A 23-year-old student from Mallapally in Thiruvalla, Kerala, who completed a Master’s in macro-economics at the London School of Economics, has launched Thomas Tours to earn a living and help fellow graduates facing a tough UK job market. Named after his grandfather, the social enterprise founded by Jame Thomas Mathew offers part-time tour guide work to new jobseekers, aiming to provide flexible, dignified employment and a London Living Wage.
Drawing on his experience as a cash‑strapped LSE student and as a cyclist who learned city shortcuts, Jame curates budget-friendly, immersive itineraries that show visitors London like a local using the Tube, red buses and walking routes. He says the model lets guides earn roughly half the cost of other city tourism options while keeping tours authentic and affordable.
As a holder of the Graduate Route visa, Jame has seen peers take demoralising retail roles and zero‑hour contracts just to survive, leaving them little time to pursue career opportunities. Thomas Tours is designed to offer flexibility—guides can work, for example, three days a week to earn enough to cover living costs and keep other days free for job applications and interviews. The service aims to pay guides the London Living Wage of 14.80 pounds an hour, with additional tips possible from satisfied travellers.
Thomas Tours offers themed itineraries including “Icons of London,” museums, shopping streets, and sports and theatre experiences. The booking process begins with a free online chat to design a bespoke route that considers health and access needs; payment is made at the agreed meeting point. Tours include money‑saving tips for major attractions such as Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London.
Launched at the end of January, Thomas Tours secured its first bookings for June and is planning gradual growth. Beyond income, Jame says the initiative supports mental health by countering loneliness and rejection among young jobseekers and may open networking opportunities with travellers from around the world, possibly even future employers. Having guided visiting family, including elderly relatives, he believes the graduate-led tours can help others experience London’s history, local eateries and hidden gems at affordable prices.
