From Clifton to the Wild - meet Dimitri Syrris, Class of 2007 Old Boy.
A passionate technologist with the soul of a bushman, Dimitri’s journey has taken him across Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, and the UK. Now based on the edge of the Kruger National Park, he blends his love for technology with a deep connection to nature.
His Greek heritage, strong family values, and formative years at Clifton have shaped his leadership style and adventurous spirit.
We caught up with Dimitri in our latest Q&A, ‘From Our Old Boys’ Network’. Read more about his incredible journey in our latest blog post.
Tell us a bit about what you currently do, including where you studied, roles you have held, and what your work entails.
Today, I’m proud to be the Founder and CEO of Baotree, an African-founded tech company on a mission to connect conservation, community, and sustainability through smart, data-driven solutions. I get to work alongside an amazing team, guiding our projects, building partnerships, and making sure our tools really help organisations make a measurable impact.
Before Baotree, I spent nearly a decade in Ad-Tech in London, diving deep into big data and machine learning. Those experiences shaped how I think about solving problems – and now, I get to use them to make a real difference for people, communities, and the planet.
How did you end up where you are now? Tell us a bit about the journey along the way.
My path has been anything but straight. I started in the Greek military, completing my prescription service, and not long after, I moved to London to dive into the world of advertising technology – exploring big data and human behavior. Yet, even with all the learning and growth, something felt missing. I wanted my work to matter on a bigger scale.
In 2019, I set off alone on a journey through East and Southern Africa. It was during those months on the road – immersed in nature, communities, and real-world challenges – that Baotree was born. I realized technology could do more than analyze data; it could help protect our planet, empower communities, and make sustainability measurable and meaningful.
Today, Baotree supports organisations across Africa, Asia, and South America, proving that when technology meets purpose, real change is possible.
Looking back, every step – every twist, turn, and leap into the unknown – has shaped the person I am today. And while the journey continues, I feel grateful to be building something that leaves a positive mark on the world, one measurable impact at a time.
Dimitri Syrris
What are some of the good/fond memories you forged during your time at Clifton?
The camaraderie, the traditions, and the way we supported each other – all of it has stayed with me. Nature, outdoor adventures, and the friendships I built there helped shape who I am today. Mrs Visser, may she rest in peace, a teacher who ran the Bird Club at Clifton Prep School, was certainly my most influential teacher. She opened the door to a place where I feel most at peace: in nature, the real world.
Was this the career path you envisioned while at school, or when did your passion for this work first begin? How did Clifton shape your love for nature and community?
Clifton gave me more than an education – it gave me a sense of responsibility, not just for myself, but for the world around me. From taking on leadership roles to diving into new experiences and community projects, I was constantly encouraged to step up and make a difference.
I didn’t set out to build a career in conservation technology, but the school’s values of integrity, service, and care for others quietly shaped how I see the world – and sparked the drive to turn that vision into something meaningful.
What advice would you share with yourself as a schoolboy, and what message would you give to other Clifton Boys to inspire involvement in the Old Boys’ Association?
Clifton Boys have a unique opportunity to support one another, lift as we climb, and create positive change in industries and communities across the world. My advice? Be kind. Kindness is the gateway to living a life of purpose. When we act with intention and compassion, we experience the true power of humanity. Always lead with kindness, and the world will reflect it back to you.
Dimitri Syrris
What do you attribute your successes in life to? What is your personal ethos or creed?
Success, to me, is a byproduct of consistency, resilience, and purpose.
When I first encountered the challenges of human – wildlife coexistence, I learned one of my most important life lessons: when you find a problem – whether in society, business, or the environment – and become truly obsessed with solving it, you gain a sense of purpose that invigorates every part of your life. Don’t give up, don’t give in. The world needs more changemakers who are willing to step in where previous generations have fallen short.
This drive defines my idea of success. For me, success isn’t a destination – it’s the journey itself.
I believe in leading with intention, creating impact beyond profit, and staying open to learning at every stage. My ethos is simple: build something greater than yourself.
Dimitri Syrris
Looking back, what’s the one piece of advice you would give your younger self?
Take risks sooner, even when the outcome isn’t clear. Don’t be afraid to fail – failure has a way of teaching you the lessons success never can.
Every setback, pivot, and moment of uncertainty is shaping you for what’s ahead.
Trust the process, stay curious, and keep moving forward, even when the path doesn’t make sense yet.
What's next for you, what are your plans going forward?
After five years of development, Baotree is entering an exciting new chapter. We are scaling with intention – partnering with more organisations, expanding into new regions, and continuously refining how impact is measured across sectors committed to sustainability. My belief is simple but bold: one day, Baotree will connect over one billion people, enabling positive action for people, climate, and the planet, and ensuring those actions are recognised and rewarded.
Looking ahead, my focus remains on people – mentoring the next generation of leaders, growing Baotree’s global footprint, and continuing to push the boundaries of how technology can be used as a force for good. The future we’re building is one where purpose and progress go hand in hand, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.
For any Old Boys who are curious to follow the journey or simply want to connect, you’re welcome to find Dimitri here:
Website: https://www.baotree.io/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimitri-syrris/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dimitree4/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@dimitrisyrri
Thank you, Dimitri, for sharing your journey with us. Your passion, vision, and dedication to making a positive impact are truly inspiring.
Clifton Old Boys will continue cheering you on as you shape a brighter future for people, communities, and the planet.
#FromOurOldBoysNetwork #WhereAreTheyNow #AdventureAwaits
