A Family Affair
Deborah was born in 1959 in Taunton, Somerset, England. Her father was a civil servant, and her mother was a teacher. She grew up in a close-knit family with two sisters and a brother. As a child, Deborah was always curious and eager to learn. She loved reading and spending time outdoors.
A Business Venture
When Deborah was 19, she started her first business, a glass-cutting and engraving company. She had always been fascinated by glass, and she saw an opportunity to turn her passion into a career. With hard work and dedication, Deborah built her business from the ground up. She started by selling her products at local craft fairs and markets. Over time, she expanded her business to include a thriving online store.
The Dragons' Den
In 2006, Deborah joined the panel of the popular BBC show "Dragons' Den." The show features entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas to a panel of investors, known as "Dragons." Deborah quickly became a fan favorite, known for her sharp wit and keen eye for business potential. She has invested in a wide range of businesses, from a sustainable cleaning company to a high-tech medical device. Her investments have helped countless entrepreneurs turn their dreams into reality.
A Multifaceted Entrepreneur
Deborah is not just a successful businesswoman; she is also an author, a TV personality, and a philanthropist. She has written several books about business, including "The Woman Who Turned £10 into a £5 Million Business" and "The Businesswoman's Bible." She has also hosted several TV shows, including "The Big Green Money Show" and "Deborah Meaden's Pitches to Riches."
Deborah is passionate about giving back to the community. She is the co-founder of two charities: The Deborah Meaden Foundation, which supports entrepreneurs from disadvantaged backgrounds, and the Women's Business Council, which promotes the advancement of women in business. She is also a Patron of the Prince's Trust, a charity that helps young people get into work and training.A Role Model for Women
Deborah is a role model for women everywhere. She shows us that women can achieve anything they set their minds to, regardless of their background or circumstances. She is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and self-belief.