Kelly Hoppen talks Dragons' Den and ambition

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HERE BE DRAGONS: The investors of Dragons' Den are looking for passion and innovative thinking.

Two new entrepreneurs join the judging panel when Dragons' Den season 11 makes its New Zealand debut tonight on Sky's BBC Knowledge channel. James Croot caught up with one of them - interior designer Kelly Hoppen.

When and how did you first discover your skills as an interior decorator? And as an entrepreneur?

I have always wanted to be a designer. My mother always tells me that as a child I was constantly shifting furniture around our home, displaying everything at its best. I am sure it drove her crazy! Then when I was 16 and a half, a friend of my father asked me to design his kitchen. That was my first assignment and how my business started and I havent looked back since the passion to do what I do just grew stronger with time. I suppose I have always been determined and wanted to work hard.

What are the most important business lessons you learned in your youth?

Once when I was working with a life coach, one of the things he told me when I wanted to build the business was: 1) Your business never reaches the top, you can always take the next step. 2) If you step down from where you are standing, you can fall a lot further than you think. Also remember, success is not a day job, you have to work hard.

Who was your inspiration or mentor in business?

In terms of individuals who inspired me, there have been so many throughout my life and many for different reasons but a few that stand out include Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren and Nelson Mandela people who have a voice and are not frightened of speaking and are true to their thoughts are always an inspiration. My mother is also a great inspiration, she is a successful businesswoman, even to this day.

How important was your education in assisting in your business career?

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Kelly Hoppen talks Dragons' Den and ambition