By: John Martin St. Valery, an EO U.A.E. member, a Special to Overdrive
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
JS: Despite having quite a posh name and speaking the Queen’s English, people may be surprised to learn that I grew up in a family with very little money. Both of my parents described themselves as fallen aristocrats, but with no money! This was the root of my determination to succeed and restore the family name and fortune.
In your opinion, what are some key characteristics every entrepreneur should have?
JS: They’ve got to have absolute belief or conviction. It is no good just to hope to succeed. You must truly believe that you will. A few knocks and failures along the way are pretty essential, too. And energy— a lazy entrepreneur is not an entrepreneur!