We’re incredibly proud of our alumni continuing to reach for the sun and who, in doing so, have become hugely successful in a wide range of fields. From Old Dragons playing for England like Maia Bouchier (OD 2012), and making life-saving apps like Michael Dent (OD 2002), to our Junior Old Dragons making a difference, such as Anya Katanyutanon (OD 2021) who presented her research findings at the World Conference on Public Health (WCPH).
The latest feature in our Diversity of Dragons series highlights Tom Baker (OD 2013), whose early days of saying “yes” to every opportunity at the Dragon School laid the foundation for a purpose-driven path. From winning a national athletics title with relentless teamwork to being inspired by a School musical to care for the planet, Tom’s journey has come full circle. Now, as founder of Finding Eco, he’s helping households unlock greener, cheaper energy.
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If you’d told 11-year-old Tom, breathlessly sprinting down the track at Alexander Stadium, that I’d one day be running a company helping people to switch to cleaner, cheaper energy, I’d be amazed. Back then, I was just a Dragon pupil saying “yes” to everything, not realising how much those moments would shape my future.
At the Dragon, I discovered what it felt like to really push myself and succeed. I also learned it’s the simple things that lead to success. We weren’t the fastest runners, but we did go above and beyond in preparation. We practised that baton hand-over every Bun Break until it was perfect. Then, we continued to practise until we couldn’t possibly get it wrong. That year, my relay teammates, Jasper, Sam, Max and I, won the National Prep School Athletics Championships for the 100m relay. That thrill could never be beaten!
Another important, yet unlikely influence, was performing in the Yanomamo musical in E Block which was the first time I became aware, and quite frankly appalled, at how badly we look after the planet. A seed was planted during those early days at the Dragon, one rooted in discipline, teamwork and the drive to make a positive impact.
“Those early days at the Dragon taught me the power of saying ‘yes,’ of working together, and of pushing for something better.”
Today, that same ethos sits at the heart of my own company, Finding Eco. We help people that want to switch to cheaper, greener, and more efficient energy. There’s simplicity in our success. We bridge the gap between vulnerable households and the funding they’re entitled to upgrade their heating. It’s about making green energy accessible, not aspirational.
Those early days at the Dragon taught me the power of saying “yes,” of working together, and of pushing for something better. Now, I’m proud to be passing that baton forward and helping others access the support they need to enable them to live more sustainably.
Tom Baker (OD 2013)
Check out Tom’s website: Finding Eco
Let us know what you’ve been up to since your Dragon Days, we’d love to share your story.
