Leicester College celebrates as two students reach Peter Jones Academy finals

Leicester College is celebrating after two of its students reached the national Peter Jones Academy ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ finals, where they will pitch their business ideas directly to Dragons’ Den entrepreneur, Peter Jones. This is the first time that two students from Leicester College have made it through to the finals in a single year.

Yahya Sotter and Bohdan Blahitko have both reached the finals following their time on the Peter Jones Academy programme. The national competition gives students from Peter Jones Enterprise Academies across the UK the opportunity to showcase the businesses they have developed during the programme. Finalists pitch their ideas to a panel of experienced business figures, with the opportunity to gain valuable feedback and national recognition for their entrepreneurial ideas.

The winner will be announced at the Peter Jones Academy graduation ceremony on 22 October 2026.

Yahya launched his barbering business, Fullkit Studios, while studying on the programme. Having already established his business, he is now expanding into haircare products, with a particular focus on supporting men experiencing alopecia.

Finalist Yahya commented: “Being selected as a finalist for the Peter Jones Award means a lot to me. I started my business journey at just 15, so to see how far I’ve come and now be recognised for something I’ve put so much time, effort and passion into is a really proud moment. It’s given me even more motivation to keep pushing myself, growing my business and turning my ideas into something much bigger. I’m really grateful for the opportunity and excited to see where it can take me.”

Fellow finalist, Bohdan has developed a successful 3D printing business, creating a diverse range of products including sensory toys, home décor and innovative NFC key fobs that allow businesses to connect directly to their social media platforms. Bohdan is currently trading through Instagram and TikTok Shop and is also working to secure significant business contracts as he continues to grow his business.

On being named as a finalist Bohdan commented: "Being named a finalist for the Peter Jones National Entrepreneur of the Year award still doesn't feel real. I started Printify 3D from my bedroom with one printer, and now I'm building something people all across the country need and are ordering from me. Reaching the final and knowing Peter Jones himself will be judging is honestly the proudest moment of my time at Leicester College so far."

Shabir Ismail, Principal/CEO at Leicester College said: “We’re incredibly proud of Yahya and Bohdan for reaching the Peter Jones Academy finals. The programme provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the opportunity to develop their business ideas, build their confidence and gain the skills they need to turn their ambitions into successful ventures. Their achievement is a fantastic reflection of the entrepreneurial talent, creativity and ambition of Leicester College students.”

Students from Leicester College have reached the semi-finals seven times since 2015 and have made the final four times since 2019. The College has celebrated two previous winners - Cerys Andrews in 2022 and Jevean Barryclough in 2023