In the world of politics and business, few stories are as compelling and inspirational as that of Dolar Popat, Baron Popat. Born in Uganda and rising to prominence in the UK, his life is a testament to resilience, hard work, and dedication to public service.
Dolar Popat, Baron Popat, has become a symbol of what can be achieved through determination and the desire to bridge cultures and communities. His journey from a young refugee to a distinguished member of the House of Lords is not only inspirational but also a shining example of the opportunities available in the UK for those willing to work hard and persevere.
Early Life and Education of Dolar Popat
Dolar Popat was born on June 14, 1953, in Busolwe, Uganda, and was raised in Tororo. His early years were marked by the vibrant yet challenging environment of a country on the cusp of significant political changes. At the age of 17, he arrived in the UK, just a year before the expulsion of Indians from Uganda in 1972.
This move was the beginning of a challenging yet rewarding journey. Popat sponsored himself through night school at Kilburn Polytechnic by working various jobs, including as a dishwasher, waiter, and grill chef at a Wimpy burger bar on Kilburn High Road. These humble beginnings laid the foundation for his future success.
Despite the hardships, Popat’s dedication to his education never wavered. In 1977, he qualified as an Affiliate of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), a significant milestone that set the stage for his future endeavors in business and politics.
His qualification in accounting and finance allowed him to practice in business and corporate finance, a field where he would later make significant contributions.
Career Achievements
Dolar Popat’s career is a testament to his versatility and business acumen. After completing his studies, he held several positions, including trainee accountant at Rockware Glass and UDT Finance (Barclays). His expertise in accounting and finance led him to specialize in business and corporate finance, where he made a significant impact.
In the late 1980s, Popat diversified into the healthcare sector, recognizing the growing demand for quality healthcare services. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to further expand into the hospitality sector in the late 1990s, securing a master franchise with the Intercontinental Hotels Group for Express by Holiday Inn in the UK. This diversification not only showcased his business acumen but also his ability to identify and capitalize on emerging market trends.
Political Journey
Dolar Popat’s foray into politics was driven by his commitment to community cohesion and the importance of reconciling and uniting different cultures under the UK’s democratic process.
Before his elevation to the House of Lords, Popat was an active supporter of the Conservative Party, serving as a party adviser and helping to engage the British Indian community with the Thatcher, Major, and Cameron governments.
In July 2010, Popat became the first Gujarati to represent the Conservative Party in the House of Lords. His elevation to the peerage was a recognition of his services to small and medium-sized businesses and the wider community. As a life peer, he took the title Baron Popat of Harrow, reflecting the borough where his parents settled upon arriving in the UK.
During his tenure, Popat served as a Minister of the Crown at the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills, and the Department for Transport. He was also appointed Lord-in-Waiting, carrying out the duties of a party whip.
His contributions to the House of Lords were significant, including his maiden speech on economic growth and his efforts to establish a Select Committee to examine ways the government could support SMEs in exporting.
Trade Envoy and International Contributions
In January 2016, Dolar Popat was appointed as the Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Rwanda and Uganda, his home country. His role was later expanded to include the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In this capacity, Popat has been instrumental in fostering bilateral trade between the UK and these emerging markets. His efforts have opened up remarkable trade and investment opportunities for UK businesses, particularly in sectors like horticulture and agritech.
Popat’s work as a trade envoy underscores his commitment to leveraging his unique background and expertise to benefit both the UK and his countries of origin. His leadership in this role has been marked by several successful delegations and initiatives that have strengthened economic ties and created new opportunities for businesses on both sides.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Dolar Popat’s personal life is as rich and inspiring as his professional career. A devout Hindu, he follows the teachings of Morari Bapu, whom he regards as a mentor and spiritual guide. Popat married Sandhya (now Lady Popat) on July 19, 1980, and they have three sons together. He is multilingual, speaking Gujarati, Hindi, and Swahili, and is an ardent supporter of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.
Beyond his professional achievements, Popat is deeply involved in charitable activities. He is on the board of St Luke’s Hospice in Harrow and runs his own charitable foundation, the Lord Dolar Popat Foundation, which supports medical and educational institutions. His philanthropic efforts reflect his belief in giving back to the community and helping those in need.
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