Guest lecturers deliver their session to a class full of Business Management students. Photo: FSB Sheffield.
By Tanhim Shamit, Marketing Coordinator, FSB Sheffield | Article Date: 13/05/2026
FSB Sheffield welcomes Solomon Soja and Francesca Allen this week as part of a brand-new guest speaker programme led by Senior Lecturer in Business, Dr Kiefer Lee. This initiative introduces a curated series of live sessions featuring industry leaders, business professionals, entrepreneurs and subject experts. It aims to inspire students through deep dive discussions that go beyond traditional lectures, offering conversations, question and answer sessions and real-world case studies that strengthen student employability and enhance the curriculum.
The series commenced with Solomon Soja, co-founder of AI sales automation platform Mavera.AI, who delivered an impactful session on “How ethical AI will create more jobs, not replace them”. Having begun his career in the United Kingdom telecoms industry, where he helped businesses convert attention into revenue through digital and automated systems, Solomon now focuses on building production grade conversational AI that performs in real world environments. Through Mavera AI, he develops intelligent systems that understand intent, manage long term memory and integrate directly into business workflows, ensuring conversations lead to meaningful outcomes.
Students gained valuable insight into what a typical business week looks like for Solomon. They explored the skills needed for the future of business, reflected on common industry challenges and began to understand how personal value connects to career growth. The session also highlighted key leadership qualities that will support them as they prepare to embark on their individual journeys.
In the same week, FSB Sheffield welcomed Francesca Allen, a Sheffield based fashion stylist and small business owner, who delivered an engaging session on building a brand through social media and running a business.
Francesca shared her journey from working with high street brands to launching her own styling business after studying at the London College of Style. As a business owner, she gave students a clear and honest look into her day-to-day responsibilities, from managing clients and bookings to delivering styling services and growing her brand.
A key highlight was her approach to social media marketing. She shared real examples of what worked and what did not, including a short video that reached over 500,000 views in just 20 minutes of work, alongside more time intensive content that failed to gain traction. This gave students a practical understanding of testing ideas, staying consistent and learning from results.
Beyond business, Francesca spoke about her mission to help women feel confident in themselves, showing how purpose and commercial success can go hand in hand. Her relatable and honest approach left a strong impression on students.
This new guest lecture series marks an exciting step forward for FSB Sheffield, bringing industry closer to the classroom. By connecting students with real world voices and experiences, the programme empowers them to think bigger, act with confidence and shape their own future with purpose.
Students are encouraged to look out for upcoming guest lectures at FSB Sheffield. If you know a business owner or industry leader who would be a great fit for this series, you can put them forward by emailing holly.hammond@fairfield.ac.
