If you’re a tech entrepreneur, be it aspiring, scaling or late stage, we have a programme for you. See here...
Supporting climate tech founders
Empowering underrepresented tech founders
Growing late-stage ventures, to IPO and beyond
Powering the UK's most ambitious Series A startups
Championing disabled founders and entrepreneurs innovating around disability
Our previous Rising Stars competition has evolved into two distinct UK early-stage competitions, designed to spotlight the best emerging startups.
Where the UK's most ambitious founders win an opportunity for investment that defines their next chapter
Where early-stage UK startups compete for their share of £2M
Where immigrant founders building in the UK win the backing, spotlight, and momentum that defines their next chapter.
Work, Live, Thrive in the UK
Supporting global talent to work live and thrive in UK tech through our various support services
Discover the steps to apply and begin your journey
Gain access to a global talent alumni network to support your journey
Showcasing success stories from our Global Talent Visa Ambassadors
Connecting the world’s brightest minds to UK AI opportunities
Connecting the world’s brightest minds to UK Quantum opportunities
The Global Talent Visa Ambassadors are a group of exceptional tech professionals who have successfully navigated the Global Talent Visa process.They represent a diverse range of digital technology fields, including AI, cybersecurity, fintech, SaaS, health tech, and more – each bringing their expertise, innovation, and global perspectives to the UK’s tech ecosystem.
Through their journeys, our ambassadors serve as mentors, role models, and advocates for aspiring Global Talent Visa applicants. They share firsthand insights, guidance, and encouragement to help others take their next big step towards a career in the UK.
On this page, you’ll find inspiring success stories from our ambassadors, detailing their experiences, challenges, and wins. If you’re considering applying for the Global Talent Visa, these stories will give you a glimpse into the real opportunities that await.
Looking for guidance? If a particular ambassador’s journey resonates with you, whether due to your industry, background, or personal experience, you can reach out to them directly via our Ambassador Contact Form.
Discover case studies highlighting entrepreneurs, business leaders, and professionals with expertise in areas such as product management, marketing, finance, and operations. Gain insights into their entrepreneurial journeys, leadership capabilities, and strategic vision for driving business growth and innovation.
MeatFreed
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ZEDI Inc
Scry AI
Hub21 Learning UK Limited
TrueLayer
Cercli
Bumble
Nationality: USA University: University of Michigan UK location: Manchester Sector: Sustainability, advertising/marketing tech Year Visa Granted: 2023
Why the UK? I chose the UK for the next stage of my career due to its vibrant digital technology sector and Europe’s leading startup ecosystem, aligning perfectly with my background in technology startups and my commitment to making a positive impact through innovation. The UK’s focus on impact tech, supportive ecosystem, and diverse communities offer an ideal environment to further my entrepreneurial ambitions and contribute my operational expertise. By strategically moving to Manchester, a hub for innovation, I aim to collaborate with leading institutions and passionate talent to drive meaningful change and create new markets for ventures including my startup, MeatFreed.
Career highlights before you got your visa? Before securing my Tech Nation Visa, my career was distinguished by achievements in digital technology entrepreneurship and operational leadership. Commencing as a management consultant at IBM Global Business Services, I developed expertise in defining business processes for startups. Transitioning into entrepreneurship, I co-founded fintech ventures such as Umati Capital and Komo Capital, driving growth and operational excellence. As CEO of MeatFreed, I spearheaded product development and forged strategic partnerships to advance our mission of promoting plant-based diets. These experiences, coupled with my dedication to fostering diverse tech communities, laid the groundwork for my successful application for the Tech Nation Visa.
Advice for applicants? My advice would be to showcase not only your technical skills but also your passion for making a positive impact through innovation, highlighting tangible examples of your contributions to the tech ecosystem and your commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive communities within the sector.
Nationality: Nigeria University: Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria – BSC Biochemistry UK location: Birmingham Sector: Growth, Marketing and HRTech Year Visa Granted: 2023
Why the UK? As a founder of tech startups, I know that a successful business requires more than just a great idea. A stable political environment, supportive government initiatives for tech businesses, well-developed financial markets, access to capital, excellent digital infrastructure, including reliable internet connectivity and availability of top-quality talent are all crucial factors for success. Fortunately, the UK offers all of these essential elements, making it an ideal location for tech startups to thrive and that’s why I choose to move to the UK.
Career highlights before you got your visa? Founded Zedi Inc in Africa in 2022, profitable by Month 2. Started building the MVP for SendMercury. Launched ‘HireFoster by Zedi’ in 2023 Named one of Top Ten Growth Marketers in Nigeria in 2023
Advice for applicants? Read and follow the instructions carefully, it’s easier than you think. Ensure to put the right information together. As long as there are no stories and you are consistently currently putting your best foot forward in your career, there is a high and increased chance that you will get in. The opportunities abound here for you to take advantage of.
Nationality: Indian University: Nyenrode Business Universiteit, The Netherlands UK location: London Sector: Artificial Intelligence & Enterprise Applications Year Visa Granted: 2020
Why the UK? The UK had the ideal mix of a startup focused economy and a mature, democratic, safe and accepting society.
Career highlights before you got your visa? Prior to receiving my TechNation Visa my last role was Co-Founder, Chief Product & Enterprise Officer at an AdTech startup that went on to IPO in 2019 [NSE India]. I had also built two startups, that were both acquired, in the Mobile Advertising & Offline-to-Online Ecommerce space, respectively.
Advice for applicants? The Tech Nation Visa is one of the most advanced Visa programs anywhere in the world. I could argue it is the best run exceptional talent program globally. Its benefits are simply unmatched. If you are a technologist or even a business background individual working in tech and startups I would seriously consider applying for the Visa. One hat tip while doing so: You can easily do it yourself without needing an immigration advisor.
Nationality: Turkish University: Middle East Technical University UK location: London Sector: EdTech Year Visa Granted: 2021
Why the UK? I chose the UK for the next stage of my career for several reasons. The UK is a global leader in technology investments, offering numerous opportunities for growth and innovation. Also,it is renowned for its diversity, attracting talented individuals from various nations. This creates a vibrant and inclusive culture, fostering creativity and collaboration. Additionally, as I am proficient in Turkish and English, living and conducting business in an English-speaking country is a significant advantage for me. This ensures seamless communication and a smoother integration into both professional and social environments.
Career highlights before you got your visa? – Founded Hub21 Learning. – Achieved 1st place in the Boost Female Founders Acceleration by UNDP. – Led Turkey’s leading crowdfunding platform. – Mentored early-stage tech startups, with a focus on social entrepreneurs, both voluntarily and professionally.
Advice for applicants? The name “exceptional” might make you hesitant to apply, as it did for me. I often thought, “I am not that much of an exception.” Please don’t doubt yourself. If you believe you meet the requirements, go for it. Take your time preparing your application, and be authentic and sincere while following the guidelines. Listen to legal advisors, but remember that everyone is unique—make sure to showcase your individuality to the assessors.
Nationality: Indian University: London Business School, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Birla Institute of Technology UK location: London Sector: FinTech Year Visa Granted: 2023
Why the UK? I came here for my MBA at London Business School and immediately after that joined TrueLayer – an exciting startup in the Open Banking space. UK is a leader in the FinTech space and I appreciate the opportunity to have an outsized impact on the way people pay through innovative companies like TrueLayer.
Career highlights before you got your visa? I was at TrueLayer for 2 years on Graduate visa. Before that I was in the US for nearly 10 years. At Microsoft, I’ve built a highly scalable speech analytics platform that powered Speech to Text and Text to Speech products across the Microsoft spectrum – Azure, XboX, Windows, etc. At eBay I built fraud detection products that saved $3 million+ in losses for the company. I also volunteered as a high school computer teacher for 5 years.
Advice for applicants? It isn’t easy but don’t get overwhelmed by the enormity of the task at hand. It took me 6+ months to gather all the required documents. Take your time in gathering the evidences, talk to someone you trust and get that free 30-minute consultation with the Tech Nation partner lawyer. It could give you new ideas for evidences. Also, the imposter syndrome is very real, I still have it – fight your doubts and put in an application.
Nationality: Palestinian-American University: INSEAD UK location: London Sector: Software Year Visa Granted: 2022
Why the UK? I’ve been connected to the UK for at least a decade. There’s a great deal of overlap between the UK and MENA ecosystems with respect to talent, investors, and I have many former classmates and colleagues here so I already had a base that made sense from a personal and professional perspective. I see the exceptional talent pool and the country’s geographic placement between the US and Asia as differentiators that will continue to support the growth of the local tech ecosystem.
Career highlights before you got your visa? I’m currently managing product and operations at a seed stage startup called Cercli. We’re building the employee management and payroll platform for the Middle East and North Africa. Before this, I was privileged enough to have been part of the team at Careem, the mobility and food delivery platform of the Middle East. During my time there I launched the first large-scale bike sharing scheme in the region with 1,000 bikes across 100 stations and led a team managing critical workstreams to support Careem’s $3.14B acquisition by Uber in 2020. I also spent time as a venture investor across the region focusing on companies operating in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan.
I also serve on the Advisory Board of Manara, a YC-backed company helping exceptional tech talent in the Middle East and North Africa find jobs with top-tier global tech companies, with a focus on hiring talent in Palestine and women.
Advice for applicants? The process has become increasingly competitive over the years. Make it clear in your application what you’ll bring to the table to add value to the local ecosystem.
Nationality: Indian University: Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University UK location: London Sector: Software Apps Year Visa Granted: 2023
Why the UK? Having worked in product-led companies across India and the US, I was looking to build expertise in Europe. The UK was the perfect hub, offering access to global tech companies along with a thriving startup ecosystem. With its strong technological infrastructure, leadership in fintech innovation, and a vibrant international community, the UK presented a myriad of interesting career opportunities for me. Especially as a marketer, I was excited by the challenge to learn about the customers, cultural insights and best in class business growth strategies in the UK and Europe. Moving here proved to be the best decision for my career.
Career highlights before you got your visa? ● Led significant growth for leading consumer tech companies global impact. Experience in scaling growth stage businesses such as Uber and Bumble in the run up to successful IPOs ● Recognised as Top 100 Product Marketing Influencers globally in 2020 by PMA Alliance ● Established international marketing leader with the tech community, presenting keynotes at conferences, hosting expert office hours for startups across India, Middle East and the UK
Advice for applicants? I know applying for the Global Talent visa can feel quite intimidating, however, if you actually read the guide and breakdown the requirements you’ll realise it is one of the most straightforward visa processes out there. It took me a year from the time I learnt about the visa to actually gathering the courage to apply and looking back I should've just done it a lot sooner. It’s human to get overwhelmed so I would suggest connecting with people in your industry/role who have successfully received the visa – it is the best way to learn from their personal experience and assess your profile. If you don’t feel you’re ready yet, take time to build your experience so that you can eventually meet the requirements and apply.
Nationality: Hong Kong University: The Chinese University of Hong Kong UK location: London Sector: Enterprise Software & Cloud Computing Year Visa Granted: 2020
Why the UK? There were several compelling reasons for choosing the UK as the next step in my career. Firstly, London’s status as a global hub attracts a wealth of talent from diverse backgrounds, fostering a truly international environment. Secondly, the UK’s central time zone bridges the gap between the Americas, Europe, and Asia, allowing for seamless collaboration across these key markets. The UK’s thriving tech scene boasts a deep pool of expertise in cloud computing and AI, areas I’m particularly passionate about. Furthermore, the country’s strong research and engineering culture, coupled with its progressive approach to FinTech and HealthTech, creates a fertile ground for innovation. In my view, the UK digital sector is particularly dynamic, especially post-pandemic. Industries across the board are embracing new ideas and actively seeking solutions that leverage cutting-edge cloud and AI technologies responsibly and ethically. While there’s a rich history to be preserved, the UK’s willingness to embrace digital transformation presents a wealth of exciting opportunities, and I’m eager to be a part of it.
Career highlights before you got your visa? In a previous role at Microsoft before I move to the UK, I had the good fortune to be the Global Cloud Solution Architect for the financial industry. There, I led HSBC group’s global cloud adoption, focusing on driving digital innovation. One project I’m particularly proud of is migrating HSBC PayMe to the Azure Cloud. This was the first banking app in Hong Kong to be hosted in public cloud, navigating all the regulatory hurdles. Not only did it empower HSBC to grow and innovate faster, but it also opened the door for other Hong Kong banks to embrace the cloud, something previously deemed impossible. It’s great to see so many banks operating with the cloud now! HSBC PayMe even received the FinTech Grand Award, a real testament to the project’s success.
Advice for applicants? Don’t be discouraged by “exceptional talent”: While the term sounds daunting, the Tech Nation Visa recognizes the value of skilled and passionate individuals like yourself. Focus on showcasing your achievements, impact, and potential to contribute to the UK’s thriving tech scene.
Tech Nation is your friend: Their official guidelines are a comprehensive resource. Read them thoroughly to understand the application process and required documentation.
Connect with the Alumni Network: We’re not immigration consultants, but we’ve all been through the process. Feel free to reach out to Tech Nation alumni ambassadors. We’re happy to share our experiences and offer any insights we can. For complex immigration advice, consider consulting a qualified professional.
Remember, it’s your story: This application is your chance to be the storyteller of your own remarkable journey. No one knows your career path and achievements better than you. Highlight your passion for technology, your drive to innovate, and how your unique skills and experiences can make a positive impact on the UK’s tech scene.
Explore case studies featuring individuals with technical expertise, ranging from software engineers and data scientists to cybersecurity specialists and AI researchers. Learn about their innovative projects, groundbreaking research, and contributions to advancing technology within their respective fields.
XModelAI
ProMake Ltd
Umed (Last company)
HCLTech University: UCL
Nationality: Chinese University: Wenzhou University UK location: London Sector: AI Year Visa Granted: 2024
Why the UK? With my background as a Global Software Operations Architect, I’ve had the opportunity to travel extensively, particularly across Europe. Over the past six years, I’ve formed deep connections in London, attracted by its vibrant and inclusive community. London is a place for everyone, where diversity thrives, and gender equality is championed. This environment, coupled with the UK’s support for small to medium-sized enterprises like my startup, XModelAI, makes it the ideal location for the next phase of my professional growth. So here I am!
Career highlights before you got your visa? – Spearheading Signify (Philips Lighting)’s entry into China’s IoT with AI. – Independently Developed the One-Click Button CI/CD Deployment System for millions of users in minutes.
Advice for applicants? Just go for it! Ignore the noises saying you’re not talented enough or you can’t do it. Thinking about it a thousand times won’t compare to actually taking that leap. So go for it, and if you encounter any setbacks along the way, just keep pushing forward. Trust me, the rewards will be beyond what you can imagine. It’s not just about getting a visa or a new identity. You’ll become part of a community with over 2,000 global talents who have your back, helping each other out.
Nationality: American UK location: London Sector: Cybersecurity and Safety Year Visa Granted: 2022
Why the UK? After a successful career in the UK previously I missed the international and diverse nature of life in the UK. Seeing the UK develop in fintech and other technology areas I knew my skills in cybersecurity and technology would be valuable. I also knew this was the right move for my family and their opportunities in the UK and EU. I saw the UK as a chance to do very different things than what I had been doing in the Bay Area in the US.
Career highlights before you got your visa? Prior to my Tech Nation Visa I spent decades in cybersecurity leadership in the US and previously in the UK. In the US I led a cyber threat intelligence company, iSIGHT Partners which was sold to FireEye in 2016. I also held leadership roles in cybersecurity for Fidelity Investments, Barclays Bank, Betfair and Bank of America.
Advice for applicants? You probably have more highlights than you think as you look at the extensive requirements. Asking for recommendation letters and hearing people describe you can really help you articulate your value and boost your confidence in the application process.
Nationality: South Africa UK location: Manchester Sector: MedTech & Life Sciences Year Visa Granted: 2020
Why the UK? I chose the UK for the next stage of my career due to its global leadership in innovation and the unique opportunities it offers in technological research and development. The UK’s robust support for cutting-edge technologies, particularly in the fields of medical and material sciences, aligns perfectly with my expertise in 3D printing, bio-scaffolding, and smart materials. The environment here fosters collaboration between entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry leaders, facilitating advancements that are not only pioneering but also have a substantial impact on society. Being granted the Tier 1 Exceptional Talent Visa is a testament to the UK’s commitment to supporting global talents who aspire to drive significant technological and medical advancements. This, coupled with the support from the UK’s Department of International Trade and other departments, assures me of the right infrastructure and network necessary to continue my mission to revolutionize the disability and health sectors on a global scale.
Career highlights before you got your visa? Before receiving the Tech Nation Visa, my career was marked by groundbreaking advancements in medical technology and innovative applications of advanced materials. A key highlight was leading the development and successful execution of the world’s first 3D printed inner ear transplant, a landmark achievement that positioned us at the forefront of surgical innovation globally.
Advice for applicants? For future Tech Nation Visa applicants, I would advise focusing on three key areas:
Document Your Impact: Clearly demonstrate how your work has had a significant and unique impact on your field. Use data, awards, and recognitions to substantiate your contributions and innovations.
Build a Robust Network: Engage with the UK tech community even before your move. Participating in forums, online discussions, and international conferences can help you build connections that will support your application and future endeavours in the UK.
Show Commitment to Growth: Illustrate not only what you have achieved but also how you plan to contribute to the UK’s tech sector. Show your willingness to be an active participant in furthering the industry’s development, including mentoring others, fostering innovation, and driving technological advancements.
Nationality: Nigerian UK location: London Sector: HealthTech Year Visa Granted: 2022
Why the UK? I chose the UK for its vibrant tech ecosystem, diverse opportunities, and progressive policies supporting innovation and entrepreneurship, providing an ideal environment for advancing my career in frontend development and product management.
Career highlights before you got your visa? Before obtaining my Tech Nation Visa, I contributed to the development and launch of innovative products, including the Bantu pay wallet and Timbuktu exchange at the Bantu Blockchain Foundation, collaborated with cross-functional teams to improve user engagement and accessibility at Coursera, and played a key role in building Jitjatjo’s human-powered contingent labour platform, leveraging AI and empathic intelligence to match businesses with talent. Throughout these experiences, I seamlessly integrated my expertise in frontend development and product management, driving impactful projects across diverse industries and actively contributing to the advancement of the tech ecosystem.
Advice for applicants? My advice to future Tech Nation Visa applicants is to showcase not only your technical skills but also your passion for innovation, your contributions to the tech community, and your potential to drive positive change in the UK tech ecosystem.
Nationality: India UK Location: London Company: JPMorgan Chase & Co. Role: Director of Artificial Intelligence Industry: Finance Year Moved to UK / Visa Granted: 2018 / 2022
Why the UK? Microsoft wanted a product manager who was capable of launching a computer vision product and willing to move to London. Back then, apart from DeepMind, there weren’t many big AI companies in the UK. I saw the opportunity to build AI expertise in the UK and help grow the industry here. The UK is also so forward-thinking in climate and sustainability. Plus, London is an eclectic mix of technology, finance, and food – there’s a vegan menu at every restaurant!
UK Career Highlights I launched Microsoft’s first B2C computer vision product on a mobile phone, SwiftKey, which attracted around three million users and maintained a 4.3 rating on the app store for over 400 days! At JPMorgan, we’re focused on research for AI innovations that are several years out to maintain the edge we have in the industry. I lead on synthetic data and LLM products. I’m publishing my first research-level paper and filing a patent application on my research. I also advise a startup using AI simulations and I’m a trustee of the Darbar Arts Culture Heritage Trust, which makes Indian classical art more accessible globally.
Advice For Global Talent Keep calm and carry on! This attitude of putting your head down, doing your work, and carrying on has been so important for me. I also live more frugally in the UK than I did in the US, and I’m more conscious of my environmental impact. Have a mindset of living sustainably within your means. The UK cares deeply about climate change and sustainability, so align to that mindset.
What Can the UK Do More? I like the fact that the UK gives us research grants, because you need an avenue for people to go and experiment, but I don’t like that there are a lot of strings attached. The UK could further support policies to drive more innovation and maintain its competitive edge. The UK also leads in climate tech, but must enable more companies to make sustainable changes happen faster. Talk more about successes locally and globally to inspire others.
Future Plans? I just got my British citizenship! There’s so much to do here, I’m creating a lot of impact, and I plan to stay in the UK and contribute to the sustainable development of AI. I love creating things from zero and, ultimately, I want to be an entrepreneur when the timing is right. For now, I’m living every day in the present and building skills so I can do better in the future.
