International Women’s Day 2024

Emma is a wearer of many hats! She is the shopkeeper, stock-sourcer, marketing manager, sales department, content creator, event planner, head of the customer hype club and newly appointed manager to her wonderful shop assistant, Jailbird Pip!

Miriam does a bit of everything, never knowing what the day will bring! From the day-to-day running of the shop and taking care of the team to hiring new employees, training, overseeing orders, keeping to budgets and of course making sure our customers enjoy their time with them.

Lincoln’s Store is at the heart of the Lush company and they pride themselves in delivering tailored 5* customer experiences and love building relationships within our community through events and in-store parties and workshops. They are proud to have a 100% company Mystery Shop Report and a GEM Award under their belt too.

Despite the busy days in Bennett’s, Rachel always strives to provide exceptional service to clients, while managing the daily operations of the business.

Day to day running of the business includes financial management, marketing and promotion, compliance and regulations and her own professional development – all alongside her duties as a hands-on beauty therapist! Rahel carries out treatments from their extensive menu, including anything from lash lifts and brow waxing to Botox and fillers.

Responsible for the strategic oversight of the commercial team within the hotel, Harriett’s role encompasses various outlets such as meetings and events, and accommodation.

Overseeing the Waterside Shopping Centre’s operation, supervising facilities services contractors, and regularly liaising with tenants, providing a high level of customer service. Ultimately, it’s the role of the Centre Manager to create a positive shopping experience, whilst also having full engagement with all stakeholders.

Overseeing the whole operation of the nightclub, planning events, managing the team, licensing and health and safety compliance and of course all the fun bits that pop up along the way! One thing is certain, no two days are the same and I've learnt to always expect the unexpected.

"When I dreamt up Jailhouse Frock I wanted to create something different and for it to go beyond what you would expect and I’m really excited to be able to say that Jailhouse Frock is so much more than just a shop. I want all my lovely customers to feel part of something special, a community of like-minded individuals where you can feel free to express yourself, be the most authentic, confident version of yourself and also encourage others to feel the same.

The Bad Girls club has no age or appearance. It’s an attitude. A club for kind, courageous and fabulous individuals to come together and celebrate themselves and one another! I host regular events where people can come and meet new, like-minded people. I also try my best to go above and beyond for my customers to make them feel special the moment they walk through the door. I give custom styling advice, offer private out of hours shopping appointments for those who work long hours or have a disability and need additional support for their visit.  I have even been known to baby-sit at the till whilst new mums can indulge in that much needed retail therapy."

"I am inspired daily by the people and women in my life, their courage, caring nature, strength and compassion. I try to support them by giving all of this back in return. I am always willing to listen and learn and try to create an inclusive environment for everyone both at work and otherwise."

"I am inspired by others, in helping, coaching and sharing my skills and knowledge in the workplace.   It is easy to spot strong women, they are the ones who are lifting each other up."

"As a salon owner, I draw inspiration from the transformative power of beauty and self-care, witnessing how a simple haircut or beauty treatment can boost confidence.

Within Bennett’s Hair and Beauty, I strive to create a safe space and a welcoming environment where all women feel valued. I feel that beauty is empowerment so we offer high-quality services to boost the confidence of our clients, we want them to leave the salon, not only looking good, but feeling good too!

Our salon team embodies the spirit of headstrong, sassy, and independent women, exuding confidence and empowerment in all they do. Each member brings unique flair and expertise, seamlessly collaborating to create a dynamic atmosphere.

We support each other, it’s like we are each other’s cheerleaders, cheering each other on from the side lines. We ensure we have regular meetings to support  growth and  development."

"I started my working career at 15 in a hotel which sparked my passion for hospitality. Working in an industry I love and being surrounded by passionate people inspires me to achieve more. Managing a team of women myself, it is important to understand the needs of each individual personally and professionally and ensuring I am on hand to listen, support and guide. I want to ensure that they feel they have someone on their side."

"I work with an amazing group of people, who are more like a second family than work colleagues, the successes in my career have stemmed from their influence on my approach to work, life and Management style. Management within the hospitality industry is male dominated, therefore I hope that my principles and passion inspire the women around me, and our team at Home, to see more women succeed into Management within the industry."

My lovely mum

She is one of the kindest, selfless people I know and she inspires me to try and be the best version of myself every single day. She’s also one of my biggest business inspirations! When she turned 50 she decided she really wanted to do something for herself and so she started painting again after many years. Now, almost 8 years on, she has a thriving international art business selling her beautiful original animal portraits, prints, cards and homewares!

Female Business Owners

I find women who are business owners very inspiring as they motivate me on my own journey to becoming a business owner.

Colleagues and Managers

Many people in each place I have worked, from my first manager in Debenhams to Nic Carrass, Lush Retailer/Coach and Strategist

Kris Hallenga, founder of CoppaFeel

Her unwavering dedication to raising breast cancer awareness and promoting early detection is inspiring. 

Having worked closely with her on several fundraising events has given me firsthand insight into her passion and impact. Kris's personal journey and commitment to educating others deeply resonate with me, inspiring me to make a difference. 

Witnessing her resilience and positivity motivates me to continue supporting her cause and advocating for breast health awareness, inspired by her tireless efforts to make a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer.

A previous Director of Sales at a former hotel

She truly influenced my career path and not only recognised my abilities but also invested in developing them by offering me a chance to join the sales team. She played an important role in propelling me to my current position as a Director of Sales. I also admired her as a working mum who successfully balanced her career and family responsibilities.

My mum

She always told me to never rely on anyone but myself, and that this would give me the freedom and opportunity to make my own choices and accomplish my goals… she was absolutely right! Not only did this influence my career path and help me get to where I am today, but also taught me the independence needed to go further in life and push myself out of my comfort zone.

My Mother

I was brought up surrounded by a multitude of strong women in my life but my Mother is my biggest inspiration, she is the strongest and most resilient woman I know. Throughout my life she has taught me that I can achieve whatever I want to, to stand up for what is right, and she has taught me to be a voice, not only for myself, but for others when they need it.