With support from Launch@ Salford, the University of Salford’s business incubation hub, Azeem founded Learn with ESS, a company dedicated to improving accessibility and raising awareness about disability through education, sport, and speech-based activities.

Despite being visually impaired since birth, Azeem never allowed his disability to limit his ambitions. Reflecting on his journey, he credits football for changing his life. His achievements on the pitch have been remarkable, with collaborations alongside high-profile athletes such as Harry Kane, Phil Foden, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Jude Bellingham in campaigns aimed at encouraging people with disabilities to engage in sports.

Azeem’s drive to advocate for people living with disabilities extended beyond his accomplishments in football. He founded Learn with ESS, a business that challenges societal stigmas and promotes inclusion for individuals with varying abilities. Through workshops and practical classes, the company focuses on raising awareness and improving accessibility, partnering with over 200 schools and major organisations such as Nike, the FA, and Manchester United Foundation.

Azeem’s entrepreneurial journey began during his studies at the University of Salford, where he earned a BSc (Hons) in Business Management and Sport in 2020 and an MA in Digital Business in 2021. It was during his postgraduate studies that he discovered Launch@ Salford, a platform that helped him bring his business idea from concept to reality.

Azeem said: “Launch was really where it all started for me. They supported me financially and in terms of learning what it takes to run a company. I still pop in now and again to support the new cohorts, delivering talks about the lessons I’ve learned as an entrepreneur.”

Azeem’s work with Learn with ESS has touched the lives of over 15,000 people and continues to expand. With existing partnerships with major organisations and new collaborations with Bolton-based Carrs Pasties, Hilton Hotels, and the prison service, the business is making great strides in improving accessibility for all.

Beyond his business achievements, Azeem has plans to launch a charitable foundation aimed at helping disabled children access sports. This initiative reflects his unwavering commitment to fostering inclusion and breaking down barriers.

Paul Little, Incubation Manager at Launch@ Salford, added: “It’s been a pleasure to see Azeem grow into a confident young man under the Launch programme. His business idea is born from personal experiences, and he has worked incredibly hard to make it the success that it is today. Azeem should serve as an inspiration to any budding entrepreneurs who want to make a real difference to the lives of many people through their work.”

In addition to his entrepreneurial efforts, Azeem has had an impressive football career. Since 2019, he has represented England and Great Britain in blind football at five major tournaments, including the Euros in 2019 and 2022, the World Grand Prix in 2019 and 2023, and the World Games in 2023. His sights are now set on competing at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games as part of Team GB.

Reflecting on his time at the University of Salford, Azeem said: “Salford was the best place for me to study because it gave me a sense of community, and did wonders for my confidence and independence. I’m now ready to make a lasting difference, both with Learn with ESS and the charity I have planned.”