Roy Ledgister: The Millionaire Mentor who didn't get the memo

The common view is that business people are just... different. They have things figured out. They're in an exclusive world of VCs and angels. Or are they? One man has made it his mission to break down barriers and show that anyone can become an entrepreneur.

Roy Ledgister, founder of proptech investment firm Convivia Group, grew up in Shepherd's Bush and relied on free schools in his youth. He started a car wash business at 14 and, after doing his law degree, became the UK's youngest senior partner at the tender age of 24. After leaving the Bar, Roy was part of the team that created Caridon Holdings LLP and then went on to found Convivia Group.

Despite his success, Roy maintains that he "never got the memo" that he shouldn't be able to achieve so much from his humble beginnings. Instead, he says that that's the very reason for his drive and success and he's keen to spread the word to people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

In this exclusive interview, we discuss procrastination, "not getting the memo", turning perceived weaknesses into strengths and much more.

Here's what we discussed:

• Can you tell us about your journey to founding Convivia? (00:56)
• Is there something in particular that makes people from disadvantaged backgrounds better entrepreneurs? (09:51)
• What are some of the barriers that young disadvantaged people face in getting into the business? (12:15)
• Is there a way to get people from more diverse backgrounds into business and positions of power to show younger generations that this can be achieved? (15:59)
• How can procrastination be debilitating? (19:34)
• Do you think a positive, resilient mindset is something you're born with or can it be taught? (30:07)
• What is the power of being altruistic and giving back as a successful business person? (31:43)
• Answer the Internet: During a typical work day, are lawyers always busy? (36:30)
• What makes a great business leader? (38:06)

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