The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those held by the publishers and therefore, no responsibility can be held by the publisher for misinterpretation. Reproduction of this magazine without the express permission of the publisher is prohibited. Whilst every care is taken in the production of this magazine, the publisher/editor and staff cannot accept any responsibility for errors in articles, advertisements or programme schedules. To subscribe to this magazine contact 07711 539047 or email editor@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk. Published by Ghost Publishing who decline all responsibility for advice given.
ISSN 2756-0457
07
LEEDS CITY COUNCIL CONFIRMS INTERIM CEO
MASS TRANSIT: COUNCIL BACKS FIRST PHASE OF SCHEME
HOTHAM HALL OPENS ITS DOORS
LIFELONG LEARNER IS A SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR FROM STRUGGLING SINGLE MUM TO CEO 30 42 50 71
YORKSHIRE MILLINER UNVEILS FIRST FASHION LINE
YORKSHIRE BUSINESSWOMAN AWARDS NOW LAUNCHED
INSPIRING WOMEN’S LANDSCAPE LEGACY GOES BEFORE COUNCIL CHIEFS FROM HOSPITALITY TO HEALING ART 10 35 46 70
EditorsNotes
By group editor Gill Laidler
Welcome to this edition of Yorkshire Businesswoman. As I write this, we were expecting an Indian Summer, instead we are experiencing floods all over the country and I have turned my central heating back on!
That said, Autumn is my favourite season, not when it’s raining but when we have those cold, crisp sunny mornings, showing off the stunning autumn colours. Our fashion expert Lisa Darwin agrees too as she shares with readers her tips on all things Autumn fashion.
September has been the busiest month so far this year. There have been so many events, we’ve turned down many more than we have attended, October is shaping up to be just as busy too. We held our awards launch on 12th September at Leeds First Direct Arena to more than 90 guests made up of judges, sponsors, supporters, members and guests. Hosted by the fabulous Matt Jameson, guests joined us for the countdown to the opening of the nominations and ticket sales online. Do visit our website and get voting and book your ticket early, we sold out very quickly for our first awards.
We also held our first event with our partners at Toyota. Supported by John Lewis, The Beauty Box and member Rachel Cheshire. The event was very well attended, and I would recommend
anyone in the Leeds area and who missed out on the event, to pop in and book a test drive. Toyota have a fantastic range of electric vehicles, and you can be assured of a warm welcome.
I’d like to welcome three new partners this issue. Leeds University Business School; Audley Park Scarcroft and Aagrah Leeds. We are looking forward to working with them and bringing to you all their news and updates.
As we go to print our attention turns to Northern Businesswoman a new magazine, we are publishing covering Newcastle and the Northeast on 17th October, do look out for it and let us know if you would like to promote your business in that area.
Gill x
You can email us at hello@yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk or call us on 07711 539047 yorkshire_businesswoman yorkshirebusin2
Leeds City Council confirms new interim chief executive
Leeds City Council has confirmed the appointment of Mariana Pexton as interim chief executive in a unanimous vote of its full council.
Mariana, the council’s director of strategy and resources, will take up the position when current chief executive Tom Riordan leaves later this month.
She will be the first ever woman to take up the role, heading the secondbiggest local authority in the country and bringing a strong track record of driving the council’s ambitions for both itself and the city.
Councillor James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “Mariana will be an excellent interim chief executive and I’m very pleased that full council has agreed her appointment. We have strong representation from women across our senior political and officer leadership and this is an important milestone for us to now also have our first female head of paid service.
“She has been leading many of our key frontline services over the past couple of years and has been driving the council expertly and efficiently through the considerable financial challenges we have been experiencing and continue to face, in common with other councils.
“Mariana is also held in high regard across the city for her work with partner organisations and the sports sector and is a passionate champion of our city and council ambitions and values.”
During her career at the council, she has worked closely over the years with Tom, who is leaving for a new job leading national health and social care reforms as a permanent secretary with the Department of Health and Social Care
Mariana said: “It’s a great privilege to have this opportunity and I’m completely committed to the council and to Leeds. Here we do things together, working with residents and partners to achieve the best for the city and its people.
“I will be focused on consolidating all the ongoing efforts to improveF
the efficiency and effectiveness of the council, while working towards delivering a balanced budget. I am also determined that alongside this work we continue to operate as a team, both within the council and more broadly, to make the most of opportunities to help improve lives across the city.”
As the council’s current director of strategy and resources, Mariana leads a large directorate with key corporate services including finance, human resources and many other areas, along with Civic Enterprise Leeds, which provides frontline services such as catering, cleaning, school crossing patrols, passenger transport and building repairs.
Mariana joined the council in 2000 and has held senior roles in strategy, customer services and children’s services. Before then she had a career in leadership and management in the Civil Service and an inspectorate. She studied sports studies in Newcastle, has a master’s in business administration from the University of Leeds, and has recently been awarded a professional doctorate at Leeds Beckett University, researching leadership and strategy in local government.
Married, with two children, Mariana is also chair of the Leeds Rhinos Foundation and a director at Leeds Rhinos Netball as a volunteer. She completed the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon in 2023.
She will formally take up the interim chief executive post on the 23 September and will continue in this until the recruitment process for a permanent chief executive is completed.
Wagamama agrees deal to open at The Springs Leeds
Wagamama is the latest popular food and beverage brand set to open at The Springs retail and leisure centre at Thorpe Park Leeds. The Pan-Asian inspired restaurant group has agreed a 15-year lease to open a new 3,482 sq ft outlet just opposite ODEON and Nandos at The Springs.
The Springs Leeds marks wagamama’s 10th new opening in 2024. Since launching its first restaurant in London over 30 years ago, wagamama has become a household name with 169 locations across the UK. The stylish new restaurant is set to open in October providing 120 internal covers and 30 external covers. Open seven
days a week, it will create 52 new jobs for the area.
Milly Pearson, regional marketing manager said: “We are so excited to open the doors to our new restaurant in Leeds. Our benches will welcome the local community and visitors to The Springs, and we can’t wait to serve up some of our newest dishes and fresh favourites!”
In July, wagamama announced the launch of 'soul club', its first-ever loyalty programme, a unique platform where soul club members can redeem free menu items, exclusive content and engage with a new line up of
ambassadors. By downloading the soul club app, guests kick off a journey to redeem mouth-watering sides and mains with a bowl of edamame claimable instantly. For every visit, guests receive a stamp in their digital stamp-book, inspired by the Japanese tradition of hanko stamps.
Rachel Vickers, senior commercial manager at Scarborough Group International (SGI), developer and asset manager of The Springs and Thorpe Park Leeds, said: “We ’e delighted to announce that Wagamama is coming to The Springs. This incredibly popular brand perfectly complements our customer base, enhancing our status
as a vibrant destination for food and drink. The Springs has established itself as the go to place for shopping and leisure, not least because of its highly accessible location thanks to recent major improvements to local infrastructure.
“The Springs is one the best performing out of town locations across the entire UK for many of our store operators. This is because we have a transient visitor profile as well as an established working community of over 7,500 people on the business park. New neighbouring residential communities, both existing and planned, alongside 150 acres of community parkland and green open spaces, make our offer even more compelling.”
The deal with Wagamama follows a series of exciting new openings at The Springs with Starbucks, TUI, Hotel Chocolat and handmade frozen food expert, Cook being the most recent. Pret a Manger and Loungers also opened last year, enhancing the food and beverage offering for visitors.
The Springs is a 350,000 sq ft shopping and leisure attraction located at the heart of awardwinning business destination, Thorpe Park Leeds at Junction 46 of the M1. Brands include Next, Boots, M&S, TK Maxx, The Range, H&M, Pure Gym, Nandos and many more.
Because of its unique and highlymodern environment, The Springs has been used as a springboard for new concepts by a number of operators. These include the UK’s first purpose-designed ODEON Luxe cinema, a new concept store for The Range, as well as Vitruvian dental practice.
Mass transit: Council backs first phase of scheme
Leeds City Council is backing the first phase of West Yorkshire’s mass transit scheme, in a report due to go before senior councillors next week.
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is currently consulting on the first phase of its mass transit scheme, which would see tram routes created between St James’ Hospital and the White Rose office park and shopping centre, and between Leeds and Bradford.
A report to the Leeds City Council’s executive board, to be considered was at a meeting at Civic Hall on Wednesday 18 September, stating that the council recognises the ‘strategic importance’ of mass transit across Leeds and West Yorkshire
in improving transport connections and accelerating economic growth and regeneration.
This includes ‘unlocking of new housing growth opportunities across the city’ and ‘bringing people within easier reach of jobs and opportunities’, along with connecting people with education, health and local centres in addition to social and leisure destinations in the city centre.
The report also states that mass transit ‘will play a critical role in
helping Leeds to be the city where you don’t need a car, encouraging mode shift from private car use to reduce congestion and meet the council’s carbon net zero targets’.
The combined authority’s consultation options splits the possible mass transit route into three sections – Leeds city centre and South Leeds, which together make up the ‘Leeds Line’, and the ‘Bradford Line’.
There are four options for the Leeds city centre route, which would between St James’ Hospital and the River Aire at Victoria Bridge.
There are three options for South
Leeds route, which would join the city centre route at Victoria Bridge and end at the White Rose Shopping Centre via either Holbeck and Elland Road or along the A653 Dewsbury Road.
The Bradford Line options would connect Leeds and Bradford using three different routes between either Stanningley or Pudsey, and either Armley or Wortley.
The report states the council’s preference for Leeds city centre route known as L1 via East Parade and Infirmary Street, connecting to the South Leeds route known as L6 which would travel via Elland Road, Elland Road Stadium and Ring Road Beeston to the White Rose site.
The report states that the council supports routes that connect to these destinations along with the universities, hospitals, existing housing developments and the Innovation
Arc, and ‘offer opportunities to accelerate urban regeneration… and be a catalyst for wider change by helping to unlock brownfield development and placemaking that contributes to new housing delivery and economic growth’.
The report goes on to state that mass transit ‘has the potential to radically change access to the south of the city and particularly the corridor comprising Elland Road, the football stadium, White Rose Office Park and White Rose Shopping Centre, and outer south Leeds, linking to growth points in Kirklees’. The report suggests that options which follow routes through Middleton similar to those in the previously-proposed New Generation Transport (NGT) scheme would be ‘sub-optimal’ compared to routes which connect to Elland Road, and previous ‘negative feedback’ about the NGT routes should be taken into account.
The report recognises the importance of improving connectivity between the two largest cities in West Yorkshire and the ‘clear regeneration opportunities for key settlements along the route’.
The council also wants to ensure that ‘centres like Pudsey gain maximum benefit from the provision of an enhanced transport link’ and supports improved connections between the city centre, Pudsey and Bradford.
However, the report does not outline a specific preference for any of the three Bradford Line options at this stage, stating that the council would welcome ‘further conversations on the design development with WYCA to fully inform future considerations on a preferred route’. This includes understanding how any route would integrate and impact on the existing railway and Northern Powerhouse
Rail proposals, how any disruption to local highways would be minimised, and how mass transit would serve communities along the route.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:
“We are extremely supportive of mass transit in Leeds and the wider West Yorkshire region. It will improve transport connections, bring people within easier reach of jobs and opportunities, boost our economic growth and regeneration ambitions, and have a positive impact on people’s overall quality of life.
“Improved connectivity with our neighbours in Bradford is incredibly important in boosting both cities’ economic potential and is something that we would like to see delivered as soon as possible.
“We recognise that the combined authority’s proposals are at an early stage, and as such we require greater clarity in some key areas, but overall we are keen to realise mass transit and its benefits for our city and the wider region as a whole.”
The executive board report outlines the council’s technical response to the combined authority’s first phase of consultation. Following approval at next week’s executive board meeting, the council will provide its response to the combined authority. The full report can be read here.
The combined authority’s first phase mass transit consultation closes on 30 September 2024. To find out more visit www. wymasstransit.com
Yorkshire law firm works with Leeds charity to provide legal advice
Ison Harrison has experienced significant growth in the number of clients it acts for and recently opened its 20th office in Selby, reaffirming its expansive presence in the region.
To complement this growth and to be able to assist people in more of the communities where the firm has branches, from September onwards Ison Harrison will be providing legal aid support to people suffering from domestic abuse or needing assistance with care proceedings and child arrangement orders.
The legal aid team has been visiting charities and organisations in York, Doncaster, Wakefield, Barnsley, Castleford, Huddersfield and Leeds to advise them of the support that can be provided. In a number of locations, free legal advice clinics and workshops are also being set up.
One such organisation is Wren Bakery, a social enterprise that creates opportunities towards employment for disadvantaged women. Parveen Ahmed, who specialises in domestic violence, children and care work and is a resolution accredited specialist in
We now have 17 legal aid family lawyers across Yorkshire. This means we can provide free legal representation to people who need it...
women with an opportunity to meet in a safe space and get expert advice delivered informally over coffee, allowing them to feel empowered and in control of the decisions they make towards a more hopeful future.”
Three new experienced legal aid solicitors have joined the team to support the rollout of the service.
Damian McDermott has been a solicitor for 26 years and has worked in family care since November 2018, acting for parents across Yorkshire. He previously worked for Jordans Solicitors and is based in the York office.
Prerna Kapoor has been specialising in family law since she qualified in 2016. She has recently relocated to South Yorkshire and will look after family care cases in the Doncaster and Barnsley offices.
Kauser Arshid, who will be based in the Wakefield office, has three years’ experience as a family care solicitor and previously specialised in child abuse law.
forced marriage and domestic violence, has already been visiting Wren Bakery.
Clare Sanderson, who was one of the original founders of the bakery said: “We work with women who experience multiple disadvantages, many having had traumatic experiences of the court system. We are therefore excited to be working with Ison Harrison to host free legal advice sessions in our cafe and training base in Mabgate. We have already seen the benefit that Parveen’s advice sessions have had. They provide
Tim Burt, a partner in the family legal aid team, is managing the implementation of the project, said: “We now have 17 legal aid family lawyers across Yorkshire. This means we can provide free legal representation to people who need it, through care proceedings, social services involvement, child arrangements cases, or domestic abuse work. Ison Harrison’s commitment to legal aid family work is stronger than ever, and this growth is a great asset for the firm, and for the communities and families we seek to help.”
Stephen George + Partners (SGP) in conjunction with AHR has submitted plans for the £20 million redevelopment of Huddersfield's bus station, fronted by a sweeping 120-metre-long glulam, green roof and Solar PV canopy.
The bus station transformation is a partnership between Kirklees Metropolitan Borough Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority to create an innovative gateway to the revitalised town centre along with enhanced passenger facilities.
Explains Alistair Branch, partner at SGP: "Huddersfield is the largest bus station in West Yorkshire and its redevelopment is a core component in an ambitious series of town centre interventions led by the Council to create a cultural heart for the town centre. The unique canopy structure has a contemporary design, reminiscent of the rolling Yorkshire landscape, elevating the importance of this key transport hub and gathering point within the town centre.
SGP has been involved in the project for several years, developing the canopy from initial concept, through business case approval to the design now submitted for planning approval."
The design for the canopy and the public realm beneath it was developed through extensive discussions with clients, the local authority and other stakeholders. The proposed canopy design is a simple sinusoidal timber lattice structure supporting a green roof that undulates along the length of the bus station, emphasising key entrances and drawing the eye down
Sustainable canopy for Huddersfield's bus station
from the imposing multistorey car park's long concrete façade. Office and retail units in the station's frontages will also be revitalised, delivering a harmonious continuity with surrounding businesses.
Harmonious
Continues Matt Beaumont, associate at SGP: "The canopy uses a glulam lattice to support a mix of sedum roof and solar panel glass to create a light and inviting transition space from the public realm to the bus station itself. The integrated roof lights not only let natural light flow into the area but produce their own green energy, whilst the sedum promotes biodiversity, reducing rainwater runoff and helping improve local air quality. The solar glazing ensures energy generation is visible to users below for educational purposes whilst additionally diffusing direct sunlight."
Beneath the canopy, enhanced public realm extends north towards the taxi ranks and Grade I listed Railway station. A secure, glazed cycle hub for green transport supports the Local Authorities' commitment to modal shift, linking towns and villages across West Yorkshire and beyond as well as cycle and walking routes to the retail, civic and employment areas within Huddersfield town centre.
Concludes Alistair: "As Matt and I are Huddersfield residents, we are immensely proud of our design for Huddersfield Bus Station Canopy. We believe it has balanced sustainability with quality materials and created the landmark gateway to this strategic transport hub that the council and locals want and deserve."
If planning is granted, work is expected to start on site in the Summer of 2025.
Bird & Blend Tea Co. opens first store in Sheffield
Independent tea company, Bird & Blend Tea Co., has opened a new store in Sheffield city centre.
Located in a characterful unit on the corner of Pinstone Street and Cross Burgess Street, the celebrated retailer is the latest addition to Heart of the City – the major city centre regeneration scheme led by Sheffield City Council and its Strategic Development Partner, Queensberry.
Sheffield is the 20th retail store in the Bird & Blend Tea Co. portfolio and follows recent openings in Canterbury and Newcastle.
Creating at least six new jobs, the Sheffield shop will showcase its range of teas, and the largest Matcha tea range that can be found in the UK, via its bespoke Tea Wall display, alongside the wide range of tea tools and utensils and its takeaway tea bar.
Inventive tea flavours include Birthday Cake, MojiTEA and Chocolate Digestives, alongside firm favourites like Builders Breakfast Brew and Earl Grey Crème.
The Sheffield team will also host live
free Matcha tea demos, offer a tea matching service, showcase new and innovative flavour combinations, run mixology masterclasses, events and so much more.
Mike Turner, co-founder & managing director said: “Customer experience is at the heart of everything we do. Alongside the fast growth of the digital side of our business, we’re proudly continuing to invest in local high streets too. As a brand we seek out locations where we believe we align, the regeneration in Sheffield City Centre is remarkable and we wanted to be a part of that. We see our stores as not just retail
spaces, but as community hubs where customers can come to make connections with one another and our team and enjoy interacting with our teas. For us, there will always be a place for magical in-person experiences, and we’re delighted to have arrived in Sheffield.”
Cllr Ben Miskell, chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “We are delighted to welcome Bird & Blend to Sheffield. It’s a company that has a strong reputation for attractive, quirky stores and will create a perfect fit for the rustic corner unit in Laycock House.
“It’s fantastic to see so many brilliant businesses choosing to open their stores within our Heart of the City development. All together, we are ensuring that visitors to our city centre, along with residents, can enjoy a varied and inspiring experience. It’s clear that our vision to transform the city centre is bringing about more jobs and helping to boost economic growth in the city.
Andrew Davison, project director at Queensberry, continued: “Bird & Blend is another fantastic addition to Heart of the City, continuing the high-quality mix of national and independent retailers. It’s an entirely new offer for Sheffield city centre and complements the new fashion, homeware, lifestyle and coffee shop brands in the scheme. I’m sure it’s going to be a great success.”
Sustainability is at the forefront of the brand. To celebrate the opening of the Sheffield store, Bird & Blend has created its first Sustainability Grant and Mentoring Programme, offering a local business their advice and a cash fund to inject into the improvement of their organisations impact on people and planet.
Artisan market to become regular attraction at The Springs
A recent pop-up Artisan market at The Springs Leeds has proved so popular that organisers have committed to make it a regular feature throughout the year.
The ‘Leeds Local Market’ debuted at The Springs to celebrate Yorkshire Day, with 22 of Leeds’ finest local traders and independent businesses showcasing their wares with delicious food and artisan gifts on offer.
Among the popular vendors were The
Tru Soap Co, Yorkshire Pie Bakery, The Baking Banksy, COOK, The Crafty Northerner, Brutalist & Co and many others.
Hosted by Yorkshire Urban Markets (YUM), the event exceeded all expectations, prompting plans to
make The Springs a regular market destination alongside established markets in Meanwood and Rothwell.
One stallholder said, ‘I have to say it exceeded my expectations, not only because it was busy, and we managed to sell out ultra-quick but the atmosphere itself was great. I think not only us as traders enjoyed it, but it was a good addition for customers who were asking if this will be happening again.’
Another said, ‘Thank you for hosting a vibrant welcoming market. A great location, which was just right for us traders and even more so the public. We had numerous conversations with customers who seemed to really enjoy such an event in their local shopping area. Also being made to feel so welcomed by yourselves, really is appreciated by us small business owners.”
Visitors were also enthused with comments including,
‘We attended at about 2.30 and lots of stalls pretty much sold out so clearly well attended. Would like to see it here again/regularly but with even more stalls’
‘I think a regular market would be wonderful, especially a food/farmers market but other types of traders would be good too.’
‘We attended the market and had so much fun! Something for everyone & all ages. Was refreshing to have an event for the local community. Can't wait for the next one!’
Rachel Vickers, senior commercial manager at Scarborough Group International (SGI), developer and asset manager of The Springs and Thorpe Park Leeds, said: “As demonstrated through our seasonal events programme, we are committed to bringing in new and exciting attractions to The Springs on a regular basis. We are thrilled that the Leeds Local Market proved so popular for our visitors and that we were also able to support independent traders where some sold out of their wares in just a few hours. The event also boosted footfall for our existing stores where many reported increased trading.”
A date for the next Leeds Local Market is set to be announced soon.
The Springs is a 350,000 sq ft shopping and leisure attraction located at the heart of award-winning business destination, Thorpe Park Leeds at Junction 46 of the M1. Outlets include Next, Boots, M&S, TK Maxx, The Range, Dunelm, JD, H&M, Fat Face, Hotel Chocolat, Pure Gym, Nandos, Costa Coffee, Pret A Manger, ODEON Luxe and many more.
Textile dyeing community celebrates launch of historic digital archive
The Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) has launched a new online Textile Collection, bringing its vast archive of textile dyeing history to a growing community of enthusiasts, professionals, and researchers worldwide.
Shelley Hollingdrake is a magpie of sorts. As historical collections officer at SDC, it’s her role to deliver shiny artefacts from the rich history of colour science for future generations to enjoy.
For the past several months, Shelley has been leading the SDC team in meticulously cataloguing almost 50,000 textile dyeing artefacts, journals, and books to preserve and share the society’s 140-year heritage with a wider audience. From Yorkshire to New York, the interactive collection features 19th-century dyes, journals, scientific equipment, and more from historic makers.
Reflecting on the project, Shelley said, “We are at the very early stages of cataloguing the collection, but this new website allows us to engage with our community in a meaningful way. It’s incredibly satisfying to see our progress and to share the wonders of our collection with the world."
As well as the launch, the SDC is also looking forward to the 43rd International Conference on Dyes in History and Archaeology (DHA43). Held at Leeds’ iconic Cloth Hall Court starting 23rd October 2024 – with 24 spoken presentations on colour history over three days – the importance of archives like the SDC’s Textile Collection in ongoing research will be a key topic of discussion.
To explore the collection, visit: collections.sdc.org.uk
Company of the Month
Consultation launches to improve active travel around Crossgates
Local residents, schools and businesses are being asked to feedback on proposals to improve walking and cycling routes around the Crossgates area.
Plans aim to create safer and healthier streets and make it more convenient to walk, wheel* and cycle shorter journeys to school, local shops and the centre of Crossgates.
£1.9m of government funding has been awarded to develop and deliver the scheme which focuses on Barwick Road, areas of Swarcliffe and Manston, and the Poole Estate.
Previous feedback highlighted that it can be difficult to cross the road at busy junctions and that existing cycle routes aren’t well connected or signed. Plans aim to address this by making it easier to cross the road, better connecting existing cycle routes, and making the area safer for all road users.
Proposals include:
• Two-way segregated cycle track along Barwick Road, connecting to existing cycle links
• New signalised crossings for pedestrians and cycle users over Seacroft roundabout
• Wider footways along Barwick Road
• Safer and more accessible pedestrian crossings throughout the area, including a new zebra crossing between Austhorpe Road and Manston Park
• Tree planting along Barwick Road and the opportunity for a pocket park along Farm Road
• Changes to vehicle access to and from Swardale Green – residents will be presented with three options to choose from
The proposed cycle track along Barwick
Road will connect to the existing City Connect route, which runs from the city centre towards Seacroft, aiming to improve cycle links in the area.
The scheme includes some changes to on-street parking along Barwick Road to help make space for footway widening and a new two-way cycle track.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said: “There are a lot of local schools in the area, and we want to make doing the school run, or visits to local shops and amenities safer for everyone. By improving walking and cycling links and making it safer and easier to cross the road, we’re aiming
to increase the number of people that choose to travel in greener and healthier ways whilst making the area more accessible. I would encourage anyone in the area to have their say to make sure their voice is heard in the consultation.”
The scheme is being developed by Leeds City Council in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Deputy chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee Cllr Peter Carlill said: “We want to build a better-connected West Yorkshire by making it easier to walk, wheel and cycle in our communities.
"I'd encourage people to have their
Kirklees College forms partnership with Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice
Forget Me Not Children’s
Hospice’s Chief Executive
Gareth Pierce and Kirklees College’s CEO Palvinder Singh recently launched a new partnership that’s set to lead to some special experiences for the children and families the children’s hospice supports.
Kirklees College students will also benefit from the opportunity to develop the skills
they need for their careers in a setting rated ‘outstanding’ by Care Quality Commission inspectors in 2023.
The partnership came about after the two leaders met at an event in 2023. Palvinder initially visited the hospice, and then invited Gareth and his colleagues to tour the college’s Huddersfield Centre.
Gareth Pierce said: “When we walked around Kirklees College and saw the
say, so we can make it easier for people to use more active modes of transport in this part of Leeds."
Residents, businesses and visitors to the area are encouraged to have their say before the consultation closes. People can have their say in the 10-minute surveyhere, or by attending a drop-in event.
To request paper copies of the proposals and the survey please contact 0113 336 8868 or email connectingleeds@leeds.gov. uk.
*Wheeling includes using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walking aids and travelling with a pram or pushchair.
amazing facilities, we kept seeing brilliant opportunities for our children and their families. We’re looking forward to welcoming Kirklees College students to the hospice and our shops for placements, apprenticeships and volunteering opportunities.”
Palvinder and Gareth were joined at the launch by Julia Arechiga, Pauline Hughes, Helen Rose and Claire Bunclark of the Kirklees College Executive Leadership Team.
Palvinder Singh said: “This new partnership aligns with our values of kindness, unity and excellence and will allow us to continue to create opportunities and change lives for both our students and local residents. As two community stakeholders, we’re excited about how we can promote new ways of learning in Kirklees and make a difference to the lives of those who the hospice supports.”
Forget Me Not children's hospice and Kirklees College launch new partnership
The concept of ‘risk’
Risk is a fluid premise within investing, and that which constitutes low risk for some, may not for others.
With over 32% of the world’s wealth currently held by women, according to the WealthiHer Network, women have a big role to play in the world of investment. However, our own research uncovered significant differences in the approaches of female investors, relative to their male counterparts, particularly when it comes to risk.
Women have shown to be more risk averse, or in some cases risk aware, then men. There are a variety of factors that have contributed to this, the most pertinent being that women have historically been afforded less exposure to investments than men. Our own research at Quilter offers insight into this, with over 64% of our female clients revealing that before working with Quilter, their assets were held entirely in cash.
To qualify how risk is interpreted within investments, a portfolio of investments is typically placed into a risk category, which denotes its risk and return objectives. As such, lower risk portfolios may provide a steady, if unspectacular, return, while higher risk portfolios may generate greater returns but incur periods of higher volatility. All investments fluctuate, and clients should seek to align themselves with the risk level most palatable with their own personal circumstances.
As an industry, it is our responsibility to engage with clients more holistically and ensure they are fully appraised and educated on their investments and the wider markets. We believe
that by working directly with clients to ascertain their true tolerance for risk, we can ensure that each client’s portfolio works to its fullest potential and provides returns relevant to their personal profile.
With this in mind, how should women approach risk in investing and what are the key things to consider?
There are no ‘silver bullets’ for risk
No one asset class is immune to all market conditions, and even those areas typically perceived to be ‘safe havens’ or towards the lower end of the risk spectrum may falter. A demonstration of this can be found in the 2022 UK bond markets.
Bonds, and particularly government bonds, are generally considered to be a lower-risk investment than equities or stocks. As such, defensive portfolios will typically have greater exposure to bonds (also known as fixed interest investments) and rely on their more steady return profile to add value. In a less risk-averse portfolio, the allocation to bonds will have decreased, typically in favour of
equities or alternative investments such as property.
However, bond markets can become volatile, as was the case in late September 2022, when the UK’s thenchancellor, Kwasi Kwarteng, unveiled his “minibudget”. The package announced a series of unfunded tax cuts designed to stimulate growth within the UK economy but was rejected outright by the market on fears over sustainability. This led to a mass sell-off in the bond markets and sent the British pound plummeting to an all-time low relative to the US dollar.
This, though a relatively isolated incident, highlights how a conventionally low-risk portfolio may still suffer losses throughout particular market events and periods.
Navigating risk
While studies have shown women to generally favour a lower risk approach to investing, it is important to have a full understanding of the risks associated, and your tolerance to them, before deciding upon an investment path.After careful analysis in conjunction with your investment adviser, it may be that your ability to withstand, and confidence in taking risks is greater than originally expected. Therefore, a higher risk portfolio, with greater return potential, may be more suitable.
Financial Planners
Robin Howcroft - Robin.Howcroft@quiltercheviot.com
Tax treatment varies according to individual circumstances and is subject to change.
Quilter Cheviot Financial Planning is a trading name of Quilter Private Client Advisers Limited which is an appointed representative of Quilter Financial Services Limited and Quilter Mortgage Planning Limited, which are
Yorkshire will host its first official British Beauty Week event in October with The Festival of Health, Beauty and Longevity taking place at Grantley Hall on Sunday 27th October.
Hosted by This is Yorkshire Beauty founder and North Yorkshire cosmetic surgeon, Dr Luna Khan-Salim, the event will put the spotlight on key issues including representation in beauty, women’s health and longevity.
Attendees will enjoy an amazing line-up of speakers and topics,
authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 06201261, registered address: Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4V 4AB.
Quilter Financial Services Limited and Quilter Mortgage Planning Limited is
entered on the FCA register (https:// register.fca.org.uk/s/) under reference 440703 and 440718. Trusts, Estate planning, some Buy to Let Mortgage, Taxation and Inheritance Tax Advice are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The representative member of the VAT group is Quilter Business Services Limited. VAT registration number: 386 1301 59.
leading brands and the latest in technology and treatments in women's health and beauty. Morning or afternoon sessions are available, and all attendees will receive a specially curated goodie bag.
www.thisisyorkshirebeauty.com
Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence:
An Interview with Zoe Hands, sales leader, The Leeds Marriott Hotel
In an era where staff turnover is higher than ever, dedicating a quarter of a century to one company is a remarkable feat. Yorkshire Businesswoman member Zoe Hands, the hotel sales leader at the Leeds Marriott, has recently celebrated this milestone, marking 25 years of dedication. “Marriott is a really great employer and really does look after its staff,” Zoe shares with a smile.
Zoe’s journey with Marriott began in 1999 as a room service supervisor at the Leeds Marriott. Over the years, she has embraced a variety of roles, showcasing her versatility and dedication. “I’ve worked in
10 different roles throughout my career. After starting in room service, I was promoted to assistant restaurant & bar manager. Then I moved to Hollins Hall in Baildon, where I worked for seven years in
positions including conferencing and banqueting manager, head housekeeper, and senior events manager. Eventually, I returned to Leeds Marriott as the hotel sales leader, a role I absolutely love.”
Throughout her career, Zoe has balanced her professional life with raising four children, benefiting from Marriott’s supportive work environment. “Marriott has always been accommodating to my needs, allowing me to work flexible hours
to manage childcare. When you have a supportive employer, it inspires loyalty and a strong work ethic. Being a working mum and a single parent can be challenging, but I have always felt supported and appreciated.”
Despite her long tenure, Zoe’s career has been anything but monotonous. The variety of roles and venues has kept her journey exciting. “People might think being in the same company for 25 years sounds boring, but I’ve never done the same job for long. Hospitality is a fantastic career! I’ve worked my way through different ranks, finding immense personal fulfilment along the way. I’m a huge advocate for careers in hospitality and have had an amazing journey.”
One of Zoe’s career highlights was the Inaugural Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards dinner in April. “Being part of the committee for such a prestigious event was exhilarating. Working with inspirational women and seeing our hard work come to life was an incredible experience. I was nominated for the Networker of the Year Award and won! Hosting the event at my hotel and winning the award was the icing on the cake.” In recognition of her 25 years with Marriott, Zoe joined the exclusive Marriott Quarter Century Club, receiving a fabulous pin badge with a real ruby. “Being part of this club gives you access to Marriott hotels worldwide for complimentary stays. Me and the children feel like the world is our oyster now, and we’re planning lots of adventures!”
The Leeds Marriott Hotel also recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, an event made even more special by marking the first anniversary of the Gino D’Acampo restaurant within the hotel. Guests
enjoyed a spectacular party, honouring both the hotel’s rich history and the restaurant’s successful debut year.
Zoe's journey showcases the remarkable opportunities in the hospitality
industry and highlights the supportive environment that Marriott offers. Her story demonstrates how passion, dedication, and a supportive employer can lead to a fulfilling and dynamic career.
Innovation tool launched to help accelerate projects
Leeds based ThinkOTB, which supports organisations to implement and accelerate innovation, has announced its Innovation Flywheel is now available as a new immersive experience for teams.
The Innovation Flywheel has been developed over 30 years and is now accessible to organisations across the all sectors that would like to either develop or enhance their innovation activities.
The Innovation Flywheel helps organisations to multiply and explore possibilities to any specific challenges - enhancing safety, reduction of costs, decrease carbon, becoming more efficient, increasing sales and more.
To date, it has been used by hundreds of leading companies around the world – Reuters, Google Deep Mind, Boots, the Nuclear Decommissioning
Authority, National Grid and Siemens.
Tina Catling, innovation director said: “Our Innovation Flywheel
is proven to create, develop and implement innovation with focus and pace and more than that it is engaging and fun”
The Flywheel is designed to be quick, easy, and effective to use.
Siemens Energy is an example of one of the organisations currently embedding the ThinkOTB innovation methodology. The team at ThinkOTB were invited to apply their expertise in innovation, marketing, and communications to create a state-of the art innovation centre in Berlin to help Siemens Energy unlock and develop radical new ideas to tackle the energy crisis and drive innovation at an accelerated pace.
Tina, who designed the programme said: “It’s an immersive approach that makes innovation easy and
L to R: Jo Waddington, managing director, Tina Catling innovation director and Mark Davies director at ThinkOTB - Photo credit: Guzelian Media
accessible for everyone. It’s a tried and tested method for adding value through new ways of working.”
Tina is a corporate psychologist with a Master’s in business psychology, she is a member of the Association for Business Psychology and the co-author of two bestselling books on creativity and innovation, published by Wiley.
She said: “Our unique Flywheel is founded in psychology and taps into the critical importance of cognitive diversity to support and enable the creative thinking that leads to successful innovation.”
The Flywheel uses a five-step approach that underpins innovation for any business: immersion, exploration, consolidation, activation, and adoption.
The tool is aimed at those working in research and development, managers, engineers, strategists, and innovation directors or anyone who has a challenge they want to solve in a fast and effective way.
Tina added: “The benefits of the Flywheel are that it is easy to use and makes instant sense to everyone who engages with it. It can be used immediately to tackle projects, so it is fast and effective. The success is down to the fact that its methodology has been tried and tested across the last three decades in real world organisations globally. The Innovation Flywheel enables effective innovation, team building, and takes your team through the cycle from challenge to idea creation and adoption. In times of rapid change organisations need to adapt to die. We can help you innovate your project or service and help you become more resilient to change. If you are finding innovation is hard – you are doing it wrong!”
New chef for Swinton Park
A new kitchen, a refurbished restaurant and now a new chef complete the 2024 relaunch of Samuel’s Restaurant at Swinton Park Hotel. Struan Macintyre will be leading the team delivering fantastic menus at the heart of the Swinton Estate.
Struan has grown an excellent reputation working at some of the top hotels around North Yorkshire, including Aldwark Manor, Grantley Hall, the Principal and Hotel du Vin in York, as well as setting up the award-winning Alexander’s Grand Café and Bar in Skipton.
“We are thrilled to have Struan leading a new era for Samuel’s here at Swinton Park, and we are looking forward to how he takes forward our estate-to-plate ethos of bringing the freshest, Estate-grown and reared produce to the discerning classic British and European dining audience here,” comments general manager, Paul Hunter. “We completed work on the kitchens earlier this year, introducing a £500k investment stateof-the-art technology to deliver a
significant reduction in energy use. Samuel’s Restaurant itself has been stylishly redesigned, so what better time is there to rediscover the finest Yorkshire food?”
Samuel’s serves traditional British ‘brasserie’ food with a contemporary twist, built around a core of seasonal ingredients from the kitchen garden and wider estate. An impressive wine cellar provides the complement to any dish, from Swinton Estate Pork Wellington to East Coast Cod Loin; a sommelier is on hand to advise on appropriate pairings of food and wine. The restaurant is also known for its incredible Sunday lunch – perfect for family get-togethers over hearty local fare – and as one of Yorkshire’s top spots for Afternoon Tea overlooking the parkland at Swinton Park Hotel.
Be a confident networker
Networking doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s natural to feel a bit uneasy at the thought of entering a room full of strangers and somehow making small talk.
But remember, you’re not alone, everyone in that room likely feels the same way. The beauty of in-person networking is that it brings together supportive, understanding individuals who genuinely want to connect with you. Everyone is there for the same reason: to build connections. So, take a deep breath, embrace the positivity in the room, and know that you’re among friends who are excited to chat and network with you.
I personally love attending the Yorkshire Businesswoman events and always find the room full of the most supportive and encouraging women. I have made some true friends from the events.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, here are five tips to help you navigate networking with positivity and purpose.
1. Prioritise quality connections
Networking isn’t about how many people you know; it’s about the quality of the relationships you build. Take the time to understand the challenges and goals of the people you meet. Seek out connections with people who inspire and uplift you. A supportive network isn’t just about professional growth; it’s also about mutual encouragement and empowerment. Surround yourself with people who are positive, driven, and willing to share advice and resources. This creates a powerful community where everyone thrives. The Yorkshire
Businesswoman community has given me some amazing connections that have grown into true friendships too.
2. Be a giver, not a taker
Successful networki ng is a two-way street. One of the most powerful ways to build strong relationships is to focus on how you can help others. Offer your expertise, make introductions, or share resources without expecting anything in return. When you position yourself as someone who provides value, people are more likely to want to reciprocate when you do have a request.
3. Follow up and follow through
The initial connection is just the beginning. One of the most common networking pitfalls is failing to follow up. I always try to ‘link in’ with new connections and I find networking the most effective during the ‘follow up’ stage. After meeting someone, send them a personalised message that references your conversation, and express your interest in staying in touch. But don't stop there, follow through on any promises you made during your conversation, whether it’s sending a helpful article, making an introduction, or simply scheduling a one to one over a coffee. Consistency in your follow-up shows that you are reliable, interested, and serious about building the relationship. It also makes people remember you!
4. Listen more than you speak
One of the most effective ways to connect with someone is by being a good listener. Ask open-ended questions that encourage the other person to talk about their experiences, challenges, and goals. Listening actively, not just waiting for your turn to speak, shows that you value their perspective and are genuinely interested in their business and what they have to say. This approach can help you uncover ways to help them, and in turn, strengthen your connection. At Yorkshire Businesswoman meetings, where inspiring women often speak, it’s a great opportunity to really understand what others do in their businesses, setting you up for more meaningful conversations later on.
5. Embrace your authentic self
Networking is most effective when you are genuine. Embrace who you are and let your true self shine in your interactions. People are drawn to authenticity, and being yourself helps build trust and deeper connections. Don’t feel pressured to fit into a certain mould, your unique perspective is your strength.
Networking doesn’t have to be daunting. By focusing on building relationships and truly getting to know people, you can create a network that supports your professional journey without feeling the need to be ‘pushy’ or ‘salesy’. Remember, the goal of networking is not just to collect contacts, but to create lasting, meaningful relationships that can enrich both your career and personal life. Networking has led to some incredible, lasting friendships that have enriched both my business and personal life.
York’s h2h celebrates the Good Business Charter accreditation
Organisational development consultancy h2h has been accredited by the Good Business Charter (GBC), joining companies such as Aviva, TSB and Schroders Personal Wealth and committing to raising the bar on business practices for employees, tax, the environment, customers and suppliers.
The York-based business was measured across ten components, including environmental responsibility, equality, diversity and inclusion, ethical sourcing and employee wellbeing, amongst other key factors in being a responsible business.
It comes as h2h marks a milestone year, celebrating its 20th anniversary with plans to recruit additional consultants to meet the rising demand for its services and a 53% growth in revenue over the four years since the pandemic.
Founded by Susan Binnersleyone of the first female directors at BAE Systems Marine and with three decades’ experience in HR and talent development - h2h works with global brands predominantly in STEM sectors.
Committed
Many of its first customers from 2004 continue to work with h2h today, along with more than 20 other organisations spanning sectors with global reach including science, engineering, retail, FMCG, food manufacturing, F1 and nuclear
sectors. Susan, CEO said: “Since I started the business 20 years ago, I have been committed to upholding the highest standards for our employees, partners and customers. In the current climate it is more important than ever to act responsibly and ethically, and I am proud to have received formal recognition of these core company values through the GBC accreditation.”
Chairman of the GBC Board, Simon Fox, said: “The Good Business Charter brings together 10 standards, most of which already exist, but in separate places. We have brought them together to give a coherent overall position for businesses to aspire to. We believe that the GBC has enormous potential to change business practice for good.”
Hotham Hall opens its doors for first time in 300-year history
During August, Yorkshire Businesswoman editor and Northern Businesswoman editor Gill Laidler and Brogan Huntington were invited to visit the newly restored and renovated Hotham Hall near North Cave, a short drive from the M62 in East Yorkshire.
This elegant East Yorkshire estate offers exclusive hire for bespoke weddings, corporate gatherings, parties and private dining
Hotham Hall opened its doors as Yorkshire’s newest weddings and
events venue following a three-year restoration. The 117-acre estate, based in the East Yorkshire village of Hotham, has been lovingly restored to its former grandeur over the last three years in a heritagefocused regeneration.
The elegant Georgian Estate was built in 1720 by William Burton and became a symbol of luxury and splendour for many years. 300 years later in 2020 it was purchased by Hull businesswoman, Linda Kilburn and her husband, David Kilburn CBE founders of MKM Building Supplies, who set about bringing the home and gardens back to life together with marketing & events director, Rachel Waugh.
Following the multi-millionpound restoration, Hotham Hall is now available for exclusive hire. From sophisticated weddings and corporate gatherings to parties, private dining and charity events –the estate offers a variety of elegant spaces amidst meticulously curated grounds and the picturesque Yorkshire countryside.
The venue boasts a beautiful Georgian Hall, vast grounds for
marquees and outdoor dining and five luxury suites. The next chapter of the development includes the creation of a luxury spa, private members’ club, additional events
Hotham Hall’s first wedding took place in September and the venue is now taking bookings for 2025 and beyond.
Hotham Hall’s owner and director, Linda Kilburn explains: “The
estate is a truly unique pocket of East Yorkshire and a venue like no other. Our journey began with the desire to share its charm and its history and to ensure a long-term future and legacy, so it can be preserved and enjoyed for centuries to come.
“The restoration has been a true labour of love, and we can’t wait to host guests from all over the world to share special celebrations and make memories here at Hotham Hall.”
“Following our extensive tour, we can confirm that this venue is very special. Brogan and I were particularly impressed with the Woodland Retreat, a beautiful space within woodland beside the trout filled river,” said Gill Laidler. “Following a conversation with Linda, we hope there will be an opportunity to host a Yorkshire Businesswoman lunch there very soon.”
Owners Linda and David Kilburn CBE - Andrew Crozier Insight Photography
Library and Bar - Images Andrew Crozier – Insight Photography
Drawing Room Oak Room
Grand Entrance
Leeds womenswear brand hosts summer soiree
The popular free-sizing womenswear retailer, The Style Attic, celebrated their third consecutive Summer Soiree which welcomed their loyal customers to come together for an afternoon spectacular all in the name of charity.
The event, held at the West County Football Association, brought 150 women from around Yorkshire together and included a customer catwalk, live entertainment and raffle to raise funds for Leeds charity, Paperworks.
Paperworks is a charity dedicated to enhancing work skills and wellbeing for adults with learning and physical disabilities, autism and mental health needs. They provide a solid grounding for everyone to learn new skills, progress at their own pace and enjoy being in a shared work environment.
The charity means a great deal to the family-run business with Leigh
Unwin, founder of The Style Attic and mum of two, launching The Style Attic back in 2016 after welcoming her baby girl Edie at just 25 weeks. The early arrival of Edie, and the medical help she has needed following her cerebral palsy diagnosis, flipped Leigh’s life upside down and saw her unable to continue her full-time work in the fashion industry.
When the brand was launched 8 years ago, customers were led through Leigh’s home upstairs to her very own attic where they could browse the brands on trend pieces. But following the birth of her second child, Bodhi, Leigh saw an opportunity to open The Style Attic’s first shop in Swillington. When the pandemic hit, The Style
Attic, saw the opportunity to expand their reach further by going digital so launched their online shop - but never forgetting their roots along the way.
It’s Leigh’s inspiring story, and the warm nature of herself and her family run team, that seems to have captured the attention of women of Leeds and beyond, and it’s the same community of women who never miss an opportunity to celebrate fashion and a female founder - especially when it’s for charity.
Leigh said, “Without the support of all our incredible customers and online followers, we wouldn’t have the opportunity to do what we love day in and day out and I can’t thank everyone enough for all of the support they’ve shown me, and my family from day one. Being able to host events for charity is quite honestly one of the most rewarding projects I get to do throughout the year, and to be able to support Paperworks in the process is a real honour too.”
The summer soiree was a perfect blend of fashion and entertainment. Leigh said about the occasion: “We are thrilled with the turnout and generosity shown by our customers, our brand is not just about fashion; it’s about community. This event allowed us to connect with our community and support a charity that we deeply care about so it’s a win-win all round.”
The £1000+ funds raised during the soiree will go directly to Paperworks Leeds, and The Style Attic plan to host other future events to support this same charity.
L to R: Leigh, Jade and Lisa
Clinic on a mission to support cancer patients
Louisa Scott-Priestley is proud to announce the opening of her new clinic, Louisa Scott-Priestley Permanent Make-Up, located at the picturesque Haggs Farm, part of the renowned Rudding Park Estates in North Yorkshire.
Facilities offer a range of expert services including natural-looking permanent makeup for brows, lips, and eyeliner, advanced scalp micropigmentation as a solution for hair-loss, and laser tattoo removal.
However, Louisa’s mission goes beyond beauty—she is dedicated to supporting cancer patients in North Yorkshire through her services and charitable efforts.
A passionate advocate for cancer patients, she is deeply committed
to making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. As part of her mission, she offers free laser tattoo removal for any cancer patient in North Yorkshire to remove their radiation mark tattoos. Instead of charging for this service, Louisa encourages patients to donate on her JustGiving page to The Sir Robert Ogden Centre via Harrogate Hospital, helping to fund vital support for cancer patients in the region.
"I believe that every person deserves to feel confident and beautiful,
especially those who have faced the challenges of cancer," says Louisa. "Removing radiation marks is a small but meaningful way I can help patients move forward, and it’s an honour to support The Sir Robert Ogden Centre.”
In addition to her work at the clinic, Louisa is an active volunteer with Look Good Feel Better, a charity dedicated to helping women and men undergoing cancer treatment regain their confidence and self-esteem. Louisa plays a vital role in the charity’s local workshops, where she shares her expertise to help participants feel empowered and beautiful during a challenging time.
Yorkshire Milliner unveils first couture fashion line
Yorkshire milliner Suzanne Gill proudly announces the launch of her first fashion brand, Vine & Moor. Established in May 2024, this luxury ladies wear brand is designed for the stylish, mature woman.
Vine & Moor is committed to sustainability, producing each piece to order in the UK to ensure zero waste. The collection features timeless, elegant designs that effortlessly transition from office to social events, crafted from wool cloth supplied by the prestigious A W. Hainsworth Mill in Pudsey, West Yorkshire. Known for its Royal Warrant and over 237 years of heritage, Hainsworth’s wool has adorned military uniforms, highend interiors, and top international fashion houses.
Suzanne remarked, “Bringing my first collection to life was a daunting task, but collaborating with Hainsworth guaranteed exceptional craftsmanship and superior quality. Their vibrant wool truly elevates my designs. I wanted my pieces to uplift and instil confidence in women, especially those balancing multiple
life roles. My designs are timeless, and I hope they will be cherished for years to come.”
Inspired by a vintage jewellery box from her grandmother’s desk, Suzanne’s collection showcases striking shades of amethyst, emerald, and ruby. The classic silhouettes reflect a blend of Yorkshire heritage and traditional French sophistication.
Suzanne Gill graduated with distinction in HNC Millinery from Leeds College of Art in 2010 and won an International Hat Award for Creativity within two years. Her collaborations with brands like LK Bennett have earned her a strong national and international following.
Vine & Moor is exclusively available online.
Contrast dress and coat
Audley Scarcroft Park
Where liberty and luxury meet
Set within 110 acres of beautiful land, and close to Leeds, Audley Scarcroft Park is now open and offers 172 luxury properties in and around the restored Grade II listed building.
Find out more audleyvillages. co.uk/leeds
0113 397 1405
Hellwood Lane, Scarcroft, Leeds LS14 3HS
Cause UK secures prestigious creative sector Clients
The ethical PR agency, Cause UK, has secured three significant new contracts this summer, strengthening its reputation as a leading public relations agency for the creative arts and literary sector.
The northern agency is now representing New Writing North, The Reading Agency, and the Royal Society of Arts, Manufacture and Commerce (RSA).
Based in Harrogate, Cause UK has a 14year track-record supporting charities, good causes, social enterprises, and the arts.
A B-Corp, the award-winning agency is run by sisters, Clair and Ann Challenor-Chadwick.
Its client list includes the oldest literary festival in the north, Ilkley Literature Festival, the UK’s biggest crime fiction convention, CrimeFest in Bristol, and the national network, the Crime Writers’ Association (CWA).
Cause UK is providing interim
As an agency based in Yorkshire, we’re committed to supporting northern talent. We’re also keen to show that you don’t have to be based in London...
marketing and communications across New Writing North’s portfolio of work.
New Writing North leads the development of creative writing and reading in the North of England, identifying talent, creating careerchanging opportunities, and ensuring excellent writing finds great audiences. It also produces Durham Book Festival for Durham County Council with
support from Durham University and Arts Council England.
At the end of July, Cause UK launched its campaign to build a new centre for the writing industries in the Northeast, achieving significant profile on BBC Radio 4 Today, PM, BBC R2, and BBC online. Media evaluation platform Cision reported a total reach of 243.6M for the campaign.
The Reading Agency is a UK charity with a mission to empower people of all ages to read. It champions its proven power to improve health, wellbeing, life chances and social connections. Cause UK begins work to raise profile of its annual Quick Reads campaign this September.
Quick Reads is a tool for social change, offering short, accessible, and affordable books for less confident readers or those who have lost the reading habit. The campaign culminates with a Quick Reads giveaway on World Book Day in April 2025.
Cause UK also produced its own literary festival in rural Yorkshire, the Dickens’ Festival in Malton with Miriam Margolyes, as well as hosting a number of authors talks and events over the years.
It is also a special advisor to the Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra, which the agency helped relaunch to support freelance northern musicians after the pandemic. Last year, it also pitched and produced a film for Sky Arts, Working Classical Heroes, which tells the story of a workingclass pianist from Leeds, featuring a
bespoke soundtrack commissioned from Yorkshire composer, Ben Crick.
Ann Chadwick, director said: “As an agency based in Yorkshire, we’re committed to supporting northern talent. We’re also keen to show that you don’t have to be based in London to achieve high-end PR campaigns with proven impact. We’re proud to be part of a wider movement in the north that’s working to rebalance that southern bias - particularly in the writing and publishing industries.”
The Royal Society of Arts, Manufacture and Commerce (RSA), known for its commitment to social change, has also appointed Cause UK to advise on trust and bid writing.
The RSA’s work aligns with Cause UK’s expertise in driving meaningful impact through strategic communication in the creative and cultural sectors.
Clair Challenor-Chadwick, MD said: “We are delighted to represent these three respected organisations who do remarkable and transformative work in the creative sector. The new contracts are testament to our longstanding work representing the arts, particularly literature and books, and our expertise built across the last decade or so positioning arts organisations and campaigns on the national media map.”
Clair added: “Our work with New Writing North, The Reading Agency, and the RSA allows us to expand our reach and continue to promote the life-affirming power of the arts. These partnerships align with our passion for storytelling and our mission to support cultural initiatives that make a difference, particularly for underserved communities.”Cause UK is a B-Corp agency, that also represents charities, social enterprise, and ethical businesses.
Setting the stage for celebrating success
Awards nights are more than just handing out trophies –they’re about creating an unforgettable experience that showcases achievements in the best possible light. At Production Light & Sound, we specialise in making sure your awards ceremony leaves a lasting impression.
own? We’ve got you covered. From flawless lighting and crystalclear sound to staging that sets the scene perfectly, we provide everything needed to create the right atmosphere for your event.
We’re proud to be the official Production & Lighting Partner for the Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards for the second year in a row. The feedback from its firstever event says it all: “The team did a fantastic job, making sure everything ran smoothly and looked incredible.” We’re looking forward to bringing that same expertise to the 2025 event.
Planning an awards night of your
Whether it's a smaller, more intimate affair or a large-scale industry celebration, our experienced team ensures everything runs smoothly so you can focus on what matters most – recognising the people and companies being honoured.
If you're looking to elevate your next awards ceremony, let’s have a conversation about how we can support your event and make it truly unique. Contact Sarah Buckmaster today to learn more.
“Everyone wants a piece of me!” is a phrase I often hear business owners say. It’s a sentiment that rings true for many entrepreneurs who find themselves constantly giving—whether it’s to clients, employees, or the business itself.
But this perpetual giving can leave us feeling drained, with little energy left to give to ourselves.
Think of yourself as a jug of water. If you keep pouring out your energy to others without taking the time to refill, you’ll soon find that your jug is empty. And when that happens, not only do you suffer, but the quality of your work and relationships may also decline.
Why replenishing our energy Is crucial
Running a business takes mental sharpness, creativity, and resilience all of which are fuelled by our personal energy levels. When we’re running on empty, it’s hard to think clearly, make sound decisions, or come up with innovative ideas.
Moreover, as a leader, the energy we bring to our business sets the tone for our entire team. If we’re constantly depleted, our team will likely feel the effects too, leading to a less productive and less motivated workplace. By taking time to recharge, we not only improve our own well-being but also foster a more positive and energised work environment.
Five quick and simple ways to refill our cup
Here are five simple strategies to replenish your energy, even on the busiest days:
Why we need to refill our cup - and how to do it even when time is tight
By Ros Jones - Business Coach
Running a business takes mental sharpness, creativity, and resilience...
Micro-breaks: Take a few minutes throughout the day to step away from your work. Stretch, breathe deeply, or take a short walk. These micro-breaks can help clear your mind and boost your energy.
Mindful moments: Practise mindfulness for just a few minutes each day. Whether it’s through meditation, deep breathing, or simply sitting in silence, mindfulness can help us refocus and recharge.
Nature connection: Even a quick walk outside can-do wonders for our energy levels. Nature has a calming effect that can help you reset, even if you only have a few minutes to spare.
Creative outlets: Engage in a creative activity that you enjoy. Whether it’s doodling, writing, or playing an instrument, creative expression can be a powerful way to replenish your energy.
Social connections: A quick chat with a friend can provide an emotional boost. Even a brief connection can help you feel supported and re-energised.
PreparationsarewellunderwayforthesecondYorkshireBusinesswoman Awards on 7th March following the official launch at Leeds First Direct Arena hosted by Married at First Sight UK winner Matt Jameson.
We were joined by more than 90 guests: judges, sponsors, members and previous winners to celebrate the launch of nominations and ticket sales opening online. Our thanks are extended to Leeds Arena for their hospitality, welcome drinks and delicious canapes.
Entries for nominations are free and will be open until early December giving people lots of time to nominate the business lady you think is most deserving. All nominations will then be sent to our Judges who will select winners from each category, to be announced on the night. To nominate or purchase a ticket visit www.yorkshirebusinesswoman.co.uk
We are thrilled to announce that almost all 2024 sponsors have returned for a second year as well as welcoming some new.
These are:
Main sponsors:
• Chadwick Lawrence – headline sponsor
• Lloyds Bank
• HSBC Bank
• First Direct Arena
• Fantastic Media
• Quilter Cheviot
• Huddersfield Town FC
• The Royal Armouries
Anyone interested in becoming a main sponsor can contact Gill Laidler on editor@yorkshirebusinesswoman.
co.uk or call 07711 539047.
Category sponsors are:
Equality & diversity:
Yorkshire Asian Business Association
Women in Health:
Angie Khrupe – Women in Healthcare
Small Business of the Year
HSBC Bank
New Business:
Ad:Venture
The Mandy Taylor Award: Grantley Hall
Lifetime Achievement:
Dakota Hotel Leeds
Charity of the Year:
Bespoke by Dr Bejima
Yorkshire Businesswoman of the Year:
Chadwick Lawrence LLP
Rising Star
Lloyds Bank
Women in Digital:
Bruntwood Tech
Social Media:
Gino D’Acampo Restaurant
Large Business of the Year:
Leeds University Business School
Joining us for the second year is:
Drinks sponsor
Masons Gin
Venue partner
Leeds Marriott Hotel
Event partner
Jane Clynes Events
Digital marketing
YouBee Media Entertainment
Live Band Entertainment and NVLand; production and lighting, Production Light & Sound
Launch event partner
First Direct Arena
Diamond sponsor
Phillip Stoner Jewellers
media and ticket partner
Bauer Media.
All judges have once again returned with the addition of Eleanor Baker from Lloyds Bank.
For a second year our main host for the evening in March is the talented presenter Danni Hewson. The charity benefitting from the 2025 event will be Smart Works Leeds.
Smart Works Leeds support women from a range of different backgrounds and age groups back into employment by providing coaching so they feel more confident and start believing in their own ability to succeed.
They also provide high-quality interview-appropriate clothing, shoes and accessories (theirs to keep) to wear for their job interview, and high-quality work-appropriate clothing, shoes and accessories when they get the job.
If anyone is interested in volunteering on the night, please do get in touch.Keep your eye on our social media channels for updates over the next few weeks.
Judges 2025:
Eleanor Baker Women entrepreneurs lead, social sustainability
HUDDERSFIELD TOWN
Yorkshire Businesswoman Awards now launched
Almost one hundred judges, sponsors, members and guests gathered in mid-September at Leeds First Direct Arena to celebrate the official launch of the Yorkshire Businesswoman 2025 Awards.
Hosted by Married at First Sight UK star Matt Jameson, guests enjoyed drinks and canapes, courtesy of the arena, before being involved in the countdown to the official opening of the awards.
Nominations and ticket sales are now open on the Yorkshire Businesswoman website www.yorkshirebusinesswoman. co.uk with individual tickets priced at £90 or a table of 10 for £900. You can nominate your favourite businesswoman as many times as you want, and winners will be selected from our esteemed panel of judges in early January.
Each member of the committee, Yorkshire Businesswoman founder Gill Laidler, Jane Clynes, Zoe Hands, Rebecca Hopwood and Freda Shafi, alongside First Direct Arena host Lisa Turton, addressed the event to speak about their part in the event which takes place on 7th March 2025 at Leeds Marriott Hotel, as we once again celebrate the businesswomen of
Yorkshire on International Women’s Day.
Here is a small selection of both the awards launch and the Yorkshire Businesswoman networking event that took place earlier in the day.
If you would like to purchase any of the images, you can contact them directly contact@ rothreadphotography.com
Images: Many thanks to Roth Read Photography
Leeds-based Parklane Plowden grows family team with new barrister
Leeds and Newcastle-based Parklane Plowden Chambers has welcomed a new tenant to its 40-strong family team.
Emma Gough who was called to the Bar in 2004, specialises in private children’s cases alongside financial remedy proceedings.
She joins PLP from Newcastle and York-based Dere Street Barristers where she practiced for 19 years.
In its 2024 rankings, barristers’ directory, Chambers & Partners, placed Parklane Plowden as Band 1, the highest ranking a chamber can achieve, across family and children and Band 2 for family: matrimonial finance.
Within her family law practice, Emma has been instructed in cases involving alienation, intractable hostility and international relocation.
She covers hearings at all levels from First Hearing and Dispute Resolution Appointment through to Final Hearings. Emma also acts in cases relating to care proceedings and non-accidental injuries.
Progressive
Commenting on her new tenancy, Emma said: “Parklane Plowden’s family practice has a well-established reputation throughout the circuit and is seeing impressive growth.
“I’m pleased to be joining such a progressive set and work with a team who are committed to helping make a positive difference in their casework.”
Formed in 2007 following the merger of Parklane Chambers in Leeds and Plowden Chambers in Newcastle, Parklane Plowden is home to 113 members.
Senior practice director, Stephen Render, commented: “Emma has a vast amount of experience dealing with complex, sensitive cases which require unique skills to support clients and ensure successful outcomes.
“We are pleased to have her on the family set which has seen significant expansion over the last 12 months with new door tenants and former pupils accepting tenancy.”
Chambers & Partners also placed Parklane Plowden as Band 1 across
its chancery; clinical negligence; employment; and personal injury practice areas. Additionally, the set was ranked Band 2 for inquests and inquiries.
The 2024 edition of legal directory The Legal 500 ranks Parklane Plowden Chambers as a tier one barristers’ set across five practice areas. These include chancery, probate and tax; clinical negligence; employment; family and children law and personal injury.
In addition, The Legal 500 recommends 79 of the set’s barristers across 11 practice areas.
In October last year, Parklane Plowden retained the Chambers of the Year Award at the Yorkshire Legal Awards.
Sme Leaders Forum October 2024 OVERCOMING THE PERILS THAT BLOCK BUSINESS GROWTH
Leeds University Business School is delighted to invite local small business owners and senior leaders to join us at our next SME Leaders Forum in October 2024.
Wednesday 23 October 2024 15:00 – 18:00 Nexus
Let us help you develop as a leader:
• Hear from inspiring speakers
• Carve out time to work on your business
• Work with other like-minded business leaders
• Share your own experiences
Leeds University Business School is delighted to invite local small business owners and senior leaders to join us at our next SME Leaders Forum in October 2024.
Gain insight into the challenges that businesses face (from a financial, legal, governance and competition perspective) and how to overcome them. Learn about the benefits that having a NonExecutive Director (NED) could offer you and your businesses.
The event will be hosted by Lily Newman, managing director of Morgan James Consulting, Behavioural Strategist, Leadership Consultant and Motivational Speaker.
Our expert panel will consist of representatives from finance, law, a business owner, and a NED:
• Andrew Leakey LLC
• Steve Baker, Director of Baker & Co Accountants
• Kate Goodman, Founder & Owner of Reserve Wines Ltd
A business owner and a NED will share their experiences during a Fireside Chat:
• Sherri Ward, Director of Omega Security Systems
• Ade Lingard, Executive Coach & NED
The event is free to attend. Register now via Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sme-leaders-forum-october-2024-tickets-999355789067
Inspiring women’s landmark legacy project to go before council chiefs
The city’s senior councillors are set to hear more about inspiring plans to honour some of the trailblazing women who have made history in Leeds.
Members of Leeds City Council’s executive board will next week be asked to give their backing to plans to add the names of six inspirational women to the walls of the council chamber at Leeds Civic Hall.
If approved, they will become
the first women to see their names permanently added to the prestigious chamber, taking their rightful place alongside men from the city’s past who already feature.
At the meeting members of the executive board heard that, if
approved, a series of beautiful panels matching those already on the chamber walls will be added, which will bear the names of:
The Barnbow Lasses: These women worked in the Barnbow Munitions Factory, where 35 women and girls were tragically killed in an explosion during the First World War. It remains the single biggest loss of life in the city’s history.
This project has really captured the city’s collective imagination, and it’s clear that each of these exceptional women and their remarkable accomplishments have a very special place...
Leonora Cohen OBE: A pioneer of the Suffragette movement, born in Leeds. She was famously arrested for smashing a glass case containing royal insignia at the Tower of London in protest against the government’s position on a woman’s right to vote.
Gertrude Paul: A founding member of the Leeds West Indian Carnival and the first black head teacher in Leeds. She also founded the Leeds International Women’s Group, the Afro Asian Organisation and the United Caribbean Association.
Alice Bacon MP CBE: The city’s first female MP, as a minister in the Home Office in the 1960s she oversaw the introduction of substantial societal changes, including the abolition of the death penalty, the decriminalisation of homosexuality and the legalisation of abortion.
Beryl Burton OBE: English racing cyclist who dominated the sport in the UK and abroad, winning more than 90 domestic championships and seven world titles and setting numerous national records.
Ivy Benson: Born in Holbeck, Benson was a saxophonist and bandleader, who led an all-female swing band. Benson’s band were the first entertainers to be invited to perform at the VE celebrations in Berlin in 1945.
When Leeds Civic Hall was built in 1933, men who had a close association with Leeds or who contributed in a significant way to the history of the city saw their names added to the walls of council chamber.
Over subsequent decades, the
council has been keen to ensure inspirational women from the city’s past were also recognised and undertook a public consultation earlier this year to choose suitable names.
The executive board will also be asked to approve future work which will see more inspirational women recognised within the council chamber later.
Councillor Debra Coupar, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for resources said: “This project has really captured the city’s collective imagination, and it’s clear that each of these exceptional women and their remarkable accomplishments have a very special place in the hearts of the people of Leeds.
“Honouring their legacy in this unique way will also make a very poignant and powerful statement about Leeds, it’s commitment to equality and our desire to ensure that women and girls living and growing up here can have the belief that anything is possible.”
Funding for the project will come through savings made from the outgoing council chief executive Tom Riordan not taking a pay award for several years.
Tom added: “During my time in Leeds, I’ve been fortunate to witness many historic moments for equality, including the first female leader of Leeds City Council and the first black Lord Mayor of Leeds.
“This project is a fitting tribute to the legacy of those who paved the way and will stand as a lasting monument and inspiration for many years to come.”
£15m Expansion Plans for Trinity Kitchen
It’s the biggest investment since opening with a new 6,000 sq ft roof terrace to be added, offering views over city centre.
Trinity Leeds owner, Landsec, has submitted exciting new plans to invest £15m into the expansion of its popular Trinity Kitchen concept.
Should the application be successful, it will be Trinity’s biggest investment into the centre since it opened in 2013.
The plans will create 72,000sq ft of space, including a new terrace offering views overlooking City Square. The expansion will transform a previously un-used 15,000sq ft space above Trinity Kitchen, bringing life and value back to this part of Trinity.
More jobs will be created because of the investment, with more brands being brought to the centre, enhancing the guest experience.
Trinity Kitchen transformed the idea of traditional food courts when it opened in 2013, pioneering
authentic indoor street food concept with an ever-evolving rotation of street food vans and permanent eateries.
Trinity Kitchen pioneered a unique indoor street food concept in the UK when it first launched in 2013, and is one of the city’s greatest success stories of the last 10 years...
Steven Foster, centre director said: “This investment will enhance and expand the space for the long term and build a best-in-class food and leisure destination, as we believe in its future, the current and future suppliers and operators, the new experience it will offer, and what it will bring not only to Trinity Leeds but to the city centre, the people of Leeds and the wider communities we serve.
It has been a huge success not just with the public but also in supporting businesses – almost 300 independent traders have showcased their food to an audience of 800,000 Trinity Kitchen guests each year, through street food pop-ups and permanent dining.
“Trinity Kitchen pioneered a unique indoor street food concept in the UK when it first launched in 2013, and is one of the city’s greatest success stories of the last 10 years – not just for the millions of people who have enjoyed dining here, but also the social value – from the jobs created to the food businesses that have grown their brands here, generating value for them and the local economy.”
The proposed plans for the Trinity Kitchen development will be reviewed by Leeds City Council with a decision expected later this year. If approved, works are expected to start in Spring 2025.
Lifelong learner is a successful entrepreneur
This edition of Yorkshire Businesswoman, editor Gill Laidler caught up with Sharon Jandu OBE to find out a little more about her and her career. Sharon is the founding director of the Yorkshire Asian Business Association. Here’s what she told us.
Growing up Sharon never really thought about a destination. “To be honest my focus was always on what I knew I would enjoy and where I could add value. I have been fortunate that opportunities have landed and everyone who knows me, knows I’m not one to miss an opportunity when one arises!
Sharon was a young mum when she attended Trinity & All Saints in Leeds. Her son Jagjeet was just one year old. “I used to leave him in the creche when I attended lectures then when the day was over, I would head off to my evening job which was a telesales person at Kays Catalogue on Sweet Street, taking orders online. My degree was in business studies and public media as initially I wanted to go into business, but I loved the media segment of the course, so I went into media, marketing and communications.
“My first real job was with Kirklees Careers Service where I did my post grad in careers education and guidance,” she explained. “I then went on to work for the Institute of Careers Guidance as well as being the editor of their journal, Careers Guidance Today.
“I did set up a PR & Marketing company 20 years ago that was a side hustle and even though I was born and brought up in Leeds, I chose to base the business in Bradford. This is now a global business that I am growing steadily.
“Until about five years ago, my
entrepreneurial activity had been side hustles, and I continued with a corporate career and things at the time were manageable, but giving up my corporate career I don’t now have that safety net, and I have a
FACT FILE:
Husband / partner name: I love being single
Children:
Jagjeet Jandu 37
What car do you drive?
Lexus
What do you do in your leisure time?
Watch films, eating, reading spending time with the family and the spa having treatments
Where is your favourite restaurant?
Mums’ kitchen (I eat out every day during the week)
What is your favourite food and drink?
Paneer and sparking water
Where is your favourite holiday destination?
At the moment I love Singapore, what an amazing country.
Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire?
By the seaside; Bridlington, Whitby, Scarborough
What is your favourite gadget?
my new Samsung Z6, I love It
What couldn’t you live without?
My family
growing team, so the pressure is on and every day I face a different challenge,” she explained. “I have moved from a careers education to marketing communications because I need to be interested and engaged and where I see an opportunity, channel my energy so I can take maximum benefit,” she continued. “The one thing that I have learned is having a robust plan and a brilliant team, always people who are better than me and constantly reinventing and keeping aware of trends, innovations and factors that would affect my business and ecosystems that I operate in.
“I would describe myself as a life-long learner. Four years ago, I realised that I was a good ‘intrapreneur’ and subsequently good entrepreneur, but I didn’t know how to scale and grow my business, so I decided to enrol on the MBA Executive programme at Bradford University and that was one of the best decisions I ever made. I then went on to study the MSc in Strategic Leadership at the University of Newcastle and for me, that was another game changer. The course made me really think about my values, purpose and why I do the things that I do, it is a brilliant programme about self-reflection and empowerment and creates the best version of yourself you can be. I am currently back at the University of Bradford on the MSc Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics course.”
So, what is a typical day like for this busy lady? “My day starts early with meditation, prayers and gym. I don’t really have a typical day, that is one of the things I love about my life and business, that I am always working on a fantastic project with
amazing people from all over the world,” she added, “although I do try to stick to the five-day week and leave my weekends for family time.
“At the moment I am working hard to make the NPH Ethnic Minority Business & Policy Forum, the voice and channel for ethnic minority businesses across the North of England and I delighted that I have
managed to secure support from key stakeholders.”
We asked Sharon what advice, if any, would she give to her younger self and she said: “There is no point me giving advice as I probably wouldn’t listen. I’ve always learned from my experience and mistakes, and I am a strong believer in karma, so everything happens as it should.
“If I was starting out again, I don’t think I would do anything different. My life has been a journey and there have been some tough times, mainly because of decisions I have made, but as I am getting older, I have realised that all those experiences have made me the person I am today. I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful family and amazing friends.”
Northern BusinessWoman to launch this Autumn
Due to the continued success of Yorkshire Businesswoman, we are delighted to announce the launch of Northern Businesswoman, a magazine and membership in the Northeast, covering Middlesborough, Darlington, Durham, Newcastle areas.
This new project will officially launch on 17 October at the ABC Awards at Gosforth Park Hotel and will be supported by Ammar Murza CBE and Sharon Jandu OBE. The new editor-in-chief for the magazine is Sharon Jandu with Brogan Huntington as editor, overall group editor is Gill Laidler.
Northern Businesswoman will mirror Yorkshire Businesswoman with a quality free magazine designed by Yorkshire Businesswoman
designer Rob Blackwell, and monthly networking events, hosted by Gill, Sharon and Brogan.
This new venture will also benefit Yorkshire Businesswoman members as we are encouraging members from each area to visit any of the events at no extra cost to their membership.
One member we are supporting from the start is Lisa Darwin, director and founder of FB Fashion Ball that has
been running for 26 years in Leeds. Lisa launches her FB Fashion Ball in Newcastle on 24 October and Northern Businesswoman will be the official media partner. We are also hoping to work with Newcastle Arena from the Leeds Arena Group and Dakota Hotels when they open in the New Year in Newcastle.
We are currently engaging with businesses in the Northeast area, making new contacts and preparing to publish the magazine. If you would like to be involved at all or know of a Northeast business who would like to get involved, email editor@ northernbusinesswoman.co.uk or call 07711 539047.
Sibling businesses shortlisted for five tourism awards
The teams at two Yorkshire coast businesses are celebrating after reaching the final in five categories of a prestigious tourism awards competition.
Wold Top Brewery has been shortlisted in the Remarkable Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism and the Remarkable Local Producer categories of the 14thannual Remarkable East Yorkshire Tourism Awards (REYTAs) which celebrate the quality of businesses and individuals working within the tourism industry. Sister company Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery has been shortlisted for the Remarkable Cuppa, the Remarkable Local Producer and the Remarkable Taste Awards.
Spirit of Yorkshire's marketing director, Jenni Ashwood, is delighted with the news: "Tourism is an important part of the distillery's offering, and the team is over the moon that the Pot Still Coffee Shop has been recognised by tourism chiefs in the region. We look forward to meeting our fellow finalists at the awards dinner."
Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: "The awards are a testament to the popularity of the region as a visitor destination and the range of what's on offer to see and do within Hull and East Yorkshire.
"The visitor economy is a hugely important sector for the region's economic growth and prosperity and good luck to all of the amazing finalists this year."
The teams of both businesses will find out whether they have won at an awards dinner at Bridlington Spa on 14th November 2024.
Home to Filey Bay single malt whisky, Hunmanby based Spirit of Yorkshire is a field-to-bottle distillery and is one of only a handful of distilleries worldwide that uses 100% homegrown barley to produce its whisky.
Wold Top Brewery was founded in 2003 and is located on the Mellor family farm at Hunmanby Grange near Filey. The team uses homegrown barley and water from the farm's borehole to produce a range of cask, keg, and bottled beers that are available throughout Yorkshire and nationwide.
Musings on music at Ilkley Literature Festival
Ilkley Literature Festival is inviting audiences to shuffle through a playlist of music events this October as it explores Beethoven to Britpop.
Erica Morris, director of Ilkley Literature Festival, said: “Music takes so many different forms, yet the power it has to transform our moods is universal. We’re looking forward to exploring a huge variety of musical expressions from Beethoven through to Britpop under the guidance of some extraordinary experts.”
In our modern age of call outs, cancellation, and scandals, the awardwinning slam poet Vanessa Kisuule will discuss the moral conundrums that come with fandom.
In what promises to be a bracingly honest, witty, and lively discussion, Kisuule explores how, or if, we can hold famous figures to account while loving them at the same time and whether we can, or should, ever separate the art from the artist.
Richard Morton Jack discusses his book, Nick Drake, exploring the singular talent who passed almost unnoticed during his brief lifetime. Drake produced several albums that went on to sell in the millions in the decades after his death. Richard Morton Jack draws from new interviews with Drake’s family and exclusive access to deeply personal archive material to explore his enigmatic existence.
Classic FM presenter, bestselling author, and journalist John Suchet traces Beethoven’s footsteps from his early years in Bonn to his dying days in Vienna.
Drawing on his own life and career, Suchet takes us on a personal journey, discussing how Beethoven’s music has accompanied him through the best and worst of times and demonstrating the life-changing power of great music.
Kate Kennedy, director of the Museum of Music History and Research Fellow at the University of Oxford, offers a homage to the cello. Audiences can discover the remarkable history of the cello and hear stories of four remarkable cellists and their experiences of persecution, dramatic escape, and misfortune.
The festival also presents a special evening with former Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy and her long-time collaborator, multi-instrumentalist John Sampson.
During this event, poetry and music unite as Sampson, who plays everything from the trumpet to the lesser-known crumhorn, provides a musical backdrop to Duffy's performances of her best-loved poems alongside selected modern and classic poems on the wonder of nature from her new anthology Earth Prayers.
Journalist and broadcaster Miranda Sawyer will also explore the history of nineties Britpop, exploring the era’s key artists from Oasis and Blur to The Prodigy and Radiohead, transporting us back to the beating heart of the nineties.
Ilkley Literature Festival runs 4-20 October in venues across the town. Box office on 01943 816714 or book online:www.ilkleyliteraturefestival. org.uk
John Suchet
Leave your legacy to help us support families
Every year, Martin House Children’s Hospice supports more than 550 children and young people with lifeshortening conditions, and it costs around £10.5m to run the hospice.
With just under 14 per cent of our running costs coming from statutory funding, we rely on the generosity and ongoing support of our incredible community to help fund the specialist and vital care we give to families.
That means we depend on fundraising activities, donations, grants and income from our shops to help make up the difference so we can keep running.
One of the other ways people can support us is through leaving a gift in their will. Whether it’s a fixed amount, or a percentage of their estate, leaving a legacy to Martin House can help ensure that we can continue to be there for families when they need us most.
Around one in four of the children who are cared for by Martin House are looked after thanks to gifts left in wills, so legacies play a significant part in ensuring we are there when families need us most.
Making a will is one of the most important things we should do, as it ensures that your loved ones are taken care of and that your wishes are carried out.
Each March, Martin House supports people to get their wills made with our Make a Will Month, where we partner with solicitors around our region to enable people to get their wills made for free.
While there is no obligation to leave a legacy to Martin House as part of that, giving a gift in your will means you will know that you are helping to ensure the long-term future of a charity which supports children with complex conditions throughout their lives. You can find out more about
Lindsey Burrow and Adele Mulrennan champion new
‘Ladies Only’ racing syndicate
The Dolly’s Delight syndicate will be run by women, for women, and is the first of its kind within Yorkshire
The Good Racing Co, the organisation behind the successful Rob Burrow and Graham Lee Racing Clubs, is launching a new concept racing syndicate hoping to attract female entrepreneurs into becoming part-owners of an all-female exclusive racing club.
Women are invited to buy shares in in the syndicate for Dolly’s Delight, a promising two-year-old filly with an impressive flat pedigree and an all-female team, including the hugely respected trainer, Julie Camacho. The syndicate has already secured two ambassadors committed to champion the club: former-jockey and ITV Racing presenter Adele Mulrennan
and Lindsey Burrow, wife to the late rugby legend Rob Burrow.
Horseracing is the second-most popular spectator sport in the UK, behind football. It is estimated that six million people attend the races each year in Britain, with 40 per cent of the attendees being women.
“There’s a huge opportunity for businesswomen in Yorkshire to benefit from The Good Racing Co.’s first ladiesonly racing club” says founder, Phil Hawthorne. “Traditional networking and corporate events, such as golf days and football hospitality, are aimed
predominantly at men. It’s only right that horseracing, which is a sport that allows men and women to compete equally, should design racing clubs specifically with women in mind.
“Yorkshire is the obvious place to launch this new concept club in. The county has nine racecourses, and the industry contributes over £300 million each year to Yorkshire’s economy through racing and non-raceday events. This gives women in the region a real opportunity to meet likeminded business professionals and grow their network of female entrepreneurs, with the aim of attracting new clients.”
The Good Racing Co. will be hosting a range of exclusive events for this new syndicate, including stable visits for owners and a series of networking events including spa days and fashion shows. Members will also benefit from owner’s badges on racedays and brand and business promotion.
Share options, which can be bought online, start at £1,300 for a 2.5 per cent share and £90 monthly training fee. Shareholders will also get a percentage share of prize money and future sale proceeds. Alfa Kellenic, another horse in The Good Racing Co.’s stable, has won nearly £100,000 so far in 2024.
Ambassador to the new Ladies-only syndicate, Lindsey Burrow says “I first got involved in horseracing in 2020 with Rob, and I’ve become a committed fan over the years. I love a day at the races, and there’s nothing more special than being in the Owner’s Enclosure and
getting invited to the stables for that exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience. I’m looking forward to meeting the likeminded women who join the club.”
Ambassador Adele Mulrennan says: "I jumped at the chance to be part of this new ladies-only racing syndicate, and I’m confident it’s going to be really popular. Julie Camacho is a fantastic trainer, and Dolly’s Delight has already shown lots of promise from her first three runs. In time she will be a sure winner!"
The Good Racing Company was formed in October 2020 by entrepreneur and racing enthusiast Phil Hawthorne as an innovative way to fundraise for Rob Burrow after the former Leeds Rhinos star announced he was living with MND. To date it has raised over £185,554 for Rob and MND charities through selling memberships to the Rob Burrow Racing Club. Earlier this year it launched the Graham Lee Racing Club to support the injured jockey. It now has 11 horses in its stable and members worldwide. To date, it’s had 14 winners and 21 places.
AD:VENTURE Case Study - Knotfield Vines
By: Daneile Moore AD:VENTURE
Tucked away like a secret garden, Knotfield Vines is a hidden gem in the heart of Rawdon village. And, in early 2022, it started its new chapter as a vineyard, established by best friends Laura Tillotson and Sophie Ellis, and run by a small and dedicate
The business came to fruition after land was left to Sophie by her father following his passing. The land was greenbelt and very beautiful. Initially, Sophie was at a loss what to do with it. She didn’t want the land and her father’s legacy to her spoiled, wanting to keep it private rather than sell to a developer.
Sat in the field having a glass of wine during Covid, Sophie pondered if the soil and area would be right for growing grapes for wine. Perhaps a pipe dream she thought, but even so, she had an expert to come and have a look to see if it would work. The feedback was very
positive, the conditions of the land were perfect, just needing a little work on getting the soil right.
Sophie says “Once I found out it was actually viable, I racked my brains to find the right partner. I chatted to my best friend Laura about the idea and whether she thought I should approach a contact I had who had just exited a business. Laura immediately said she wanted to be involved herself. Laura has all the skills and strengths I was looking for in a business partner, so the deal was sealed.”
The business was launched in early
2022 and Sophie and Laura quickly established Knotfield Vines with a variety of limited small batch releases, including their flagship product Rawdon, an effervescent, traditional method sparkling wine.
The vines, and the business were growing well, but the team were having to outsource a lot of the heavy work that needed a tractor, including the mowing, misting and rotavating.
Sophie told us “The timing of the preparation, maintenance and harvest of the vines and grapes is vital to the quality of the harvest and the size of the yield. Without our own machinery, we were reliant on an external contractor. While they have been fantastic, they couldn’t always work at the times weF
needed them which was impacting our ability to maximise our production. We were also spending more over the long term, so not as efficient as we knew could be in terms of costs. We were also keen to improve our website, and our marketing operations”. A friend recommended AD:VENTURE to Sophie, suggesting she reach out.
Sophie and Laura worked with business manager Bal Sembhi to complete their AD:VENTURE Growth Grant application. Bal provided one to one support to help them with their cash flow and their business plan to submit a successful application for the growth grant.
Sophie said “Bal was so engaged with our business and offered very personal support. I could tell he was genuinely invested in Knotfield and understood the nuance of what we were doing. AD:VENTURE’s approach is not one size fits all, it’s very bespoke to the business. Bal made no assumptions and was very focussed on us and what we were aiming to achieve with Knotfield Vines”.
The team were delighted when they got approval for the £10,000 match funded grant.
The grant helped towards the costs of a mini tractor, with a mist sprayer attached. This is a custom set up, which allows the tractor to mow, mist, and rotavate. Funding was also used towards marketing, branding, signage, short term external consultancy, a tasting table, and a website upgrade.
Sophie adds “Being able to bring this work in house will be invaluable and save us a huge amount of time money and resource, which will be evident immediately.
“Our yield currently is still quite small, but this investment will help us to increase productivity and keep building and scaling. Looking forward, we are excited to grow the team and in the future, we’ll be looking for a marketeer, and a full-time vine keeper. There are 6 of us on rotation now, but to scale to the level we aim for we will need a fulltime person. As the business grows, we know there will also be a need for admin, logistics and management of
orders further down the line, so we are looking forward to that!”.
Sophie says “For me personally, applying for grants has always felt intimidating and a little out of reach. I had assumed that the hoops we’d have to jump through would be so insurmountable that we wouldn’t be successful.
It’s been so much easier, and valuable than we had expected. The process has been so personable, having akey point of contact in Bal, working with us and hand holding us all the way. This has now given us greater confidence to look at other opportunities.
“Something we didn’t expect, was how working on the business plan has allowed us to hone down our future for the business at a level of detail we hadn’t considered before. Doing this in granular detail has really focussed us and been incredibly helpful.”
Aagrah Leeds is celebrating its 20-year anniversary with a special event that pays homage to the rich and opulent flavours of the Mughal era. The Mughlai High Tea is a collection of sweet and savoury treats embedding the flavour profile and the essence of royal Mughal courts to the heart of Leeds.
Known for its luxurious flavours, Mughlai cuisine was developed in the kitchens of the Mughal emperors and is characterized by its use of rich spices, dried fruits, aromatic herbs, and lavish preparation techniques that create a perfect balance of flavours.
To mark this milestone, Aagrah Leeds local chef Freda Shafi has curated a high tea menu that beautifully blends traditional Mughlai dishes with contemporary influences, making it both a nostalgic tribute to history and a modern culinary adventure.
At the launch in early September, guests were treated to an assortment of both savoury and sweet dishes that showcase the richness and diversity of Mughlai cuisine. From kofta and rich paratha, with fragrant spices to delicate desserts infused with saffron and cardamom, which included burfi, and kheer - every item on the menu is crafted to evoke the indulgence of the Mughal courts.
The savoury selection includes a variety of classic Mughlai dishes such as succulent kebabs, tandoori bites, and tender chicken tikka, all seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The sweet treats, on the other hand, reflect the Mughal love for opulent desserts. Expect to see desserts like gulab jamun, a sweet fried dough soaked in rose-
Enjoy the opulent flavours of the Mughal era with Aagrah Leeds
scented syrup, and kheer, a creamy rice pudding laced with saffron and nuts. These desserts not only offer a taste of luxury but also embody the rich heritage of Mughlai cuisine.
Aagrah Leeds part of an iconic
chain of restaurants, has long been a cornerstone of Yorkshire’s vibrant food scene, renowned for its commitment to authentic Kashmiri flavours. This special high tea is a celebration of both the restaurant’s two-decade journey here in the city of Leeds and the legacy of Mughal cuisine.
For those looking to experience the grandeur of the Mughal era through food, this high tea offers an unparalleled opportunity to savour flavours that have stood the test of time.
The Mughlai High Tea at Aagrah Leeds is not just a dining experience; it’s a celebration of culture, history, and the restaurant’s lasting impact on the culinary landscape of Leeds.
Try something different to turkey this festive season
Aagrah Leeds is widely known for its iconic dishes, particularly its expertly crafted Hyderabadi cuisine, which forms an integral part of its rich and diverse menu.
Specializing in Kashmiri and Hyderabadi dishes, Aagrah offers a unique dining experience that blends authentic spices, traditional cooking techniques, and bold flavours. The restaurant is celebrated for its signature dishes such as the Hyderabadi chicken a fragrant, slow-cooked dish, creamy and indulgent which leaves the meat tender. Also, Hyderabadi ghost a delicately spiced, slow-cooked stew of meat and lentils, both representing the robust culinary traditions of Hyderabad.
Aagrah’s menu goes beyond Hyderabadi offerings, showcasing a variety of other regional delicacies, from Karahi Gosht (a spicy meat
curry) to Seekh Kebabs and vegetarian specialties like Paneer Makhani and Tarka Daal. The diversity of their menu ensures that every guest, whether attending a large event or dining in, can experience the rich flavors of South Asian cuisine.
In addition to their year-round offerings, Aagrah Leeds has introduced its Christmas Buffet, a highly anticipated annual feature that brings festive cheer with a South Asian twist. The Christmas buffet includes a range of popular dishes, perfect for those looking to celebrate the festive season with friends, family, or colleagues while enjoying the vibrant flavours of Indian cuisine. The buffet typically includes Aagrah’s iconic starters like Chicken Tikka and Vegetable
Chicken Masala, and several vegetarian options.
The Christmas buffet is ideal for large groups, making it a great choice for office parties, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. Guests can indulge in unlimited servings of their favorite dishes, alongside festive desserts and traditional accompaniments, all within a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're craving classic Hyderabadi dishes or looking to enjoy a flavorful Christmas feast, Aagrah’s buffet is a seasonal highlight that should not be missed.
Aagrah Leeds continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for both casual dining and special events, blending tradition with innovation in every dish.
To book: Call: 0113 2455667
Aagrah Leeds, St Peters Square Leeds
Pakoras, along with a variety of mains such as Lamb Rogan Josh,
Sarah Kirby: A Printmaker’s Landscape
from sales support its work inspiring all people to enjoy and engage with art,
Claiming the coveted Christmas retail exhibition slot at YSP, Sarah Kirby will present a new series of original linocuts in the main Visitor Centre.
The Leicester-based artist is one of the UK’s leading linocut printmakers. She is inspired by British public spaces, buildings, gardens, flora and fauna, and works out of her garden studio.
Sarah has been visiting YSP throughout 2023-24 to document her favourite walking routes and landmarks at the park. She has sketched and taken photographs, discovering the various species of trees across the landscape unearthing new views and natural forms, from which she has created this new, unique body of work. All the prints will
be for sale, with prices from £150 to £350. YSP is a charity, and all proceeds
Growing up next door to Cambridge University Botanic Garden, Sarah’s father was a plant physiologist who taught her the joys of gardening and inspired her to explore and interact with nature. She has spent her life building up knowledge about the future of nature, contemplating the existence of nature for people, plants, the future, the security of food production, and the preservation of trees and wooded areas.
Sarah uses a minimalistic but bold colour palette that reflects upon the typical and expected colours of the landscape, whilst including some unexpected elements. This is perfectly illustrated in the Camellia House series which depict her YSP visits during Spring 2023 when the Camellias were
in full bloom. Here she uses the many shades of pinks and droplets of water on the glass panes distorting the pinks, making the entire space look like a magical stage set.
Sarah also employs iconic sculptures such as the Henry Moore Reclining Figure: Arch Leg (1969-70) and legacy pieces such as Peter’s Fold (2022) and Shadow Fold Stone (2007) by Andy Goldsworthy, as well as YSP’s historical buildings such as the Bretton Hall, the Bothy, the 18th century Chapel, the Greek Temple and the Shell Grotto. Pooling all of these features and attributes together, Kirby has generated an artistic map of YSP; an impressionistic illustrator’s view that culminates in A Printmaker’s Landscape.
Sarah explained: “Having the show coming up at YSP has been a great opportunity for me to really explore the Park over the last 18 months. I enjoyed YSP before but in the past have tended to head towards the exhibitions and do a relatively similar walk every time. I now have had time to explore the Park - take different routes and walks through different seasons and all weathers.
“Walking with a sketchbook, mostly on my own, has focussed my thoughts and extended the pauses along the way. I
have discovered new favourite spots, views, sculptures and trees! I love that in some parts of the Park I can feel as though I am on my own in nature, it is also a place clearly enjoyed and used by so many people in different ways all year round.
“For me the historic elements - not just Bretton Hall but, for instance, the Greek Temple in the woods, the cordoned fruit trees in the walled Bothy Garden, the mix of now mature specimen trees add to its interest and keep alive the connection and need that people have for green spaces … places where my mind can rest, and my imagination can roam.”
Amanda Peach, retail programme and development manager at YSP, said: “Sarah has a curiosity and deep interest for learning about historic landscapes and heritage sites; their past occupants and the buildings they occupied. She illustrates scenes with an alternative viewpoint, looking at places through the eyes of a skilled printmaker who is imagining the image being built up from layers of cut away lino.”
She added: “Sarah excels in linocut printmaking with her work portraying great dexterity and skill of mark making, creating texture and depth whilst showing an understanding of her medium; knowing when to cut and reveal and when not to cut. Her method is a considered, handcrafted process from start to finish and takes time to refine and create a finished print. But she still creates the whole edition of prints herself, feeling the process and the idea are entirely bound together as one.”
Sarah Kirby: A Printmaker’s Landscape opens 9 November 2024 - 22 February 2025 and all of the prints will be for sale.
Principles Leeds’ longest-running brand communications agency is celebrating the strongest start to a financial year in the business’ 9 year under current ownership.
Key to this success has been retention and growth within existing clients, plus recent new client wins.
This increased demand sparked recruitment across creative and client services with three new hires.
Firstly, Jorden Sweet rejoins Principles as account director after 18 months away including a spell with FPP, bolstering the agency’s client services team. Jorden brings with her almost 10 years of industry experience, having previously worked with brands including Warburton’s, Arla and Mr Kipling.
A further senior hire, this time in the creative team, sees Shelly Coyle
join as creative lead from Flutter Entertainment, having also worked at leading London agencies like OgilvyOne, VCCP and Saatchi & Saatchi. Joining Shelly, and widening the skillset in the creative team, is Emily Haigh-Jacobs, a designer experienced in brand creation and development.
Recent business performance figures, for the first 4 months of the financial year, have revealed that the agency has more than doubled its Q1 YOY turnover, generating a total of £701k, with gross profit in the same period also up by 70% to £368k.
Recent months have also seen Principles secure new clients, which
include securing a global brand creation and launch project for a newly formed engineering group, Ropsley limited. Plus, a trade loyalty project for Best Heating.
Over the past two years, Principles has embarked on a journey to refine its proposition and approach to be entirely focused on helping everyday brands become unforgettable, using a framework of ‘principles’ in to maximise effectiveness and deliver tangible business results for all clients.
This positive period for the business comes as it celebrates two years since the move to a four-day working week with five days’ pay for the entire company, with MD Mike Hackett reporting a noticeable improvement in stability and a healthier work/life balance for his team.
From Hospitality to Healing Art - Ellie Andrews
Dedicated to all mothers, Ellie Andrews is excited to showcase her large-scale Portraits with accompanying words and preparatory working drawings to encourage us all to reflect on how society presents the concept of motherhood.
Expressing the importance of open conversations and raw truths, Ellie’s exhibition (M)OTHER expertly captures snapshots of 5 women as they navigate life through the lens of motherhood.
Ellie Andrews’ journey from hospitality hero to artist is a captivating story of transformation born into food via Bakery 164, then launching The Gallery at Munro House and Cafe 164, and finally, Cafe 164 in Headingly, before ultimately stepping away from hospitality. Running in the background to her hospitality career was Leeds Drawing Club (Est 2007), and now with a dedicated studio, an offering of drawing courses and classes, as well as teaching life drawing in schools, she is
ready to establish herself as an artist with her first major exhibition.
Highlighting creative expression’s power in mental health, Ellie’s Portraits illustrate how uplifting women spotlighting other women can be. She compellingly demonstrates how the maternal experience can be “desperate”, “isolated”, and “all-consuming”, uncovering the toll motherhood takes on a woman’s personal identity.
Free Events as part of the Exhibition: Story Time with Lucy Jones: 17th October
Body Image and Motherhood with Vic Wright-Jones & Melanie Hadida: 26th October
Portraits Workshop with Ellie Andrews: 2nd November
Ellie says, “Throughout the first years of my daughter’s life, I found that accessing my difficult thoughts about motherhood and being able to process the challenging emotions through drawing is what has kept me mentally safe. No matter how sleep-deprived or ill I felt, I showed up to my easel and drew, and drew, and drew because I knew I would always feel better afterwards.
The idea of drawing other mothers came to me once I realised, I wasn’t actually alone in my feelings, and I was able to combine my love of portraiture with my interest in spending time with other mothers.”
This exhibition sensitively captures moments between artist & sitter, showing that art can serve as both expression and therapy. The five women depicted in the exhibition, including Leeds creative and hospitality powerhouses Holly Kragiopoulos, drector of North Star Roast and Laura Wellington, director of Testbed, Duke Makes & In Good Company are each at a different stage in their experience of motherhood. The
once clear path of ambition bends under the weight of sacrifice, and all five women - Holly, Laura, Sara, Gwyneth, and artist Ellie - found themselves navigating their own mental health, their own ambitions, and a changing world under the new name of “mother”.
Laura says, “I’m thrilled to be part of the (M)other exhibition as it beautifully explores the dualities and complexities that so many of us experience but rarely have the opportunity to express.”
As part of the exhibition, critically acclaimed author and journalist Lucy Jones is performing a reading from her groundbreaking book, Matrescence, which examines the transition into motherhood and how it affects the mind, brain, and body. Jude Rogers – Observer, “The best book I've ever read about motherhood. Myths are smashed from page one … Experimental flourishes - alongside all that beautiful, accessible writing - add to its majesty. Matrescence is essential reading, bloody and alive, roaring and ready to change conversations.”
Forming another event as part of (M) OTHER, Vic Wright-Jones and Melanie Hadida are hosting Body Image and Motherhood; a heartwarming and supportive discussion followed by a healing hormone support tea blend workshop.
Finally, Ellie’s fun and creative portraits workshop completes the poignant exhibition, working with a portrait model to gain insights into proportions and observation, as well as creative expression.
(M)OTHER:17thOctober-2ndNovember 2024
From struggling single mum to CEO
A Yorkshire businesswoman’s remarkable rise from adversity to leading a multimillion-pound MBO
At 21, Lauren Paver faced the challenges of being a single mother with no qualifications. Refusing to rely on benefits and determined to provide a better life for her son, Joshua, she returned to full-time work just three weeks after his birth. This grit and determination laid the foundation for her remarkable career in the male-dominated fire and security industry.
Lauren's professional journey began in telesales and telemarketing, eventually transitioning into the security industry, where she has spent the past 14 years. Over her eight-year tenure at Wetherby based Triton Group, Lauren has worked her way up to the role of CEO as she leads a multimillionpound Management Buy Out (MBO) backed by Close Brothers, marking a significant milestone for the company.
Confidence
Founded in 2003 by Graham Foxcroft and Ashley Wood, Triton, which specialises in security and risk management, has grown to a group turnover of £75 million. Graham and Ashley express their confidence in the new management team, particularly in Lauren’s leadership, as they step back and hand over the reins.
In a joint statement, they said, "We have every confidence in Lauren and the new leadership team as they take the helm at Triton Group. It is with great pride that we hand over the torch, knowing that the business will continue to thrive and grow under their guidance.”
Lauren's achievements at Triton include securing contracts worth over £30 million, notably a prestigious British Steel contract. Her efforts have earned her recognition as she was shortlisted for the Fire Industry Woman of the Year at the FSM Awards 2024.
Lauren has ambitious plans for Triton Group, aiming to reach £100 million in revenue within the next 3-5 years. Her vision includes expanding into new geographical markets, such as Scotland and Ireland, and introducing new product lines in fire systems.
Reflecting on her journey, Lauren says, "Being a single mother was incredibly tough and so was balancing my career with caring for my son, but where there’s a will there’s a way, I was determined to build a better future for both of us and let nothing hold us back. My advice to other women in business is to not put limits on yourself. Every challenge I faced onlyF
and I am proud to now lead Triton Group into a new era of growth and success."
Testament
Outside of her professional life, Lauren has a passion for interior design and property. She supports Joshua through his electrical apprenticeship and is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility. She aims to bring youth from disadvantaged backgrounds into the workforce and envisions creating a
young people a voice.
Lauren’s journey is a testament to overcoming adversity and breaking barriers. Her leadership style is characterised by a no-nonsense approach, working towards a goal, and a strong commitment to creating a supportive workplace. Lauren embodies the spirit of resilience and is now steering Triton Group into a new era. “I am incredibly proud to, along with my colleagues, lead Triton Group into this
new chapter,” she said. “We are ready to take Triton Group to the next level, with the collective strength of our exceptional management team.”
The MBO is supported by a strong team of experienced managers, and together, they form a unit poised to drive the company forward whilst creating a supportive and inclusive workplace. Lauren’s story marks her as a standout figure of female leadership in the Yorkshire business community.
Party Season hair with Robert Eaton
With an array of parties, office events and family gettogethers on the horizon, there’s no time to waste in getting ready for the party season.
Classic ballerina buns, messy beehives and neat chignons - the up-dos seen at the autumn/winter fashion shows are the perfect source of inspiration for your party hairstyles. So, whether you like your up-dos neat and sleek or sexy and dishevelled, take your inspiration from these catwalk styles.
Robert Eaton, art director at Russell Eaton highlights the key looks that will take you from work to play
The fishtail plait being practically popular with its messy finish. Perfect when worn over one shoulder on long hair - think Beyonce, Alicia
Keys and Anya Taylor Joy who all love a plait. It is the ideal way to add an on-trend finish to your look.
Braid small amounts of your hair while it dries in the morning before work and clamp each section with straighteners so that the braids set firm. This way, you can unpick the braids just before the party, revealing fun and modern waves.
A simple tight bun is classic, and loved by Bella Hadid, but the trick is not to scrape it back too ferociously. A modified bun flatters almost everyone with every hair texture. A side parting makes the hair elegant and easy to wear whether your face is broad or narrow. Don't try if the hair is longer than mid-shoulder blade length as the back will look bulky.
Short hair doesn't have to mean a lack of styling. Look at Florence Pugh who worked her short hair into a different look for every red carpet whilst she was filming Midsommer. Wear your shorter hair with a fringe and straight for a sharper edgy feel or sweep it back and add some waves for a more textured finish. You might not be able to create such a dramatic look with your hair alone but stock up on glamorous head bands and accessories and you could still have striking hair all through party season. Try the Eaton Blowdry School if you need top tips to creating the perfect hair by our team of hair experts in Leeds and Barnsley.
Audley Village shows off luxurious facilities with a garden party
social spaces designed to promote an active and fulfilling retirement.
The event, held in the picturesque grounds of Scarcroft Park, was designed to introduce the village’s luxurious lifestyle and community atmosphere to potential residents and visitors. Guests enjoyed a relaxed afternoon filled with light refreshments and live music, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. The beautifully landscaped gardens provided the perfect backdrop for the occasion, with attendees exploring the village’s state-ofthe-art facilities, including stylish apartments, wellness amenities, and
The garden party also served as an opportunity for residents to share their experiences of life at Audley Village, highlighting the strong sense of community and the range of services available to support independent living. With its tranquil setting and high-quality offerings, Audley Village Scarcroft Park aims to redefine retirement living in North Leeds, providing a vibrant, engaging environment for those seeking a luxurious and stress-free lifestyle. This exclusive event not only celebrated the launch of the village but also emphasized its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Audley Village Scarcroft Park recently hosted a delightful afternoon garden party for its residents and invited guests, providing an elegant showcase of this new retirement village in North Leeds.
Happy Pumpkin Spice Season!
F. Scott Fitzgerald once wrote that “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall”. I have always loved
autumn, with its coppery hues and contrasting blue skies, its moody fogs and silvery dewfall.
I’m not as big a fan of the shorter days and nights drawing in. As somebody who thrives in being outdoors, the darkening evenings often frustrate me as I struggle to fit all my tasks into fewer hours. Towards the end of August, I felt for the first time, a deep sense of sorrow that the growing season was coming to a definitive close. So, what to do to maintain a sense of purpose in my growing?
Scandi Style Gardening
This year, I’m taking a leaf out of Sweden’s allotment enthusiasts. In many parts of Sweden, they enjoy
Michaela Axford our regular gardening contributor shares tips with us on what we can plant and grow ourselves.
longer days during the summer, and then of course far shorter days in the winter. This has its advantages during the summer, but the cold of the autumn and winter make for a short growing season. In this environment, Swedish growers make good use of their poly tunnels all year round. Last year, I enjoyed emptying my poly tunnel once the tomatoes and cucumbers had died back, making it neat and spic and span for the spring. However, this year, I plan to keep it well-stocked throughout the winter. Wilfully ignoring the instructions on the back of the seed packets, I’ve deliberately started some varieties at the wrong time. A relentlessly wet spring killed off every attempt I made to grow peas and beans, so I started a new batch in midAugust. I have chosen fast-cropping varieties such as “Oregon Sugar Pod” meaning that if the weather turns cold quickly, I have the option of using the shoots as greens before they die off. However, if we are lucky enough to enjoy an Indian summer, then you never know, I may have a late crop of mangetout.
Cauliflowers have a notoriously long growing period, and another wet spring into summer might be
disastrous for a crop. To avoid this, I’ve started a handful of plants in the hydroponic kit for a strong and speedy germination, and then I’ve planted them directly into the soil in the poly tunnel. My hope is that the well-fertilised and relatively pest-free environment will allow the leaves to photosynthesise enough to provide them with strength to see them through the colder months. In Sweden, growers often dig up entire plants and pot them indoors to protect them from the cold. I have also dotted some carrots and Calendula around the larger plants to encourage pollination for any remaining insect that may be overwintering.
Meanwhile, I spent the last weeks of August devoted to fast-cropping summer favourites. Turnips are an
acquired taste, but Milan Purple Top has proved again and again to be a reliable variety and fast to mature. This turnip produces flatter, smaller roots that lift easily out of the soil when ready to eat. I’ve enjoyed them in casseroles and diced finely for pie fillings.
Harvest Hoarder
I now find myself with a glut of
Conference Pears! My pear tree has been extraordinarily fruitful thanks to a growth of green manure below its branches back in the spring. These pears are of course notorious for giving a very short window of ripeness before going mushy. This year I plan to can several pears so that I can enjoy them long after they would normally have turned to mush. I have also decided that any green tomatoes that remain in the autumn will not be wasted. My South African neighbour was bemoaning the unavailability of green tomatoes in the U.K. recently, and I shall be looking to use mine anyway I can.
Last year I was reliably informed that if I chose a second-early variety of potato, it would be possible to grow them within 100 days ready for Christmas lunch. Well, that did not work out. However, I chose to leave the seed potatoes in the grow-sacks, and I was rewarded with a lovely crop in the summer. I always find that there are some tiny and sneaky potatoes left behind in the soil, and I chose to leave them in place. This has given me with a second burst of growth. I’ve moved the sacks into the shelter of the poly tunnel to avoid late summer blight which is devastating to both tomatoes and potatoes. With a bit of luck, and regular feeding and watering, I will be enjoying tasty steamed, herby potatoes with my Christmas turkey.
Whilst we tend to be wedded to the idea that it is spring that herald’s new life, I am looking forward to finding out if with a bit of ingenuity, the colder months can also be equally as productive. Maybe F. Scott Fitzgerald was on to something!
Hello Autumn...
By Freda Shafi: Associate editor food & health
This season’s bounty is my favourite; the robust vegetables that will appear in warm and comforting stews as the darker nights draw in.
I also like to make the most of the season’s fruits too which include home-grown apples - a staple at this time of year, that come to me in abundance from around the neighbourhood. In return, I deliver
Spiced Apple sauce…
A great way to preserve a batch of apples which comes in so handy for both sweet and savoury dishes. I store it both in the fridge and freezer as it lasts a fair while; you can use it over the festive period too.
Ingredients :
• 2 kg apples peeled, cored, and chopped- Granny Smiths or home-grown
• Strips of lemon peel from 2 large lemons (use a vegetable peeler to strip 4 lengths, zest only, not the pith)
• 5 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 ½ cup of white sugar (or brown sugar)
• 2 tbsp teaspoon ground cinnamon or 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 cup of water
• Pinch of salt
Method
• Place all ingredients in a saucepan with the water and bring to the boil
• Simmer for 10 mins until apples are soft; remove lemon peel and cinnamon sticks then mash gently with a potato masher
my neighbours home cooked pies, jars of stewed apples and chutneys for everyone to enjoy. Whether you have home grown apples or not, you’ll find an abundance of beautiful cooking apples at the grocery stores and local supermarkets. So, it’s all things ‘appley’ for this month’s edition of my recipes
Enjoy! X
• Place to one side and allow to cool
• Place the sauce into sterilised mason jars and refrigerate.
The sauce will last up to 4 weeks in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
Apple strudel...
Definitely one of our family favourites this season and so versatile. A fabulous dessert, made from scratch with only 5 ingredients. Spicy, sweet, deliciousness; when eaten hot out of the oven, it’s pure magic.
Ingredients :
• 1 jar Apple sauce (recipe above)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 100g mixed dried fruit / raisins (of your choice)
• 1 sheet ready rolled puff pastry
• Icing sugar to dust
Method :
• Heat oven to 180C fan forced
• Mix the ready prepared apple mixture with the dried fruit (you can use whatever dried fruits you prefer or non at all )
• Place the puff pastry flat opening it out as shown in the images
• Place a long channel of the apple mixture in the centre of the pastry, 2cm deep then score and cut the sides of the pastry into strips, approximately 1.5cm thick as shown.
• Pull the strips across the pastry, almost plaiting it as you go
• Brush with egg wash and place into the preheated oven
• Bake until golden brown on top and apple mix bubbling out of the slits
• Serve with cream or custard and enjoy
Caramelised Onion, blue cheese and Apple tart
A brilliant snack or brunch idea. Caramelised onion tart with blue cheese, dried fruit and apple. Blue cheese and fruit is a delicious combination, in salads, on a cheese board and baked on a bed of pastry. If you haven’t tried it, I suggest you do, you will love it!
Ingredients:
• 2 apples sliced finely
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8 ounces goat cheese or blue cheese
• 1 cup mixed dried fruit
• 2 red onion, sliced
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 sheet puff pastry
• Small bunch fresh thyme (optional)
Method:
• Place olive oil in a large sauce pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stir fry for approx 10 mins until caramelised. Add dried fruit and apple and mix and stir through. Cook on a low heat for approximately 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Leave aside to cool
• Place cheese in a small bowl and break up. Add black pepper and stir through.
• Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
• Place puff pastry on the lined baking tray. Spread onions and fruit evenly over the tart, leaving a 1/2 inch border on all sides.
• Top the tart evenly with cheese and sprinkle with thyme. Bake until crust is golden, about 25-
30 minutes.
• Let the cooked tart cool for 15 minutes. Cut into approximately 2 by 3 inch rectangles. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy!
For more daily inspiration, do follow me over at Instagram : @Fredashafi_spiceitup
Kalm Celebrity wellness treatments in Yorkshire
Pilates, hot yoga, infrared saunas, ice baths and manifestation workshops are all adored by some of the world’s most glamorous celebrities. However, you don’t need to go to London or LA to experience these transformative activities — Kalm holistic wellness studio brings them straight to Brighouse.
Yorkshire Businesswoman editor recently paid a visit to Kalm to find out more about this little wellbeing gem in the heart of Brighouse.
Among the studio’s signature offerings is hot yoga, a practice loved by stars like Jennifer Aniston and Lady Gaga. Hot yoga not only improves flexibility but also boosts circulation, detoxifies the body and enhances mental clarity. Practising hot yoga at Kalm is the perfect way to clear your mind, improve your
body, and find inner balance — just like the A-listers do.
If you're looking for a workout that strengthens and tones, Kalm offers Pilates - a firm favourite of celebrities like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Sarah Jessica Parker. Known for its focus on core strength, balance, and flexibility, Pilates is the ideal way to sculpt a lean, powerful physique while protecting your joints. With regular sessions, you can build long, elegant muscles while
channelling the same strength and poise as these powerhouse women.
Kalm also offers an infrared sauna and ice bath experience, praised by wellness advocates like Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Lopez and Jason Momoa. Ice baths are a game-changer when it comes to reducing inflammation, speeding up muscle recovery, and boosting your mood through the release of endorphins. Pair this with the benefits of an infrared sauna, known for its skin-rejuvenating, detoxifying, and stress-relieving qualities, and you have the ultimate wellness duo also known as the Fire & Ice wellness routine in Hollywood.
At Kalm, wellness isn’t just about the body - it’s about aligning your mind and spirit as well. Their manifestation workshops offer a space for clients to tap into their inner potential and create the lives they dream of. Celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Ariana Grande have spoken openly about their belief in manifestation, using it to cultivate success, happiness, and abundance in both their personal and professional lives.
Finish off your wellness session with delicious and nutritious superfood coffees, herbal teas, smoothie bowls and snacks at the Superfood Café where you can catch up with a friend or just enjoy the vibes while journaling or planning your week.
Visit Kalm to experience a relaxing, luxurious atmosphere where it’s all about you!
Empowering women to master their hormones
Thirteen million women in the UK are perimenopausal and menopausal. Many struggle to access the right level of care and treatment they need to allow them to continue to thrive in their careers, relationships and safeguard their long-term health.
Six years ago, GP and Menopause Specialists Dr Louise Newson and Dr Rebecca Lewis looked to change things for the better when they opened the doors to the first Newson Health Menopause Clinic – built on the back of the frustration of women who found it difficult to obtain the right information, and the lack of funding to create a clinic on such a large scale on the NHS.
The mission at Newson Health is clear: they provide expert, evident based, individualised, and often life changing care for women experiencing menopause and hormone-related issues, empowering women with the knowledge, confidence and support they need to manage their hormonal health.
Such was the demand for their services that what started out as a small but passionate team of four clinicians has now blossomed into a thriving community of 75 dedicated healthcare professionals working across eight clinics covering the UK – including the north of England.
A key focus is the use of natural hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Unlike synthetic hormones found in many contraceptives, natural hormones are chemically identical to those produced by the body, making them safer and more effective for managing menopause symptoms. Synthetic hormones in contraceptives differ chemically from those produced naturally by the body, leading to distinct metabolic effects and risks, such as blood clots and cancer. Concerns also include impacts on brain and bone health, with increased incidents of antidepressant use and osteoporosis among women using these methods.
This personalised approach helps women relieve their symptoms while lowering the risks linked to low hormones, such as osteoporosis and heart disease. They take a holistic approach to menopause care, helping patients optimise nutrition, activity, sleep and stress reduction.
including their balance menopause support app offering free resources and tools to help women track their symptoms and access reliable information. The menopause library on the balance website houses the world’s largest collection of free menopause resources, while the weekly Dr Louise Newson Podcast –downloaded more than seven million times offers a weekly look at all things perimenopause and menopause.
Plus, they offer online training courses, including a new Menopause Masterclass for anyone looking to learn more about menopause.
By prioritising research, education, and personalised care, Newson Health is leading the charge in transforming how they approach menopause and hormone health.
Menopause should be a time to thrive, and at Newson Health we’re committed to empowering women with the knowledge and expert care to achieve this.
Dr Louise Newson
Dr Rebecca Lewis
Biostimulators the buzzword
Bespoke By Dr Bejma
As we age, our skin undergoes a range of changes—losing collagen, elasticity, and moisture, which results in wrinkles, sagging, and a dull complexion. While these are natural parts of the aging process, modern aesthetic medicine offers a variety of treatments to combat these signs and rejuvenate the skin.
Each of these treatments serves a different purpose and understanding which one is right for you requires careful evaluation by a qualified cosmetic doctor. Let's dive into how each works and when to use them, as well as the importance of having a professional consultation to ensure the best outcome for your skin.
Understanding Biostimulators
Biostimulators are injectables that work by enhancing the skin’s natural ability to produce collagen, elastin, and other important building blocks. These treatments do not just fill wrinkles or provide immediate volume, but they also trigger your body to rejuvenate and repair from within.
Polynucleotides: Revitalizing and Repairing
Polynucleotides are fragments of DNA that have a powerful regenerative effect on the skin. They work by repairing and revitalizing damaged skin at the cellular level, promoting tissue repair and increasing skin elasticity. This treatment is perfect for patients who suffer from tired, dull, or sun-damaged skin, and it’s particularly effective for improving overall skin health and texture.
Polynucleotides are often used on the face, neck, and décolletage, areas that are prone to sun damage and show the earliest signs of aging.
Hyaluronic Acid Skin Boosters: Deep Hydration
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is naturally found in the skin and plays a crucial role in maintaining moisture. However, as we age, the skin’s ability to produce hyaluronic acid decreases, leading to dryness and fine lines. HA skin boosters are designed to replenish this essential substance, deeply hydrating the skin and restoring its youthful plumpness.
Sculptra: Long-Term Collagen Stimulation
Sculptra is a poly-L-lactic acid-based biostimulator that targets deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production. It’s a unique treatment because, unlike HA boosters, Sculptra gradually rebuilds the skin’s structure from within, helping to address more severe signs of aging like volume loss, sagging, and deeper wrinkles.
Sculptra is often the treatment of choice for patients with significant volume loss, particularly in areas like the cheeks and temples, where aging can cause the face to appear hollow.
The Importance of Consultation
While understanding the differences between polynucleotides, HA skin boosters, and Sculptra is helpful, deciding which treatment is right for you requires professional guidance. Your skin is unique, and what works for one patient may not work for another. That’s why a thorough consultation with a qualified cosmetic doctor is essential.
Why Skin Boosters Are Key in the Aging Process
Skin boosters play a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s youthful appearance by addressing these fundamental causes of aging from within. Instead of masking the problem, biostimulators help the skin regenerate and repair itself.
Incorporating these treatments into your skincare routine can not only improve your skin’s appearance today but also help prevent future signs of aging.
Bespoke by Dr Bejma
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Build a brand that stands out!
By: Janet Milner-Walker - Founder of Bespoke Advantage
As a very competitive industry, to stand out in the beauty world, first impressions count.
Whilst a brand may have a great formulation, nobody is going to buy into the brand unless consumers identify that brand as the brand for them, and this starts with their visual impression. As an international beauty brand consultancy, we support our clients in crafting their brand identity, designing their packaging and marketing materials and with rebranding. As barriers to entry have dropped, thanks to technology and social media, many new beauty brands launch to market daily, however only one out of every ten becomes a true success story.
The art of marketing is the art of brand building. If you are not a brand you are a commodity. Then price is everything and the low-cost producer is the only winner...
Considerations for branding
First impressions count. We live in a multi-channel world, now more so than ever, consumers experience brands in many ways. Online, in a retail
shop, at a trade show – it is vital that the branding is consistent. Colour psychology and how this influences a consumer’s buying behaviour is an important consideration as is font type which conveys tone of voice.
Design, packaging, product componentry is instrumental and needs to be aligned to the brand’s values and ethos. When building a brand think of the brand as a person, whilst the look of a brand is extremely important so is the brand’s tone of voice, as this extends from its content to videos and social media. When creating content, authenticity is a big buzzword today, not only does a brand needs to look the part, it needs to sound the part and deliver on its promises. Much has been written about the importance of developing a personal brand not only for smaller indie beauty brands; multi-national companies are very aware of the importance of being personable, and they have changed the way in which they communicate with their audience.
Neuroscience proves that storytelling is the best way to capture people’s attention and build close bonds. A brand’s story recounts events that sparked the inception of a business, the highs and lows they experienced along the way and how the brand has arrived at its current position today. Crafting a memorable brand story enables consumers to empathise with the brand and connect and care about the company, their values and beliefs. Whilst a brand story is important,
businesses can continuously build upon storytelling through their social media channels and PR.
Why rebrand?
As a natural evolution of a business there comes a time when a business may need to rebrand. Beliefs, priorities, tastes, and outlooks change over a time. New competitors may have entered the sector, or perhaps a company’s target audience has shifted, their product offering has changed, or they have introduced a number of brand extensions. Rebranding can be an exciting undertaking. It
ABOUT JANET MILNER-WALKER
Janet Milner-Walker is the founder and managing director of Bespoke Advantage, and BeautytoLife. She is an international speaker, a trusted advisor, and a freelance writer. Bespoke Advantage is a London based brand consultancy working with awardwinning brands, retailers, investors, trade bodies and embassies to support them in developing and growing their brands across the marketplace – visit:
www.thebespokeadvantage.com.
provides an opportunity for a company to refresh their image, strengthen their market positioning, boost their reach, and improve their bottom line. But when is the right time to implement these changes and how drastic does a rebrand need to be?
Sales may have slowed down, perhaps a company is finding it difficult to stand out, or they may need to revisit their marketing strategy to align with their target audience’s values and needs. A simple fix may include tweaking their logo, colours, tone of voice. Perhaps the company’s vision has changed – as companies grow, vision, mission and goals for the business may shift over time.
Reviving a brand
Several beauty brands are focusing on rebranding. Huda Kattan recently announced a rebrand, with a new logo, brand identity and packaging due to launch the end of 2024. In her own words ‘It is the brand I would have developed had I had the means to do it, had I known that we would have developed a full brand’. Maybelline New York, the world’s leading cosmetic brand has celebrated 110 years, in a recent press announcement they stated that they would be reviving the brand through reintroducing its jingle ‘Maybe it’s Maybelline’ with a campaign launching beginning of September 2024. Pulling upon the strings of nostalgia, this modern vibe represents the energy of New York, the self-confidence and vitality of Maybelline whilst paying homage to the original jingle first created in the 90’s.
Building a memorable brand that stands out is critical in today’s fast-moving digital world where new brands are being discovered daily on TikTok. Consider colour, packaging, tone of voice, sounds and the art of words, when creating a brand that is built to last.
Rodney Pedroza Portraits London
Menopause myths debunked: What you really need to know
By Simone Thomas, Founder of Simone Thomas Wellness
When it comes to menopause, there’s no shortage of myths and misinformation. As a wellness expert and founder of Simone Thomas Wellness, I’m passionate about empowering women to embrace this life stage with confidence and knowledge. Menopause isn’t something to dread, but instead, a natural transition that can be managed with the right mindset and support.
Let’s dive into some common myths about menopause and uncover the truth behind them, along with practical tips to make this phase of life smoother.
Myth 1: menopause only Happens when you’re older
Many women believe menopause is something that only happens when you're well into your 50s or 60s. The truth? Menopause can start earlier than you think. Perimenopause, which marks the transition into menopause, can begin as early as your 30s or 40s. During this phase, your body starts experiencing hormonal changes that
can lead to irregular periods, hot flashes, and mood swings. Understanding that menopause doesn’t have a set timeline can help you prepare for the changes.
Myth 2: menopause drains your energy completely
While fatigue is a common symptom, menopause doesn’t have to leave you feeling drained all the time. This is where proper nutrition and lifestyle adjustments come in. Foods rich in plant estrogens, such as apples, oats, corn, and soy, can help balance hormones naturally. Incorporating healthy fats like those found in mackerel, sardines, and
nuts can also boost energy levels and
Don’t underestimate the power of B vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and calcium, either. These nutrients support red blood cell health, bone strength, and mental clarity, making you feel more energized and capable of facing your day with vitality.
Myth 3: hot flashes are inevitable and unbearable
Hot flashes may seem like the hallmark of menopause, but not every woman experiences them in the same way. While some may have severe episodes, others may have mild or no symptoms at all. If hot flashes are disrupting your life, there are ways to manage them naturally. Foods rich in vitamins C and E, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, help regulate body temperature. Omega fatty
acids, like those found in fish oil and flaxseeds, can also lessen the intensity of hot flashes.
Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing and yoga, can help you stay calm and centred when hot flashes strike. Avoiding triggers like alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods can also reduce the frequency of these episodes.
Myth 4: menopause signals the end of your sexual life
This myth can be particularly damaging to a woman’s sense of self. While it’s true that vaginal dryness and changes in libido can occur during menopause, it doesn’t mean your sex life is over. There are many natural solutions to enhance intimacy during this time. Black cohosh and chasteberry are two herbs known to help with vaginal dryness and hormone balance, which can improve overall comfort and desire.
It’s also important to open the lines of communication with your partner. Menopause is a shared experience, and talking about it can lead to stronger emotional and physical intimacy.
Women’s health
issues beyond menopause
It’s important to remember that menopause is just one chapter in a woman’s health journey. Many other health issues often go overlooked, yet they can significantly impact your quality of life. Issues like premenstrual syndrome (PMS), endometriosis, fertility challenges, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affect millions of women, but are not always discussed openly.
In my work at Simone Thomas Wellness, I offer natural approaches to these conditions, focusing on
holistic well-being. For example, women experiencing endometriosis or ovarian cysts can benefit from an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega3s, fresh vegetables, and whole grains. Similarly, addressing fertility challenges or PCOS often requires a focus on hormone regulation through balanced nutrition and mindful living.
Myth 5: once menopause starts, there’s nothing you can do
Perhaps the biggest myth of all is that menopause is something you must “get through.” In reality, you have a lot of control over how you experience this phase. Making lifestyle changes—such as adjusting your diet, managing stress, and staying active—can greatly improve your quality of life.
At Simone Thomas Wellness, I always emphasize that menopause isn’t the end of anything. It’s a new beginning, a time to focus on yourself and prioritize your health and happiness. Supplements like co-enzyme Q10 for energy, boron for hormone stabilization, and selenium for easing hot flashes can be incredibly helpful. But even more important is
self-care—whether through exercise, hydration, mindfulness, or finding a supportive community of women going through the same thing.
Final thoughts
Menopause can be a challenging phase, but it doesn’t have to define you. By busting the myths around menopause and approaching it with knowledge, you can feel more empowered to take charge of your health. Through mindful nutrition, natural supplements, and lifestyle changes, this stage can be an opportunity to focus on your well-being and embrace the changes ahead.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Reach out for support when you need it, whether through health professionals, friends, or wellness experts like me. You’ve got this!
Simone Thomas is the founder of Simone Thomas Wellness, a leading expert in women’s health and nutrition, and an advocate for holistic approaches to menopause and beyond.
Get ready to own your Autumn style with confidence and flair!
Lisa Darwin transformation coach, fashion stylist & speaker
As the leaves change and the air grows crisp, it’s time to step into a new season of style. Autumn fashion offers an exciting mix of cozy layers, rich textures, and bold colours, allowing women to showcase their personal flair while embracing comfort. This season’s trends are all about balance—mixing timeless pieces with modern updates. To help you navigate your Autumn wardrobe, here are several top tips for personal styling that will keep you looking chic and confident all season long.
Master the art of layering
One of the most practical and stylish aspects of Autumn fashion is layering. The key is to create dimension without bulk, so choose lightweight base layers such as a fitted turtleneck or a simple silk blouse. From there, add statement outerwear like a tailored trench coat, a leather jacket, or an oversized cardigan.
Top Tip: Try mixing textures within your layers for a more dynamic look. Pair a cashmere sweater with a leather jacket or a denim shirt with a wool coat. The contrast in fabrics will elevate your outfit and add sophistication.
Invest in versatile knitwear
Knitwear is an Autumn essential, and this season, it’s all about making bold statements with your cozy pieces. Oversized sweaters, cableknit cardigans, and fitted knits in deep Autumnal hues are everywhere. These versatile pieces work for both casual and polished looks.
Top Tip: For a flattering silhouette, balance your oversized knits with slim bottoms like skinny jeans, leather leggings, or tailored trousers. Add a belt to cinch your waist and give structure to your outfit, preventing it from looking too bulky.
Play with Autumn’s rich colour palette
Autumn is embracing the season’s
classic earthy tones, think burnt orange, mustard yellow, and forest green while also welcoming pops of vibrant colour. Jewel tones like amethyst purple, sapphire blue, and ruby red are making a bold impact this year.
Top Tip: To create a cohesive look, choose one vibrant colour and balance it with neutral shades like beige, cream, or charcoal grey. If you’re feeling adventurous, try colour-blocking by pairing two jewel tones together, such as deep emerald and burgundy, for a rich and luxurious outfit.
Mix textures for a luxurious look
Textures are at the heart of Autumn fashion and mixing them can take your outfit to the next level. Pair soft, cozy fabrics like knits or wool with edgier materials such as leather, suede, or denim for an outfit that is both stylish and tactile.
Top Tip: Try pairing a velvet dress with a leather jacket or wear a wool coat over a satin blouse. The juxtaposition of hard and soft materials not only adds visual interest but also gives your look a sense of luxury and depth.
Update your outerwear game
A statement coat is a must-have for Autumn. This season, look for classic silhouettes like trench coats, oversized blazers, or belted wool coats in rich Autumnal hues. A good coat not only keeps you warm but also serves as the finishing touch to your look.
Top Tip: Opt for coats with bold details like large buttons, wide lapels, or unique textures like plaid
or houndstooth patterns. An eyecatching coat can instantly elevate a simple outfit and make you stand out in a crowd.
Don’t be afraid of tailored suits
Tailored suits are making a strong comeback this Autumn, offering a sleek and polished alternative to casual wear. Opt for suits in classic Autumn shades like rust, camel, and olive, or go bold with jewel tones.
Top Tip: If you want to soften the sharpness of a suit, pair it with a cozy knit underneath or swap the blazer for a longline cardigan. Finish the look with ankle boots or loafers for a chic yet approachable outfit.
Accessorize wisely
Autumn accessories can pull your look together and add an extra layer of style. Think wide-brimmed hats, oversized scarves, and statement belts to define your silhouette. For bags, structured totes, and leather crossbodies in warm tones are the go-to.
Top Tip: Use accessories to add a pop of colour or texture to your outfit. A bold scarf in a contrasting colour or a textured leather handbag can make a big impact. Opt for gold jewellery, which complements the warm, earthy tones of Autumn fashion beautifully.
Footwear focus: boots for every occasion
Boots are the footwear star of Autumn. From ankle boots to kneehighs, this season offers a variety of styles for every occasion. Chunkyheeled boots, combat boots, and sleek leather styles are all popular options this year.
Top Tip: Ankle boots are perfect for everyday wear and can be paired with jeans, skirts, or dresses. For a more statement look, opt for kneehigh or over-the-knee boots, which look particularly striking when paired with a midi skirt or dress.
Incorporate midi skirts for elegance
Midi skirts are the perfect transition piece for Autumn, combining elegance with practicality. Whether pleated, A-line, or pencil style, midi skirts pair beautifully with chunky knits or tailored blouses.
Top Tip: For a polished look, pair your midi skirt with heeled ankle boots and a fitted turtleneck. Layer a structured blazer or longline coat over the top to complete the ensemble.
Focus
on fit and comfort
Autumn fashion is about feeling good in what you wear. Ensure your clothes fit well and allow for movement, especially when layering. Comfort doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style, so find pieces that let you feel both cozy and confident.
Top Tip: When buying new Autumn staples, pay attention to the fit and fabric. Choose materials that are breathable but warm, like wool, cotton blends, or cashmere. If your outfit is comfortable, you’ll naturally carry yourself with more confidence and grace.
Conclusion: elevate your autumn wardrobe
This Autumn, fashion is all about embracing the season’s rich textures, bold colours, and effortless layering.
With these personal styling tips, you can create looks that are not only on-trend but also a true reflection of your unique style. From cozy knits to tailored suits, let your wardrobe speak volumes while keeping you warm and stylish all season long.
Autumn 2024 colour trends for women: A vibrant blend of cassics and bold hues
This Autumn, the colour palette is a perfect fusion of timeless earthy tones and striking jewel shades. Here’s a quick overview of the season’s top colours:
1. Earthy Neutrals: Rich, warm tones like burnt orange, mustard yellow, camel, and rust continue to define Autumn fashion, offering cozy, versatile options that are easy to mix and match.
2. Jewel Tones: For those wanting to make a statement, deep shades like emerald, green, sapphire blue, amethyst purple, and ruby red add
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3. Bold Accents: Pops of vibrant colours, such as cobalt blue, magenta, and sunset orange, are making their mark, injecting energy into more neutral outfits.
4. Classic Neutrals: Timeless shades like charcoal grey, beige, and chocolate brown provide a grounding base for the bolder hues and can easily be paired with both earthy and jewel tones. Autumn 2024 is all about balancing these colours, whether you’re embracing cozy classics or adding a bold touch with jewelinspired accents.
If you would like a personal Styling Appointment, please contact Lisa Darwin E:lisa@ lisadarwin.com www.lisadarwin. com @lisadarwin1111 #lisadarwin
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