Self-employment for underrepresented founders in South London: mentorship, markets, and making it happen
Self-employment is rising again in the UK. More than four million people are now working for themselves, up from the lows seen during the pandemic. The direction of travel is positive, and confidence to start up is returning.
We want that recovery to reach everyone. It’s why we’re here.
Our programmes are shaped by our clients. Everything we offer comes from listening closely, providing hands-on support, and understanding the real challenges you face. Our goal is to help founders -like you-unlock potential through mentoring, community, and real places to trade no matter what their background. Have you got a good business idea? We’re here to help you.
The landscape today, and how we help
- Getting started and staying in
The problem: many of the people we speak to bring strong ideas and ambition, yet lower average wealth, fewer safety nets, and uneven access to networks can slow progress.
How we help: free one to one mentoring that meets you where you are, from shaping your idea to finding your first customers and building a simple plan you can act on. - Security while you build
The problem: higher rates of unemployment and underemployment in our communities make income less predictable. When money is stop start, saving and taking business risks is harder.
How we help: beginner friendly workshops on pricing, budgeting, marketing, and time management, so you can make steady steps that strengthen your position week by week. - Access to funding and credit
The problem: only a tiny share of UK equity investment reaches Black founders, with an even smaller fraction going to Black women. On top of that, practical barriers such as thin credit histories, lack of collateral, or short trading records can make mainstream lending harder to secure.
How we help: clear signposting to fair finance options, support to prepare lender ready documents, and introductions to trusted partners. We do not give regulated financial advice. We do help our clients feel prepared and confident before they apply. - Space to trade and be seen
The problem: affordable, flexible places to test products and meet customers are hard to find. Without a platform, momentum stalls.
How we help: access to market stalls, pop ups, and meanwhile spaces across South London, so you can test offers in real time, gather feedback, and build a loyal customer base. - Community and confidence
The problem: entrepreneurship can feel lonely, especially if you do not see yourself represented.
How we help: a supportive network of peers, events, and maker markets that connect our clients with people on the same path. You learn together, collaborate, and stay motivated.
Ready to start your journey?
If you are building a business in South London and you recognise yourself in this story, we are here for you. With Tree Shepherd you can access:
- Free one to one mentoring
- Beginner friendly workshops
- Affordable market and retail space
- A supportive, inclusive network
Sign up for mentoring. Book a workshop. Or come and meet makers at our next market. Our team is ready to walk with you.
Self-employment offers freedom, dignity, and ownership. Too often, our clients are shut out of the opportunities others take for granted. At Tree Shepherd, we are changing that picture, one business at a time. With mentoring, markets, a community that has your back, and clearer paths to fair finance, you can build a business, and a legacy, that lasts.
Join us. Build your business. Shape your future.
