From humanities to starting a tech startup: How the SOAS Enterprise Programme transformed my career

BA student Ashleigh Garnett shares how the SOAS x YBB Student Enterprise Programme helped her grow as an entrepreneur and develop her tech startup, ReStart. 

Have you ever wondered how a university programme could completely transform your career? The SOAS Student Enterprise Programme did just that for me, guiding me from a humanities student to the founder of a tech startup. The YBB x SOAS Student Enterprise Programme had a profound impact on my professional life. It offered mentorship and friendship and opened unexpected doors that are still helping me to achieve my career goals. 

Why I applied to the SOAS x YBB Student Enterprise Programme

I applied to the YBB x SOAS SU Enterprise Programme because I wanted to bridge the gap between my humanities background and the tech world. As a student of Japanese and Politics, I was eager to explore how my skills could be applied in a more practical, business-oriented context. My aim was to develop a project that not only addressed a social issue but also allowed me to grow as an entrepreneur.

The application process for the SOAS x YBB Student Enterprise Programme was straightforward yet thorough. It required me to articulate my vision for ReStart and demonstrate my commitment to seeing it through. This clarity of purpose was instrumental in my acceptance into the programme, setting the foundation for a transformative experience.

The birth of ReStart

ReStart is an app dedicated to revolutionising support for homeless individuals by providing secure housing, food, and holistic support. Our pilot app is web-based, allowing users to access it from libraries and other public spaces. ReStart combines logical application with a creative approach, ensuring comprehensive support for those in need. This mission is more than just a business; it's a commitment to improving the quality of life& for those experiencing homelessness.

I wanted to bridge the gap between my humanities background and the tech world.

The inspiration for ReStart came to me at the age of 16 after an encounter with a homeless person& during my daily commute Seeing someone in such a dire situation sparked something within me. I couldn't shake off the feeling that there had to be a better way to support people who had fallen on hard times. This experience stayed with me, and soon, I realised that homelessness wasn't just a local issue but a national one that needed urgent attention.

How the SOAS x YBB Student Enterprise Programme helped me 

The SOAS x YBB Student Enterprise Programme and the SOAS Entrepreneur Society played pivotal roles in my journey. The programme's mentors, with their vast experience in various aspects of business and tech, provided invaluable advice and insights. These mentors guided me through the technical aspects of developing ReStart, bridging the gap between my humanities background and the tech-driven nature of my startup.

The relationships I built through the YBB x SOAS SU Enterprise Programme were crucial in navigating the complexities of business development. These friendships went beyond mere companionship; they were sources of support, motivation, and accountability. The SOAS Entrepreneur Society also offered a supportive community where I found peers who shared similar goals.

ReStart's development required a balance of logical application and creative solutions. The friends I made in the YBB x SOAS SU Enterprise Programme encouraged me to explore innovative approaches while maintaining a practical perspective. This blend of creativity and logic was crucial in designing an effective and accessible platform.

My career goals

I hope to use the skills I gained from the SOAS x YBB Student Enterprise Programme to further develop ReStart and expand its reach. My goal is to continue building strong, supportive communities through innovative tech solutions. I am committed to using my entrepreneurial journey to inspire others and create positive change.

The SOASxYBB Student Enterprise Programme has been a cornerstone of my growth as an aspiring entrepreneur. The friendships I have made and the accountability partners I have gained have been key to navigating the complexities of business development. These relationships have provided both the support and the challenge needed to thrive. For anyone considering joining the SOAS x YBB Student Enterprise Programme, I highly recommend it not just for professional growth but for the invaluable personal connections you will make along the way.