"I wanted to study somewhere where academia would meet real world impact"
BSc Economics and Business student, Henry Farrelly, shares his experience of starting and running a business alongside his studies.
I wanted to bridge a gap
I believe that sustainability isn't just a trend; it's a responsibility we owe to our planet and future generations. Witnessing the growing environmental challenges around the world inspired a determination in me to bridge the gap between business and sustainability. I believe this is essential for creating a world where businesses thrive while honouring our planet's well-being. In order to bridge this gap, I wanted to study somewhere where academia would meet real-world impact. I chose Birkbeck because of the dynamic curriculum on the BSc Economics and Business course, along with the rich support the university provides for entrepreneurial endeavours.
The idea for my business was conceived and nurtured at Birkbeck
While studying, I was inspired to start Little Green Footprint, a company dedicated to helping businesses reduce their environmental impact while simultaneously enhancing their sustainability efforts. Birkbeck not only provided the initial spark but also supported our growth through entrepreneurial initiatives. The mentorship and guidance of the Pioneer Programme allowed me to hone crucial skills and was invaluable in shaping our business model and solidifying our route to market. It also allowed me access to the Santander X accelerator and community programme, which further helped get Little Green Footprint on its feet as a new business. What began as a vision has now evolved into a venture that is making a significant impact in the field of sustainability and environmentalism.
Appreciating the value of good teachers
One of the key figures in my journey with Little Green Footprint has been Dr. Fred Yamoah, a lecturer at Birkbeck. Dr Yamoah’s expertise and dedication played a pivotal role in the development of the scientific formula that underpins our work. He also tutored me in the complex topic of sustainability and introduced me to other figures working in the field. In short, my learning relationship with Dr Yamoah was instrumental in helping translate the vision of Little Green Footprint into a reality.
Living the dream and making real world impact
Little Green Footprint has come a long way from its inception at Birkbeck. The company is now making a tangible impact in promoting sustainability practices among businesses and organisations globally. Ultimately, I see Little Green Footprint as a catalyst, inspiring a paradigm shift where businesses can thrive by prioritising sustainability and by contributing meaningfully to a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come. Our journey is testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and the support of institutions like Birkbeck.