Success Story: Dobrila Brice
By Kunal Chan Mehta | Article Date: 3 June 2016
Dobrila Brice Entrepreneur Extraordinaire
At LSST, we like to encourage an entrepreneurial spirit – highlighted by our career focused courses and annual Dragons’ Den style competition. Business Studies student Dobrila Brice, better known as DJ Diva Dee to our students, is the perfect example of someone who captures the essence of building and maintaining an entrepreneurial flair. Currently enrolled on our BA (Hons) Business Studies (Top-up) programme, after successfully completing the HND in Business Management at LSST, Dobrila’s venture into the industry was inspired by her passion for hair and music.
Having attained qualifications in Hairdressing and Theatrical Media & Special Effects Makeup; lectured at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL); spun tracks at popular venues across London, Miami and France; and worked with Grammy Award winner Estelle, Dobrila realised that enrolling on a business course would elevate her career.
“I want to be successful, but business is hard and I refuse to fail,” she said. “I knew that the HND in Business would be beneficial for my future career.”
Nearing the end of her business degree and also completing a term as the LSST Students’ Union Coordinator, Dobrila expresses that her experience at the college has been a positive one.
“I know my strengths and weaknesses, and how to overcome situations and use my talents to my advantage,” she adds. “The whole course was relevant to my life as I am the business, I am the brand.
“I have a wider vocabulary and am ready to speak as an MC on the radio, as well as DJing. Previously I was shy to do so, but now I know I can. I have Instagram followers like Kenny Dope, met big DJs like Dennis Ferrer, DJ Sneak, David Rodigan and Beenie Man; this gives me the confidence to continue following my dreams. My writing has improved significantly, thus improving my confidence to take on the various roles I have.”
Dobrila further explains why LSST was the right choice for her.
“The lecturers at LSST have been great in supporting myself and other students. I have met fellow students who are just amazing. Activities such as LSST’s version of Dragons’ Den allow students to submit their business ideas in exchange for royalties, a share of £1,000. I was the first to submit my business idea and won £400, a boost that motivated and increased my confidence.
“I have further developed my entrepreneurial skills and look forward to starting my Diva Hair & Make-Up Boutique business. I have learned so much in the past three years from LSST that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”
For our current and prospective students, Dobrila advises:
Complete the course fully within the deadline given. The course you have chosen will benefit you in the future.
Dedicate time and accumulate the knowledge from the lectures and read books on the subjects. It’s your life so aim high.
You are responsible for your success at LSST – use the resources available, stay updated and keep up with assignments.
“With responsibilities as parents or juggling work with studying, we all have busy lives,” she said. “But studying at LSST is a positive choice that you have made for yourself. Enjoy it! Leave with a Distinction in your HND, further your studies and do the BA (Hons). Life is what you make it. Dream, believe and achieve! I do everyday.”