Zia Yusuf is rapidly gaining popularity in both the business and political spheres of the UK which is a fascinating figure to watch. Born to Sri Lankan immigrants, Yusuf’s journey from a successful entrepreneur to a political influencer backing Nigel Farage’s Reform UK has been one marked by bold decisions and a willingness to challenge norms.
Zia Yusuf’s Early Life and Background
He was born in Scotland to parents who had immigrated to the UK in the 1980s, Zia Yusuf’s upbringing in a traditional Asian household laid the foundation for his work ethic and values. His parents both worked for the NHS, and despite the challenges they faced, Yusuf excelled in his education, attending the prestigious Hampton School in Middlesex on a 50% scholarship. His journey into the world of high finance and entrepreneurship would begin after completing his studies at the London School of Economics.
Rise of Velocity Black
Yusuf’s strike into the business world saw him initially thrive as an investment banker at Goldman Sachs, a career path many dream of. However, a crucial moment in his life occurred when one of his colleagues, a senior banker, collapsed after a promotion, overwhelmed by the pressures of the job. This event made Yusuf reassess his career priorities, ultimately prompting him to quit his lucrative job to start his own venture, Velocity Black, with his business partner Alex Macdonald.
Velocity Black is a luxury concierge app aimed at the ultra-wealthy, quickly gained success. With features that allowed members to book exclusive experiences, from dining at top restaurants to renting private jets and even swimming with orca whales, the app became a hit among celebrities like Rita Ora and Ellie Goulding. Memberships for Velocity Black were exclusive, costing around £2,400 per year, with users spending thousands on experiences. The success of this business venture earned Yusuf significant financial rewards and widespread recognition in the business world.
In 2021, Yusuf and Macdonald sold Velocity Black to Capital One for a reported £235 million, personally making around £32 million from the sale. This financial success enabled Yusuf to pursue new ventures and, most significantly, engage in political activities.
Political Shift: From Conservative Voter to Reform UK Supporter
Zia Yusuf had been a long-time supporter of the Conservative Party. However, over time, his dissatisfaction with the political landscape in the UK grew. He eventually shifted his support to Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, whom he had met years earlier at a social event. Yusuf became disillusioned with what he saw as the Conservative Party’s inability to “credibly govern” under Rishi Sunak’s leadership and felt that only a party like Reform UK could bring about the bold changes he believed Britain needed.
Yusuf’s first foray into political activism came in 2023, when he began publicly supporting Nigel Farage’s campaign. His donations to the party, reportedly amounting to six figures, made headlines, positioning him as a key player in Reform UK’s push for political influence. His speeches, especially those on restoring British values and addressing immigration, garnered significant attention, with some insiders even suggesting that he could be a future leader of the party.
Controversies and Public Reactions
Yusuf’s rise in the political scene has not been without controversy. His appointment as chairman of Reform UK was met with mixed reactions. While some welcomed his energy and financial support, others expressed concerns over his background as a Muslim immigrant. Reform UK, a party traditionally associated with strong anti-immigration rhetoric, faced criticism from certain factions of its base who opposed the idea of a Muslim chairman leading the party. However, Yusuf has stood firm in his position, stating that his heritage and his success as a British Muslim only strengthen his commitment to British values.
Yusuf has also faced accusations of Islamophobia within Reform UK, with some members of the party making inflammatory remarks about Islam. Despite these challenges, Yusuf has defended his beliefs, arguing that his focus is on securing British borders and maintaining British values, not attacking any specific religious group. His stance has resonated with many who share concerns about immigration and the state of national security in the UK.
Vision for Reform UK
As chairman of Reform UK, Zia Yusuf has been vocal about his desire to “professionalise” the party. He believes that the party has the potential to become a serious political force, especially in the wake of growing dissatisfaction with both the Conservative and Labour parties. In his speeches, he often criticises Labour for what he describes as the sowing of division within British society, while also emphasising the need for a strong and secure Britain.
Yusuf’s message focuses on restoring pride in British heritage while ensuring that immigrants who come to the UK legally have the opportunity to contribute positively to society. His own experiences, both as the child of immigrants and as a successful entrepreneur, give him a unique perspective on the issues facing the country today.
The Road Ahead
Zia Yusuf’s future in British politics seems bright, especially as Reform UK continues to build its profile. His financial contributions, coupled with his charisma and ability to connect with a wide audience, make him a formidable figure in the political landscape. While he faces challenges; both from within his party and from critics outside of it, his commitment to his beliefs and his vision for Britain’s future remain steadfast.
