Web genius snares top prize

BEAMING . . . Danny collects his trophy from Imran Hakim

Dyslexia proves no barrier for dynamic Danny
A DYSLEXIC teenager who already runs his own web design company has triumphed in a major competition.

Danny Callan (18), from Lees, has worked extremely hard to be hailed Student Innovator of the Year at the Pro Manchester Innovator Challenge 2011.

Judges included I-Teddy inventor Imran Hakim, who appeared on the BBC’s popular Dragons’ Den programme.

He praised the former Saddleworth High School lad for his ability to show business acumen and innovation in four rounds of timed challenges, as well as a quick-fire question-and-answer session.

Danny studies web and game design at Oldham College, has taught himself all about search engine optimisation and even runs his own web design business, Ice Box Designs.

He said: “I was shocked to win.

“The other students were about 25 and I was the youngest — I was surrounded by older people and multi-millionaires, so it was crazy!”

Judges said the student demonstrated fantastic spark and vision.

Mr Hakim said: “Danny possesses natural business acumen — something that hasn’t been taught but is a natural way of thinking for him. He has a charming naivety which we hope will stick around.

“Crucially, he also has huge potential and scope to innovate.”

Danny, who has already designed websites for Oldham businesses, added: “I’ve had to work really hard because of my dyslexia.

“When I attend meetings and I have to give a speech, I have to memorise it as I find it hard to read my writing.

“I find the web designing like a puzzle, so it is easier for me than reading, but my dyslexia motivates me to work harder.

“I’m up until 4am most nights learning as much as I can because I want to be the best web designer in Manchester.”

James Scott, director of Enterprise & New Technologies at Oldham College, said: “Danny’s win is a fantastic achievement.

“He’s a great example of how young people are seizing opportunities to become entrepreneurs in new and emerging technologies.”

Danny’s prize is a paid start-up business course at Manchester Met University, which he starts in September.