A Preston man has been named in TechRound’s BAME 50 Under 50 Entrepreneurs of 2020.
Lee Chambers made the list, which ranks the top 50 Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic businesses in the UK, for his work as founder of Essentialise Workplace Wellbeing.
Lee launched the business in December 2019 to provide bespoke wellbeing strategy, delivery and coaching to enterprises across the North.
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The TechRound list recognises the ability of entrepreneurs to smash social barriers while contributing to the country’s fast-growing startup scene.
Lee’s place on the list was announced after a week of judging from a panel including Linda Plant, successful entrepreneur and renowned interviewer on BBC’s The Apprentice, Rajeeb Dey, co-founder of Learnebly and Startup Britain, Kike Oniwinde, former Team GB athlete and CEO of BYP Network and Bindi Karia.
The judges commended the innovation and hard work of all the entries.
TechRound co-founder Daniel Tannenbaum said: “The BAME 50 Under 50 is set to be a game-changer, and will promote those individuals who have fought harder than most to succeed.
“As we are well aware, BAME entrepreneurs have historically been underfunded and underrepresented, and this list’s purpose is to help change the status quo.
“We want to celebrate people from all backgrounds and businesses of all sizes, and this list will be a testament to those individuals who are diversifying the UK’s startup landscape.”
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Environmental Psychologist Lee said: “It is a privilege to be recognised on a national level, alongside some of Britain’s highly respected entrepreneurs and companies.
“I’m proud of the impact that I’m making with my business and the collaborations that I’m currently taking part in.
“I want to thank my clients and colleagues for their continued efforts. I would not have made the list without the assistance and guidance of my community here in Lancashire.”
Lee has had an eventful few months, being recognised by Lancashire Business View as a finalist in the Entrepreneur of the Year and New Business of the Year categories in their Sub36 Awards for young business leaders.
He has also become the co-founder and director of Wellbeing Lancashire, an organisation with a mission to make wellbeing a top priority in the county.
Speaking about Wellbeing Lancashire, Lee said: “I am proud to be an integral part of an alliance that is aiming to align wellbeing strategy across the region.
“As a resident of Central Lancashire, I feel it is vitally important that we look to ensure the wellbeing of adults and children at this turbulent time.
“We have engaged the private, public and third sector, and already have the support of a number of significant institutions including UCLan and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership. We are here for the residents of Lancashire as we prepare for a challenging year ahead.”
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