Entrepreneur Levi Roots shares love for ‘great city of Bristol’ as he collects UWE Bristol Honorary Degree

Chef, musician and entrepreneur, Levi Roots, has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters by UWE Bristol at its summer Graduation ceremonies, recognising his commitment to future generations and the city of Bristol.

Levi Roots became an overnight success after featuring on Dragon’s Den in 2007, when his Caribbean BBQ Reggae Reggae Sauce received investment from businessmen Peter Jones and Richard Farleigh. The condiment, which Levi first created in the 1990s, quickly soared in popularity and since has been stocked in nearly every UK supermarket, with the brand expanding to soft drinks and ready meals among other products.

He is among nine individuals receiving honorary degrees at UWE Bristol’s series of graduation ceremonies held at the Bristol Beacon, in recognition of outstanding achievements in their chosen fields and significant contributions to Bristol.

Levi is the current Chair of the Board for St Pauls Carnival, but his links with Bristol were forged decades earlier when it became one of the first cities where he sold Reggae Reggae Sauce, including at St Pauls Carnival, St Nicholas Market and shops on Stapleton Road and in Clifton.

On receiving his award from UWE Bristol, Levi said: “I have always loved this great city of Bristol, it has a very special place in my heart, playing a huge role in shaping the person I have become. This city accepted me at a time when I needed support and friendship, it placed a friendly arm around me and gave me the courage to believe in myself. Bristol was the first place to show me that my dream of creating a business with Reggae Reggae Sauce was possible. I am truly grateful and humbled to be receiving this honorary degree from UWE Bristol.”

In 2013, Levi launched the School of Life Tour, a philanthropic project which sees the entrepreneur visit schools, colleges, universities and prisons every year to inspire younger generations through stories of his own personal setbacks on the road to success. Bringing together music and cooking to engage with young people, the School of Life sessions offer motivational talks that aim to give younger communities confidence and purpose.

Levi’s work with young people also extends to being an ambassador of The Prince’s Trust and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.

Professor Yvonne Beach, Pro Vice Chancellor and Head of the College of Business and Law at UWE Bristol said: “Levi’s business journey is one of perseverance and hard work. I hope the determination that he’s shown through his career and his commitment to giving back to younger generations will inspire today’s graduates as they take the next step to their career or further study.”