Shezad Nawab

Shezad Nawab is a deaf British Asian multi-award-winning entrepreneur, international speaker, and author who draws powerfully on his lived experiences to champion racial equality. As the Founder of ICE Ventures, Deaf Business Services Ltd, and Global Synergy Group, Shezad is a prominent figure in the fields of investment, leadership, and global business. His personal journey as a deaf British Asian has given him a unique perspective on the systemic barriers faced by minority communities, inspiring his work as a passionate racial equality advocate. Shezad frequently speaks on topics including diversity and inclusion, overcoming adversity, inclusive leadership, accessibility in business, and the importance of cross-cultural understanding. Fluent in six sign languages, he bridges communication gaps in a way few others can, making his advocacy even more powerful.

In the early stages of his career, Shezad built his reputation by establishing and growing multiple ventures, including Deaf Business Services Ltd in 2010 and Fabsolutions in 2012. His entrepreneurial spirit, combined with an acute awareness of the challenges faced by disabled and minority individuals, drove him to found and advise numerous companies across investment and management consulting. Through roles such as Advisory Board Member at Kaleidoscope Investments and Partner at Entrepreneur Meets Investor, he has helped countless entrepreneurs launch and scale their businesses. His leadership in both the deaf and business communities has made him a role model for aspiring minority entrepreneurs globally.

Shezad’s remarkable achievements have earned him wide recognition. In 2017, he was appointed an MBE for services to business and diversity. He received the Ummul Mu’minin Khadijah Award for Excellence in Enterprise in 2018, was named Alumni of the Year 2017 for Enterprise and Innovation, and was listed among the Top 10 Most Influential Disabled People in Business in 2014. His inspiring story is documented in his acclaimed book Born Deaf to an MBE, which chronicles his journey of perseverance and triumph against societal barriers.

When Shezad speaks on racial equality, he offers much more than theory—he shares lived realities and actionable insights. His presentations address how race, disability, and economic opportunity intersect, urging organisations to rethink inclusion at every level. Clients hire Shezad because he does not merely advocate for change; he embodies it, making him an authentic, engaging, and transformative voice for racial equality and diversity in modern business.