Business leaders from across the borough were invited to a special event hosted by Blackburn and Darwen Youth Zone (B&DYZ), featuring Imran Hakim and Victoria Price.

The networking event at the Stanley House Hotel & Spa in Mellor saw managing director of Alvarez & Marsal, Victoria Price, quiz Imran Hakim, the chief executive of the Hakim Group, about his entrepreneurial journey.

Founder of B&DYZ, Andrew Graham, opened the event by welcoming attendees and speaking about the organisation’s commitment to engaging business leaders to support young people. 

Imran is a successful entrepreneur famous for his iTeddy invention showcased on BBC’s Dragon’s Den. He shared personal anecdotes and key insights from his path to success. 

His Hakim Group has its head offices in the India Mill Business Centre in Darwen.

His message to the attendees was that 'anyone can do it' and urged them to 'never fear failure', a sentiment that appeared to resonate with the audience and the members of B&DYZ. 

Imran also recognised the efforts of Bolton Lads and Girls Club, the first Youth Zone, which he believes ‘played a crucial role in shaping his teenage years’. 

Andrew Graham said: “Bringing together key business leaders from the business world to share their experiences with our community embodies the spirit of B&DYZ.

"We are passionate about motivating and connecting our youth with influential role models.”

Blackburn and Darwen Youth Zone provides services to young people aged five to 25 through two sites and community partnerships.

It operates seven days a week and aims to offer more than 20 activities each evening.