"Sometimes we live in a world where people forget the journey. I don't ever want to forget the journey. I think you’re only truly successful when you can help other people achieve their dreams and that's probably what drives me more than anything else"
Philanthropy
Dr Tevin Tobun believes that self-belief is the foundation of success, but he is equally committed to ensuring that others have the platform, resources, and support to discover that belief in themselves.
His own journey began shortly after graduating from Middlesex University London, when he launched his first business with little more than conviction and determination. That business grew into GV Group, one of the UK's leading independently owned food logistics companies, and later into Routd Technology, an AI-powered logistics intelligence platform now operating across the UK and United States. Reflecting on that journey, Tobun credits education as the gateway that made it possible - giving him the conviction in his vision, the confidence in his abilities, and the foundation to build from the ground up.
That belief - that education is the single greatest enabler of positive social change - is what drove him to establish The Tobun Foundation in 2015, and what continues to shape his wider philanthropic work today.
His contribution to education has been formally recognised by several leading universities. He holds honorary doctorates from Middlesex University and the University of East London - each awarded in recognition of his impact on business, philanthropy, and social mobility. In 2023, that recognition extended internationally when he was inducted into the Dr Martin Luther King Jr Board of Sponsors at Morehouse College in Atlanta - one of the most prestigious historically Black universities in the world - acknowledging his commitment to leadership, community, and creating opportunity for others.
The Tobun Foundation actively works to ensure underprivileged and disadvantaged young people across the UK are given a platform to reach their goals.
In 2020, the Foundation launched an Education Support Programme committed to supporting 250,000 young people. It does this by providing laptops (over 1,000 donated to date) and subsidised maths, English and science tuition to students, which widened an already significant attainment gap.
GV Scholarship Programme
The financial barriers caused by rising tuition fees and higher living costs mean that for many young people university is simply out of reach.
“I believe that every individual must play their part in helping the next generation, this is just one of the ways I am able to do this.”
In 2015, Tobun established the GV Scholarship Programme, providing underprivileged and disadvantaged young people with scholarships and career development support to help them reach their goals.
In 2011, Tobun was appointed Chair of Inspirational You, a London-based social enterprise dedicated to motivating and empowering young people to become successful leaders.
As Chair, he has overseen over 50 enterprise workshop and forum events reaching more than 10,000 individuals, providing mentoring, business forums, and workshops designed to inspire and equip the next generation.
Board Member - Middlesex University
A board member since 2016, Tobun has played a pivotal role in shaping the university's strategic vision. With 60% of its student population from ethnic minority backgrounds, he works closely with fellow board members to develop tailored programmes that identify and support those who face barriers to educational success.
Council Member - Open University
Tobun serves as a Council member at The Open University, which has the largest student population in the UK. In this role he helps oversee operations, shape strategic direction, and ensures the university's vision is delivered effectively - with a particular focus on employment outcomes for students.
Lifetime Patron - Springboard
Tevin is a lifetime patron of Springboard, a hospitality and tourism charity that helps unemployed and disadvantaged people find work and build careers in the sector.