By Kunal Chan Mehta, PR Manager and Editor of FSB Focus | Article Date: 24th March 2026

There are moments in education when theory gives way to something much more powerful: the presence of someone who has not just studied success – but seized it. That moment arrived at FSB Croydon as Carina Lepore – entrepreneur, Director of Dough Bakehouse, BBC Apprentice Winner 2019 and one of South London’s most compelling business figures – stepped before students to deliver a masterclass in modern leadership (on 24 March 2026).

In her talk, Lepore traced her trajectory from a self-starting Croydon market trader to a business partner of stalwart Lord Alan Sugar. Her narrative was exacting – an exposition of decisiveness and the often-unseen demands of entrepreneurial ascent.

“Success is not simply about the idea,” Carina said. “It is about understanding people – how to influence, how to lead and how to bring others with you. That’s where real business begins.”

The defining moment of her £250,000 investment win from Lord Alan Sugar remains one of the most memorable in the programme’s history. Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-L0btuM9V5o

Her early ventures – buying and selling stock, running stalls and launching independent retail initiatives – formed the crucible in which her commercial instincts were forged. These formative experiences were later refined during her tenure at Marks & Spencer, where she developed a nuanced appreciation of leadership dynamics, learning as much from ineffective management as from exemplary practice. This duality, she explained, enabled her to cultivate a “leadership style rooted in clarity and positivity”.

At the core of her address was an examination of leadership under pressure. Drawing on her experience within the high-stakes environment of The Apprentice on BBC One, Carina outlined the importance of strategic thinking and emotional intelligence. Whether navigating the intensity of the boardroom or delivering what she described as “the biggest pitch of my life,” her approach remained fixed in preparation.

“Confidence is not something you wait for – it is something you construct,” she told students. “You build it through knowledge, through practice and through truly understanding what you are trying to say.”

Equally compelling was her emphasis on teamwork. Rejecting the myth of the solitary entrepreneur, Lepore championed a philosophy of “one team, one dream” – a model predicated on recognising individual strengths and shared ambition. Her reflections offered students a strong framework for leadership that goes beyond textbook theory.

The impact on the student body was immediate and profound. In Carina, they encountered not only a successful businesswoman but a figure whose journey – geographically, socially and professionally – mirrors their own.

Mr Mohammed Zaidi, FSB’s CEO, said: “Carina’s visit represents the very essence of what we strive to achieve at FSB: the fusion of academic rigour with real-world relevance.”

“Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, strategic thinking and self-belief. For our students – many who stand at the threshold of their own professional journeys – this was not merely inspirational – it was instructional at the highest level.”

Carina offered insight into the evolution of her business, from identifying a distinctive market proposition to scaling operations and planning future expansion, including ventures connected to BOXPARK Croydon. Her reflections illuminated the complex interplay between vision and execution – an area of resonance for FSB’s business-focused cohorts.

The Civic Mayor of Croydon, Cllr Richard Chatterjee, said: “In hosting Carina, FSB once again demonstrated its commitment to cultivating not only graduates, but leaders – individuals equipped with the intellectual acuity, practical insight, and professional confidence required to navigate an increasingly competitive global landscape.”

Kunal Chan Mehta, PR Manager and Editor of FSB Focus (l), interviews Carina (r) about the lessons she learned from Lord Alan Sugar on the BBC Apprentice show. Photo: FSB.

Mr Giedrius Zillionis, FSB’s Vice Principal, said: “Our students were truly inspired by Carina’s visit. Her journey and insights exemplify the power of enterprise and we are proud to provide our students with such meaningful opportunities to engage with real-world success stories.”

Dr Ben Abudawood, Academic Dean of FSB Croydon, said: “We were honoured to welcome Carina as a distinguished guest speaker. Her inspiring presentation left a lasting impression, encouraging our students to think ambitiously, work diligently and believe in their potential.”

“Drawing on her professional journey, she shared practical insights and real-world perspectives that inspired resilience, creativity and new aspirations for future careers.”

Felly Yusifu, a Bath Spa University accredited BA (Hons) Business and Management student and Student Union Coordinator, said: “Carina’s masterclass in leadership proved inspirational and motivational for all the students involved and her friendly demeanour made it easier for everyone to engage with her.”