Joe Seddon
Inclusion

Joe Seddon

CEOZero Gravity

Why get kids from low-opportunity backgrounds into top universities?
11:34·2 December 2025

Oxford University states that the creation of the iconic PPE degree Joe studied for “arose from the belief that the advanced study of all three subjects would transform students' intellectual lives, to great social benefit.” As you listen to Joe’s story, you will see just how well that plan has worked!

Joe Seddon is the young founder and CEO of one of the fastest growing companies in the UK: Zero Gravity, a social enterprise which connects the UK’s most talented students with mentors, universities, and employers. He has been named as one of the Top 10 Young Digital Leaders in the UK, and has received multiple awards for social impact in education.

Joe built the company after graduating from Oxford with a First Class degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE). Outstanding accomplishments, but accomplishments despite his background. Joe grew up in a single-parent household in suburban Yorkshire, where he went to state school. Nothing in his environment suggested he would get to Oxford. He got there anyway, but was struck by how improbable his success was and was determined to change that; to change the chronically low expectations for people from low-opportunity backgrounds.

Listen to Joe Seddon explain exactly how since 2020, Zero Gravity has helped over 15,000 young people get into the prestigious universities that matched their potential.

Vanessa C. Stone
impact.info journalist
Published on 2 December 2025
Photo credit — Zero Gravity