From manager at 16 to hosting visits with Apple CEO Tim Cook. Now helping the next generation of leaders rise — with the tools, mindset, and confidence to lead at any level.
🏆 BBBA 2024
Black British Business Award — Sponsored by the Financial Times
"From a paper boy at 11 to shaking hands with Tim Cook."
Nuevo Ascend was not built in a business school. It was built on two decades of real operational leadership — multi-site retail at Sainsbury's and Argos, including serving as Strategic Advisor to CEO Simon Roberts on inclusion matters, and Senior Manager at Apple across Operations, CX and B2B — head of one of the largest diversity networks across the UK.
The founder became a manager at 16 years old. He went on to host visits with Apple CEO Tim Cook and interview Global Editorial Head of Hip-Hop and R&B, Ebro Darden. In 2024, he won the Black British Business Award, sponsored by the Financial Times.
Paper boy — the work ethic that never stopped.
Manager — one of the youngest in UK retail.
Senior Manager — Operations, CX, B2B. Hosted visits with Tim Cook.
Black British Business Award winner — FT sponsored.
Personal, honest coaching for managers and aspiring leaders. Confidence, promotion prep, difficult conversations and career transitions.
ExploreHalf and full-day workshops built from real experience. The First-Time Manager, Leading Diverse Teams, Executive Presence and more.
ExploreStrategic advisory for HR directors, L&D leads and CEOs. Culture audits, leadership pipeline development and employee engagement.
ExploreFor young people aged 16–25 entering leadership. The programme the founder never had — now given to every young person who deserves it.
ExploreA story that doesn't sound like anyone else on your stage. From paper boy to Tim Cook. Keynotes, panels, universities and TEDx.
ExploreBook a free 20-minute discovery call. We'll find the right programme for you or your organisation.
Book Discovery CallProfessionals preparing for their first management role or a step up into senior leadership.
Professionals from underrepresented backgrounds navigating environments that weren't built for them.
Newly promoted managers making the transition from colleague to confident leader.
HR and L&D teams investing in leadership culture, management pipelines and DEI development.
16–25 year olds entering the workforce or stepping into their first team leader role.
Leaders in customer-facing and operational environments who want to lead at the next level.
Leadership Experience Across Globally Recognised Organisations
Consumer & Luxury Category — Sponsored by the Financial Times
"Recognition that validates not just the business — but the two decades of leadership that made it possible."
Free 20-minute conversation to understand your goals and challenges.
We recommend the most suitable programme or bespoke engagement.
Coaching, workshops or consultancy delivered with honesty and experience.
Measurable change. Real progression. A leader who carries others with them.
Leon is a great coach and an inspiring leader. During his time as my manager at Apple, he was always supportive and helped me unlock my true potential. Thanks to his guidance I was able to achieve my goals. I really appreciated his ability to motivate and create a positive environment for the team.
Leon's coaching and mentorship played a huge role in my career progression. Through his leadership support, mindset coaching, and ability to bring out confidence in others, I was able to develop the skills needed to progress from a lead role into a Store Manager position at Co-op. Leon has a genuine talent for developing people and helping them see their potential. I would highly recommend his coaching to anyone looking to grow as a leader.
Leon was my manager at Apple — one of the most supportive leaders I've had the chance to work with. He was genuinely invested in my growth and helped me see potential in myself that I hadn't fully recognised yet. What really stood out was his ability to motivate the team while creating a positive and trusting environment. He leads with empathy, sets clear expectations, and brings out the best in people. I would highly recommend him.
Every great leadership journey starts with a conversation. Book your free discovery call today.