100 business leaders will attend an event in Liverpool to hear a speech by Chris Lubbe, former bodyguard to Nelson Mandela. Tony McDonough reports

Around 100 business leaders will attend an event in Liverpool on Thursday where they will hear a speech by former bodyguard to Nelson Mandela, Chris Lubbe.

Organised by the Business & IP Centre (BIPC) Liverpool, the networking lunch at the Racquet Club in Chapel Street coincides with the Liverpool Against Racism Festival, organised by Liverpool Mayor Joanne Anderson.

Mr Lubbe was also a close friend of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and played a key role in the post-apartheid negotiations in South Africa which led to the country’s new constitution. He has survived prison, torture and death threats.

Sonia Bassey, Chair of Mandela8, will be welcoming Chris Lubbe. She said: “This week’s fantastic Liverpool Against Racism programme has put our city on a global platform to discuss the ongoing challenge of racism and solutions showcasing world class music and other cultural events.

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“It has also staged stimulating and thought-provoking debate and brought communities and individuals together uniting everyone in our bid to tackle prejudice. Chris Lubbe’s presence here during the Liverpool Against Racism Festival is highly significant and deeply appreciated.”

BIPC Liverpool is located on the first floor of Central Library and is part of the Liverpool Libraries and Information Services. BIPCs are part of a national network led by the British Library in London. They provide resources and advice for start-up and growing businesses particularly around IP and the protection and commercialisation of new ideas.

It has helped more than 5,000 entrepreneurs since it was set up in 2015. Geraldine Fuller of BIPC Liverpool said: “We are committed to supporting anyone with an idea or existing business and have a fantastic range of resources to help people.

“We run a rich programme of events designed to allow people to network, learn and improve their business skills. As part of this, Chris Lubbe will be sharing his extraordinary life story with the City’s business community.

“It’s not often a speaker encompasses themes around leadership, adversity, diversity, courage and hope all in one session. This is a rare and important opportunity for people to be inspired in all sorts of ways that will support them on their business journey.”