How Present Pal began
Meet Chris
In 2014 Chris was a student with dyslexia at the University of Strathclyde and realised that the results of his business degree would rely largely on his ability to present to his peers. After consulting with the university’s disability service and dyslexia experts, Chris realised that there was no direct or accessible solution for presentation anxiety. With Chris determined to ensure that his public speaking fears didn’t lead to his exclusion, he created Present Pal.
Since launching the Present Pal app in 2018 we are now supporting over 10,000 learners and presenters in Higher Education in the UK and North America. We’ve expanded quickly, in the past year our team has quadrupled from 4 to 17, welcoming a host of talented, passionate individuals to the Estendio Team, bringing with them a range of skills and ideas to equip us in our mission.
Our Values
Accessibility
Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do and we’re all about addressing pain points through simple solutions. We recognise that everyone is unique and has a different experience with learning differences and disabilities.
We want to create a level, equal playing field for everyone to get the best out of themselves and each other, and we are constantly innovating and looking for ways to do this.
Adaptability
Adaptable meets ability in our small and committed team.
In the Estendio team and we all need to get our sleeves rolled up!
This may mean being slightly out of our comfort zone or doing jobs or tasks which may not be your specialism but we take this in our stride and get the job done.
Ambition
We want a world where inclusivity is the standard, not the exception.
At the same time we’re here to become the best versions of ourselves - we are always learning and growing together to push ourselves to achieve our vision of inclusivity.
Attitude
We’re each responsible for our own actions, performance and career. We are always good neighbours to each other and put us before me.
We embrace our differences and use them to grow by staying open-minded, curious and humble. Ultimately we are collaborative at heart, accountable and ready for the journey here at Estendio!
Awards and Investors
Scottish Edge
Wildcard Edge Winner 2016 (£10,000)
Young Edge Winner 2016 (£10,000)
Edge Round 13 Winner 2018 (£50,000)
Converge Challenge
Kickstart Award Runner-up 2015 (£1,500)
Converge Challenge Runner-up 2016 (£29,000)
Scottish Enterprise
SMART Award 2016 (£138,500)
