Former Royal Navy Veteran Encourages Young People to Join Armed Forces and Launch Successful Businesses
Wednesday 17 December, 2025 – Tymoor Nabil (46), a Royal Navy veteran from Swansea, is calling on more young people to consider joining the Armed Forces. Nabil, who served as a warfare specialist and assisted with English-Arabic translation during his 14 years of service, believes that the Navy gave him “discipline, independence, and values that civilian life never could.”
After being medically discharged from the Navy, Nabil struggled to find stable employment. However, with the help of a grant from The RNBT (The Royal Naval Benevolent Trust), he was able to purchase essential tools and equipment to launch his own business, Swans Bay Painting & Decorating & Cleaning. This opportunity allowed Nabil to rebuild his life and find success as a self-employed tradesman.
Nabil credits the Royal Navy for instilling in him the mindset that has helped him succeed in his business. “Every young person I meet, I tell them to think seriously about joining the Forces,” he said. “You learn discipline you’ll never learn from mum and dad or school. It gives you pride in being independent. It makes you the person you couldn’t be in civilian life. Respect, work ethic, morals, time management, attention to detail – you learn far more of that in the Armed Forces than anywhere else.”
Nabil also acknowledges the support he received from The RNBT, which played a crucial role in helping him start his business. “The RNBT helped me get on my feet. Starting a business is tough, especially when you leave the Forces, but their support coupled with the discipline and time management I’d learned during my time serving, made it possible.”
Not only is Nabil rebuilding his own life, but he is also mentoring 22-year-old apprentice Shane. “The Navy gave me the foundations for the business I run today. It teaches you to be part of something bigger than yourself,” Nabil said.
The RNBT supports serving and former Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel and their families by providing advice and financial assistance to those facing hardship or needing help to rebuild their lives. Debbie Dollner, CEO of The RNBT, expressed her pride in Nabil and all the other veterans who continue to contribute to their communities after service.
“Many veterans leave the service with incredible skills, but the transition into civilian life can be challenging – especially when trying to start a business or return to the workplace,” Dollner said. “We’re proud to have supported Tymoor on his journey and proud of all our beneficiaries who continue to contribute so much to their communities after service.”
For more information on The RNBT or to apply for support, visit rnbt.org.uk.