International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated annually on March 8th, honours the achievements of women across all aspects of life – social, economic, cultural and political – whilst also advocating for gender equality.
Surrey has a plethora of successful women achieving amazing things day after day. These remarkable women are revealing all in this featu=-re on what it’s like being a Woman in 2025 and juggling their existence in a somewhat still, male dominated world. Plus, listen to their personal advice to women!
Let’s take this month to really appreciate the women we have in Surrey and in our lives! Here are a few we have interviewed for this IWD Feature. Enjoy reading their inspirational stories.
MIZI ATKINS, OWNER, MIZI ATELIER
After moving from New York (a fashion metropolis) to the UK 22 years ago, Mizi discovered her love for horse racing and the art of hat-making. When she couldn’t find headwear that she loved for events, her passion for wearing unique pieces met her creativity. What started as a personal quest for making unique headwear (just for herself initially) has now blossomed into a stunning fashion collection that reflects excellence and meticulous attention to detail.
With the support and encouragement of friends and family, Mizi now crafts exquisite bespoke pieces of headwear that resonate with sophistication and style for a diverse range of occasions, such as Weddings, Royal Ascot, Henley Regatta and other social events.
Mizi advocates positive changes in the fashion industry, promoting sustainability and ethical practices by using biodegradable material, sourced locally to reduce their carbon footprint. She also revamps existing headwear to make brand new fashion items, keeping costs and waste to a minimum.
HOW DID YOU MANAGE TO FORGE A SUCCESSFUL CAREER FOR YOURSELF IN FASHION?
With passion, determination and an eye on competition, I create unique timeless headwear. It has taken a year of dedication to reach where I am today, and in the world of millinery, “patience” is the key to success.
HAVE YOU OVERCOME ANY DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE?
In the corporate world, once or twice, but not in my own millinery business.
WHAT OTHER CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AND OVERCOME?
Engaging and educating people: primarily about sustainable fashion, and communicating its value and impact.
Raising Awareness: Many remain unaware of the environmental and social impacts of fast fashion.
Cost Perceptions: Sustainable fashion is often seen as expensive, deterring some consumers.
Changing Habits: Shifting from fast fashion to sustainable choices requires altering ingrained shopping habits.
Improving Accessibility: Expanding the reach and inclusivity of sustainable fashion brands.
By addressing these challenges, I have inspired more people to embrace sustainable fashion to not only look good, but do good as well!
WHAT DOES BEING A ‘POSITIVE FEMALE ROLE MODEL’ MEAN TO YOU?
To me, being a ‘positive female role model’ involves embodying qualities and values that inspire, motivate, and empower others. She leads by example, offering guidance and support to others, and actively mentoring those who seek her wisdom and experience. I am passionate to uplift, empower, and positively influence those around me, creating a ripple effect of inspiration and positive change.
WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY?
Coco Chanel for design: Timeless, classic and chic
Anna Wintour: Iron Feast and velvet gloves
Stella McCartney: Known for her commitment to sustainability by using organic fabrics, renewable energy and avoids harmful materials like PVC.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREERS?
Believe in yourself! Trust your heart; but always bring your head along for the journey. Embrace constructive feedback, especially from those who have your best interests at heart.
Stay unique and authentic, yet keep an eye on the market and your competitors.
SHYNE ADCOCK, OWNER, SHYNEFEST
Entrepreneur Shyne was the mastermind behind the award-winning family festival ShyneFest.
The festival (held at Merrist Wood in Guildford, running on the last weekend in May annually) has established itself as an integral part of the Surrey music scene. This year marks the 10 year anniversary of ShyneFest too.
Shyne (she named the festival after herself as it started out as a 40th birthday party on a farm!) has secured some top UK bands over the years including Republica, Dodgy and Reef. These top bill musical artists play alongside a plethora of great local indie and tribute bands each year, sometimes up to 40 in just one weekend!
Shyne’s also organised extra entertainment for ShyneFest including silent discos, face painting, art and craft stalls and gastronomical delights. At the heart of it all though of course, is the music.
HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE A FEMALE CONCERT ORGANISER/ENTREPRENEUR?
It’s a bit of a rollercoaster! I didn’t set out to be in this industry, ShyneFest started as a personal celebration for my 40th birthday on a friend’s farm. Over the years, it’s grown into something much bigger and I’ve learnt a lot along the way. As a woman in this field, I often find myself quietly navigating a space that’s traditionally male-dominated, but I’ve come to see it as an opportunity to bring my perspective and creating something meaningful for people. I care deeply about making sure everyone feels welcome and heard, which is central to the atmosphere at ShyneFest. It feels great to have carved out a space where women, families and people of all backgrounds can come together and enjoy music, community and support one another.
IS IT TOUGH BEING A FEMALE BOSS IN A TYPICALLY MALE-DOMINATED INDUSTRY?
It can be challenging, but not for the reasons you might expect. I think the toughest part is battling the “imposter syndrome”, which I think a lot of women experience. The trick is finding confidence in my qualities and using them as my strength. Yes, sometimes I’m the only woman in the room, but I’ve never let that stop me from standing my ground and making decisions based on what feels right.
HAVE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME ANY DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE?
I’ve faced moments where I’ve had to prove myself, but I wouldn’t necessarily say I’ve encountered outright discrimination (I have in previous jobs, but not here). There have been times where I’ve had to push harder or speak louder to be heard when it comes to the festival.
WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AND OVERCOME?
Not having the formal background or training in the music or event industry has been a challenge. Everything I’ve learnt, I’ve had to pick up along the way. But I think the greatest achievement is that ShyneFest has grown organically from a small celebration into something that brings joy to so many people. It’s taught me that passion and persistence are as important as formal qualifications.
WHAT DOES BEING A ‘POSITIVE FEMALE ROLE MODEL’ MEAN TO YOU?
Being a positive female role model means being authentic and showing others that it’s okay to be imperfect. I think it’s so important to show my children that they can follow their own path, even if it’s unconventional. It’s also about encouraging and supporting other women through the ups and downs. I belong to a fabulous networking group, full of women who do just that and some who have become dear friends.
WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY?
My mother has been one of the most significant influences in my life. She’s a sculptor and she’s always been someone who broke the mould. Growing up, I watched her challenge traditional expectations and forge her own path, both in her personal life and in the art world. She didn’t follow the typical route, she is unconventional, unapologetically herself and unafraid to express her creativity in ways that are uniquely hers.
Her approach to life has inspired me to embrace my uniqueness, to not be afraid to step outside conventional boundaries and to pursue things that bring me joy. My mother’s artistic, bold and often defiant nature helped shape my own outlook on life, showing me that it’s okay to be different and to trust my own instincts.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREERS?
My advice would be: don’t be afraid to start small and don’t feel like you have to have everything figured out. It’s okay to take risks and it’s okay to make mistakes. In fact, mistakes are really important, as those are often the most valuable lessons. I remember my grandmother saying to me when I was little “If at first you don’t succeed, try and try again”.
Find something you care about and let that passion drive you, even if you feel like you don’t belong in that space at first. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and will support you.
RENU BALLANTINE, OWNER, CHEF RENU B
Renu is a successful hospitality business founder with nearly three decades of corporate and finance director experience. Since Renu retired from the corporate world 4 years ago, her entrepreneurial spirit has seen her set up several diverse businesses which have leveraged her experiences from her corporate world whilst following her passion for food.
Chef Renu B creates beautifully presented, locally sourced, and flavour packed plates of food in client’s homes to help them celebrate their special occasions. Her expertise lies in catering for those with specialist dietary needs to ensure they are “included” at every celebration and her enthusiasm for collaboration has seen her work with local vineyards such as Albury, cook for charity supper clubs at All Things Nice and is an active advocate for food poverty, supporting Epsom Pantry, Merstham Mix Community Café and Empower Her UK locally.
She has also delved into the world of writing with her recently published book “From Boardroom to Bouillabaisse” and is about to launch “Vessa”, an exciting new AI Dining Assistant that’s set to transform the way people discover and book restaurants.
HOW WAS IT CARVING A SUCCESSFUL CAREER FOR YOURSELF BOTH IN THE FINANCE WORLD AND THEN AS A CHEF?
As a female engineer who started her corporate career at an oil refinery, carving out my career meant I had to establish respect in a male dominated world early on. For me that was to focus on the commercial side of engineering and leave my technical side firmly in my degree textbooks. I discovered this was a unique niche, where I could bridge the gap between technical and finance teams; helping technical teams understand the financial impact of their decisions and guiding finance teams by simplifying the technical aspects of the business. I leveraged my interpersonal skills, often overlooked in engineering education, which enabled me to transition seamlessly from working on an oil refinery to consulting for a diverse range of clients as a Management Consultant in central London. It was a shift that not only expanded my expertise but also let me finally step into those killer heels and power suits. After corporate, transitioning into the culinary world felt natural. Cooking has always been a passion, and my experience as a private chef in the US during an expatriate assignment gave me a strong foundation. With financial stability and the time to invest in myself, I pursued culinary school, and through continued self-learning and dedication, the rest fell seamlessly into place.
HAVE YOU OVERCOME ANY DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE?
Discrimination is one of those words that is really quite emotive. Everyone has walked a different path and what is discrimination for one might not be for another. I always describe my experiences based on what I think should have been appropriate at the time, and if it wasn’t, then I could call it discrimination. In 1989 as an eager, young, engineering undergraduate, full of self-belief, I applied to work in Japan for an undergraduate placement year. With my maiden name, it wasn’t obvious if I was male or female. It wasn’t until I applied for my uniform that the car company in question realised that I might not be a male. And unfortunately, the role was pulled from under me only a few weeks before I was due to leave. Was this discrimination? Absolutely! But at the time, this was normal, even though the Sex Discrimination Act was passed in 1975 in the UK. This taught me a great lesson; just to have an opportunity, I had to be better than my male counterparts. It did unfortunately create an awareness in me, which made me notice discrimination a little more than say, if this experience hadn’t have happened. And throughout my decades in corporate, I would say I faced discrimination at least once a year despite the Equalities Act being passed in 2010 in the UK. Be it the assumption that I was the group admin, rather than its manager in larger groups, or to being asked to order lunch or take notes in a team meeting, just because I’m the only one in a skirt. I refused to let this define me. Instead, I used every opportunity to share my experiences, helping others to recognise their unconscious biases and supporting their shifting in behaviour. Through Women’s Advocacy Groups, I organised training for managers to highlight how discrimination and microaggressions impact employees and shape their long-term views of a company, using real-life examples of workplace challenges women face early on, when starting a family and later in their careers.
WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AND OVERCOME?
Like many women, one of my biggest challenges was building self-belief. I’m sure I had it early on, as it drove me to pursue a career in engineering, but it wavered later in my career. There were many processes that shattered my confidence. Learning that in my industry women are still paid 15.5% on average less than their male colleagues, was one of them. (Kudos to the UK government for introducing gender pay gap legislation in 2017!) It reinforced that just to get the same opportunity I had to work harder than my male counterparts, which I had learnt back in 1989, and left me wondering for years whether anything had really changed. At the time, I didn’t realise it was the environment, not me, that created this lack of self-belief. Leaving that behind to work independently with like-minded people restored my self-belief. I now take bigger risks, focus on the how to rather than the why it didn’t work, and overcome challenges with my newfound confidence.
WHAT DOES BEING A ‘POSITIVE FEMALE ROLE MODEL’ MEAN TO YOU?
Being a strong female role model matters to me. As a sister, daughter, mother and wife, I wear many hats. In male-dominated fields like engineering and hospitality, female role models are scarce, making it even more important to lead by example.
In my personal life, I strive to demonstrate the constant balancing act of being both a parent and a full-time professional, which is not easy, every parent knows that, no matter their gender. I hope my daughters see that both my husband and I do the balancing and it’s not just one of us. That feels like the right role model behaviour to pass onto them so that can have both – without feeling guilty about either one.
In my work life, being a role model means mentoring, supporting and sharing my experiences with those starting their careers or businesses. It’s a collaborative exchange, offering guidance while also learning and growing myself. In the corporate world, team building, training, and a desktop full of support teams helps you succeed in your career, but as a small business or a tech start up you don’t have those resources to hand, you must thrive through your network of contacts. Being someone other people are happy to share their knowledge with, for no gain to themselves is really humbling and I am so proud that I can reach out to my extensive network, of any gender, to ask for help when I do not know the answer. That is what a true role model is to me, someone who knows what they know, and is happy to share that selflessly, and who knows what they don’t know and is happy to ask someone else for help, unashamedly.
WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY?
I have many female role models, but for this article, I’ll highlight two. The first is my mother, Mrs Madhur Gupta, as she is the most tenacious, kind, mindful and resilient woman I know. She emigrated to the UK in 1966 to begin her married life and navigated language barriers, work, family, homes and changing circumstances with strength, logic and compassion and all packed into her 4’11” frame. She taught me the true meaning of adaptability and resilience. She also taught me that mindfulness is the key to inner peace, something she has practised every day, and I have now adapted into my life.
The second is the incredible Andi Oliver; chef, TV host, and presenter. I had the absolute pleasure of meeting her last year at an intimate book launch at Angela Hartnett’s Café Murano. She captivated the room as she shared stories from The Pepper Pot Diaries, opening up about her childhood, her time with Neneh Cherry, and her unexpected journey into the culinary world after an earlier career in music. Born in Britain to Antiguan immigrant parents, she grew up in Suffolk, where, like me, she often felt like the only one who was different. Like me, she took a leap, pivoting from one career to something completely new. But what stands out most about Andi is her heart, her passion for people, for uplifting the underdog and for bringing joy through food. And she does it all with that infectious, beaming smile?
AS A PUBLISHED AUTHOR AND ESTABLISHED CHEF, CAN YOU GIVE OUR READERS ANY CAREER ADVICE?
As an entrepreneur, small business owner, mother, wife or daughter, my advice would be to work out what you are passionate about, because working to live is no way to happily live. You really can overcome the everyday hurdles that get in the way of progress if you love the work you are doing.
Best of luck with your ventures! If you’re ever in need of a mentor, feel free to reach out. I’d love to connect and share our knowledge and experiences to help each other grow. And if you would like to know more about my businesses head over to www.chefrenub.com.
LOREDANA ROMANO, CO-OWNER, SPAGHETTI TREE
After discovering an old building in the picturesque village of Walton-on-the-Hill in 2004; the first ‘Spaghetti Tree’ restaurant was born, a dream materialised by female founder Maria Romano and her then teenage daughter Loredana.
Fast forward 20 years, 10 Industry Awards Wins and 2 spin-off Spaghetti Tree Restaurants in Warlingham and Shirley, the female led dream team continues!
With celebrity fans including Peter Andre, S Club’s Bradley Walsh and cricketer Phil “Tuffers” Tuffnell) the growing Spaghetti Tree collective, continues to entertain the residents of Surrey with their fabulous food, creative cocktails and fun party vibe with regular weekend singers, bands and bottomless brunches.
HOW WAS IT CARVING A SUCCESSFUL CAREER FOR YOURSELF AS A FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR?
Carving a career as a female entrepreneur has been a journey of resilience, hard work and adaptability. Starting at just 14 alongside my mother Maria, I learned every aspect of the business from the ground up.
Whilst some may assume being the founder’s daughter comes with privileges, the reality was quite the opposite – I had to work even harder to prove myself. I took on every role, from customer service to fixing technical issues, and made sure I understood every element of the business. Success in this industry isn’t given; it’s earned through dedication and the ability to stay ahead of trends.
HAVE YOU OVERCOME ANY DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE?
Yes, being a woman in a “man’s world” as well as being part of the LGBT community, I have faced discrimination, but I’ve always believed that how you handle it defines your leadership. My approach has been to stand firm in my values and create an inclusive environment where everyone is treated equally. I don’t allow negativity to dictate my path – I focus on growth, leading by example, and ensuring that my team operates with the same respect and equality that I believe in.
WHAT OTHER CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AND OVERCOME?
Running a business comes with constant challenges, from learning new skills on the go to adapting to industry changes. In the early days, social media was just beginning, and I had to quickly learn how to use it effectively as a business tool. I also had to master unexpected trades – plumbing, IT troubleshooting, and even fixing music systems – because as a business owner, no task is beneath you. Juggling multiple responsibilities, from submitting VAT to cleaning toilets, is part of the job, and it’s that willingness to do whatever is needed that has contributed to the success of the business as well as earning the staffs respect.
But the biggest challenge I have ever faced was in July 2023 when our Warlingham branch – the place where I truly made my mark – was attacked by an arsonist. The morning I received the news, my world came to a complete stop. Everything around me froze. I was distraught, overwhelmed and completely broken. I had to take time off to process it, and in all honesty, I had a breakdown. If it wasn’t for my mother, family, and close friends, I probably would have given up. But instead, we wore our scars like armour. We rebuilt the restaurant from the ground up, and I am incredibly proud to say that our Warlingham branch is back up and running. That experience tested me in ways I never imagined, but it also reinforced my belief in resilience, perseverance, and the power of having a strong support system.
WHAT DOES BEING A ‘POSITIVE FEMALE ROLE MODEL’ MEAN TO YOU?
To me, being a positive female role model means leading by example. I would never ask my team to do something I wouldn’t do myself, and if they don’t know how to do something, I take the time to teach them. It’s about showing strength, resilience and the willingness to work hard, whilst also lifting others up. I want to inspire women to know that they are capable of anything if they put in the effort and believe in themselves. Nothing is impossible!
WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY?
Without a doubt, my biggest influence is my mother. She ran restaurants whilst raising four children, working seven days a week without ever giving up. She showed me what it means to be strong, courageous, and business-savvy. Watching her balance so much with such determination taught me everything I know about work ethic, resilience, and leadership.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREERS?
Never give up. Keep going, no matter the challenges. Only you have the power to control your destiny, and no one should ever make you feel like you can’t achieve something.
Your mind is a powerful tool – use it, exercise it, and trust in your ability to learn and adapt. Success isn’t about luck; it’s about hard work, perseverance, and believing in yourself. Strength is built up in the moments you refuse to give up. Every setback you face is just a set up for a greater comeback. Turn your obstacles into opportunities.
And last but not least Nothing is impossible!
ANGELA SARA WEST, CELEBRITY JOURNALIST & CO-FOUNDER SFW
Angela Sara West is a freelance Celebrity Cover Journalist, TV Producer, Co-Founder of Surrey Fashion Week & The Triple C (Cancer Care Community) whilst also sitting on the judging panel of the prestigious Surrey Awards. After many years working at Radio 1, Radio 2, on live news and entertainment programmes and in education departments at the BBC, Angela branched out on her own and has been interviewing and rubbing shoulders with the stars for publications including Surrey Rocks, Stately Magazine and Time & Leisure. She launched Surrey Fashion Week’s celebrity charity concept events in 2021 which have since seen ‘Strictly’ stars open the show,’I’m A Celebrity…’ star/’Dancing On Ice’ judge Oti Mabuse sit on the front row, and BRIT Award-winning S Club 7 star Jo O’Meara headline and launch new music.
HOW WAS IT CARVING A SUCCESSFUL CAREER FOR YOURSELF AS A CELEBRITY JOURNALIST?
I was lucky enough to meet many of my music heroes, including Robbie Williams, Kylie Minogue and late INXS frontman Michael Hutchence, along with THE coolest man on the planet, The Fonz (Henry Winkler). But along with the highs, there were many lows… A renowned bully boss at the BBC who was infamous for his bad temper completely destroyed my, and others’, confidence, and it took me many years to build it back up. Since leaving the corporation to go freelance in 2011, I have interviewed everyone from Hollywood heavyweight Michael Douglas, supermodels Claudia Schiffer and Helena Christensen and top tenor Andrea Bocelli, to TV adventurers Bear Grylls, Helen Skelton and Sir Ralph Fiennes, President Trump’s former wife Ivana Trump, national gardening treasure Alan Titchmarsh and billionaire businessman Richard Branson.
For the cover of Surrey Rocks, I’ve chatted exclusively with Ronan Keating re. his incredible career, while Elle Macpherson revealed her wellbeing tips to me, and I’m about to sit down with Love Islander Ekin-Su/Saffron from Republica. Watch this space!
HAVE YOU OVERCOME ANY DISCRIMINATION AS A FEMALE JOURNALIST IN A TYPICALLY MALE DOMINATED FIELD?
The corporation was a bit of a ‘Boys’ Club’ during my time there in the 90s and 00s, so when it came to bosses, there were very few females in charge or even close to being at the fore, meaning we ladies were forced to fight to make our voices heard.
Thankfully, trailblazing ‘ladettes’ Sara Cox and Zoe Ball then burst onto our music scene and things finally began to take a turn. In terms of male dominance in the workplace, we still have a long way to go, but we’re definitely getting there, girls!
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR CHARITY WORK WITH SURREY FASHION WEEK & TRIPLE C?
Those who know me know I’m all about giving back. Coming from a philanthropic family, both my parents are big hearted and, despite now being in their late 70s and 80s, still assist with charity events at Carshalton Rotary Club and Inner Wheel today. Their altruistic influence instilled in me a sense of selflessness, leading to the countless celebrity charity events I have created and contributed to over the years. From volunteer work on BBC’s ‘Children In Need’ and my son’s schools’ PTAs, to co-founding Surrey Fashion Week and its celebrity charity catwalk shows with Sam at Surrey Rocks, I have helped fundraise for copious great causes.
Following my husband’s shock diagnosis of acute leukaemia (AML) last Feb, I co-created The Triple C – Cancer Care Community – an awareness and fundraising platform for cancer, mental health and other charities at www.thetriplec.co.uk. Fundraising through our exciting celebrity events and initiatives, The Triple C strives to make a positive impact on the lives of cancer patients and their families and those impacted by mental health.
Check out our charity auction accompanying our recent star-studded Surrey Fashion Week charity catwalk event where you can WIN superyacht charters in Mallorca, fine dining, mind & body bootcamps and beauty & aesthetics treatments in Surrey salons, along with haute couture pieces for just a snip of the retail price, all in aid of Cancer Research UK, the Royal Marsden in Sutton and Ukrainian charities.
WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AND OVERCOME?
A toxic relationship in my mid-twenties with a narcissist, a devasting house fire in the middle of the night in my early 30s (caused by a dodgy tradesman) where I was saved by my smoke alarms (check your batteries, everyone!) An emergency C-section resulting in losing half my body’s blood (and, almost, my life) after I haemorrhaged on the operating table, breaking a leg when Harry was just five (and not in the theatre sense!) which, combined with the accumulation of the above traumas, led to depression and anxiety. Plus, early menopause, plus a massive HRT blunder by my GP, resulting in a life-saving emergency op. I’m still a huge advocate for HRT, which has had a bad press but is actually now proven to be safe to take, with the benefits way outweighing the risks.
WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY?
Top-of-the-list females who inspire me include my beyond-amazing mum, who taught me to be the best that I can be, along with resilience, a strong work ethic, to help others where I can and to stay strong, whatever is thrown at you. Thanks to my much-loved mum’s advice, I have risen to every challenge, overcome many an obstacle in my path, be it personally or at work, and have endeavoured to not only do my best by others, but to try to take care of myself both mentally and physically, too. (Still failing dismally on the latter, as I often assist others to the detriment of myself. I’m actively working on this though!)
My fab photographer Julie just happens to be my bestie and is my absolute rock – ALWAYS there, day or night. She’s been through the wringer herself and is one of the strongest women I know, as is my good friend Helen, who sadly has secondary breast cancer but won’t let it beat her, rocking our SFW runway most years alongside her model daughters. There’s also infinitely inspiring, phenomenal female empowerer, educator and pageant queen Danielle Baron.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREERS?
As for my advice to fellow women looking to set up a business, just go for it, girls! Do not hesitate. Not for an instant. Hard work and passion are the main ingredients for success.
Surround yourself with trustworthy people (now my no.1 rule!) and be credible, research, know your market and your USP, embrace mistakes as part of the learning curve, strive to strike a happy life-work balance, above all, believe in yourself and NEVER. GIVE. UP. No matter how long it takes. Sheer hard work and determination will get you to where you want to be – and beyond!
RENATA JAGODZINSKA, OWNER, J’ADORE LA BEAUTE.
Renata is the charming and charismatic owner of Hampton Court-based beauty and aesthetics company, J’Adore La Beaute. Their clinic is equipped with the latest technology, luxurious amenities and with a commitment to excellence, they provide personalised consultations and a highly skilled team. Additionally, they provide guidance and education on self-care practices that compliment and support their cutting-edge treatments. Experience the epitome of luxury, comfort and exceptional service at J’Adore and read how Renata made it all happen.
HOW WAS IT CARVING A SUCCESSFUL CAREER FOR YOURSELF AS A FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR?
My journey in business began over 20 years ago when I was a single mother with a young child. As a determined and resilient individual, I embraced challenges and setbacks, setting clear goals for myself and ultimately achieving them. The early stages were particularly challenging, especially given my limited proficiency in English, but I persevered, never allowing obstacles – no matter how tough – to deter me, even on days when I faced moments of doubt and hardship.
HAVE YOU OVERCOME ANY DISCRIMINATION AS A WOMAN IN BUSINESS?
Yes, I have faced discrimination, though I choose to view these experiences as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. Early on, I encountered scepticism about my capabilities. I was often underestimated or had to work harder to prove my worth. This included not being taken as seriously in some professional settings. However, these challenges only fuelled my determination to succeed. I learned to not let bias or negativity define my worth or capabilities. Over time, I became more confident in advocating for myself, my ideas and my business. While discrimination is still something many people face, I firmly believe that resilience, perseverance and unity can help us break down barriers and pave the way for future generations of female entrepreneurs.
HOW DO YOU JUGGLE BEING A MUM, WIFE AND ENTREPRENEUR?
Juggling the roles of a mum, wife and entrepreneur is certainly a balancing act, but it’s one I approach with intention and flexibility. First and foremost, it’s about setting clear priorities and being present in each role when I’m engaged in it. I’ve learned that time management is key and scheduling my work tasks around family time and making sure I set boundaries between my professional and personal life helps keep everything on track.
Being a mum and wife comes with its own set of responsibilities, but having a strong support system, including my family and team, has made all the difference. My husband and I have always worked together to ensure we share the load at home, which allows me the space to focus on my business. And while it can get overwhelming at times, I try to remember that self-care is crucial, too.
Ultimately, it’s not about perfection but about embracing the chaos, finding balance in the process, and knowing that with the right mindset and support, I can thrive in all the roles I hold.
WHAT OTHER CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AND OVERCOME?
Throughout my journey, I’ve faced numerous challenges, both personal and professional, that have tested my resilience and growth. One of the biggest hurdles has been overcoming financial uncertainty in the early stages of my business. As a single mother with limited resources, I often had to make tough decisions about where to invest and how to manage cash flow. There were times when I doubted whether I would be able to keep things afloat, but I remained determined, learning to be resourceful and creative in finding solutions.
Another challenge I faced was navigating the steep learning curve of entrepreneurship. There was so much to learn from business strategy and marketing to leadership and finance and at times it felt overwhelming. But I took each challenge as an opportunity to grow, continuously educating myself, seeking mentorship and surrounding myself with people who could offer guidance and support.
More recently, as my business has grown, I’ve had to adjust to managing a larger team, which comes with its own set of leadership challenges. Balancing the needs of the business while fostering a positive, productive culture can be tricky, but it’s something I’ve learned to manage by prioritising communication, empathy, and trust.
Each challenge has shaped me into the entrepreneur I am today, and I’ve come to view them as essential stepping stones to my success. Every obstacle, no matter how difficult, has been a valuable lesson that has ultimately made me stronger and more capable.
WHAT DOES BEING A ‘POSITIVE FEMALE ROLE MODEL’ MEAN TO YOU?
Being a “positive female role model” means embodying the values of strength, resilience and authenticity while empowering others to believe in their own potential. It’s about showing that success isn’t just about personal achievement, but about lifting others along the way. To me, it means demonstrating that women can excel in any field, no matter the challenges or societal expectations, and that we can do so while staying true to ourselves and our values.
A positive role model doesn’t have to be perfect – it’s about being real, owning your journey, and showing that setbacks are just part of the process. It means teaching the next generation of women that they have the power to break boundaries, pursue their passions, and create their own paths, regardless of the obstacles they might face. Ultimately, being a positive female role model is about inspiring confidence, encouraging collaboration and helping others see that their dreams are achievable.
WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY?
The women who have had the biggest influence on my life are those who have shown me the power of resilience, determination, and compassion.
I met a dear friend some years ago who taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and always striving for something greater, no matter the circumstances. She was a constant reminder that strength doesn’t always have to be loud- sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and unwavering. Her ability to face challenges with grace and a positive attitude shaped much of who I am today.
The women I’ve met throughout my journey – mentors, peers, fellow entrepreneurs and friends – have all shaped my outlook on life and business. Their stories, support and encouragement have been invaluable, showing me that success is never a solo journey but a shared experience of lifting each other up. They remind me that when women support each other, incredible things happen.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREERS?
My advice to women starting out in their careers would be to trust in your abilities and embrace your unique perspective. The journey may not always be easy, and you will face challenges, but remember that resilience and perseverance are key. Don’t be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zone – growth happens when we push beyond what we know.
Also, find mentors and build a strong support network. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, challenge you and can offer guidance along the way. There’s strength in learning from others’ experiences, but also in being open to helping others as you grow.
It’s also important to set boundaries and prioritise your well-being. Success is not just about working harder but also about working smarter and maintaining balance in your life. Lastly, never let anyone’s doubts or limitations define your potential. Stay focused on your goals, be patient with yourself, and always keep learning. Your journey is yours to create – don’t be afraid to carve your own path.
NADIA ESSEX, TV PRESENTER, TURNED ENTREPRENEUR
After 20 years of experience in Marketing, Presenting and Coaching – namely on the hit E4 TV Show ‘Celebs Go Dating’ – Nadia is the owner of the fastest growing Influencer Marketing App called Kidfluence. Nadia documents her navigation around being a female entrepreneur to balancing single parent life on her SM and the challenges she faces as a female founder.
HOW DID YOU MANAGE TO FORGE A SUCCESSFUL CAREER FOR YOURSELF IN THE COMPETITIVE WORLD OF INFLUENCER MARKETING?
The greatest things about being a content creator is you are your best USP (unique selling point). No one is you and that is your strength. These days Brands care about the ‘who’ rather than a follower count. I made plenty of money off influencing with little followers before I was on TV and after I spent 2 years of Covid rearing a child alone I wanted to create a business to give me financial security and help others grow their business too. Influencing is one of the few female lead industries. It is literally bringing women out of poverty, giving them a chance to provide for their families or be financially independent to move out of a domestic violence situation. I’m so proud to be part of it and leading the way to create a platform where collaboration is key, and support and community mean everything. On Kidfluence there is no competition. If one person wins we all win. For me, I learned very early on in my career how to sell so if you can’t sell then definitely worth some courses or YouTube tutorials on how to sell. If you can sell you will never be out of a job, someone will always hire you to sell their product. Importantly you can sell yourself and create your dream life because you can get others to buy into your dream and invest in your business or sell enough to be financially successful.
HAVE YOU OVERCOME ANY DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE?
Absolutely. I took Eden (my former ‘Celebs Go Dating’ co-host) and Lime Pictures to court for harassment, gender discrimination and victimisation. It was super scary and the rules back then meant I brought my claim too late but the judge agreed I had a case and it taught me so much about being brave, being honest and having integrity. Most importantly it made me realise I let things get way out of hand and should have stopped it long before court was needed. I felt I wasn’t able to speak up and be respected or heard and that was a mistake. I should have worked really hard to articulate my feelings better a lot sooner and I should never have been so invested in other people. I should have stayed in my lane and not let anyone else change my emotional state. Nowadays if someone was treating me poorly I would express my feelings immediately and if nothing changed I would remove myself from that situation. Being on TV was wonderful at the time but truthfully it isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. The pay is non-existent, the narcissistic people will walk all over you and not think twice, the DM’s are horrific. People who have never met you literally tell you they hate you. It’s very difficult to navigate especially alone. But now I know better. Block. Delete. Move on. I only take on projects I want to do with people I want to work with and the confidence I have found from coming back from rock bottom is unshakeable.
WHAT OTHER CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AND OVERCOME?
I didn’t find out I was pregnant till about 10 weeks and at the time I was living in my friends walk in wardrobe. Technically I was homeless and jobless, I was in the worst possible situation and had to think very long and hard about my pregnancy and my future. I decided that this was the sign to get off my bottom and get my life together.
A few months later I had a small but regular income, a new 1 bedroom flat and a new found excitement for life. It took time, lots of tears, body scans, YouTube videos, learning, therapy, books and self care to drag myself from suicidal to successful but I did it and I’m so very proud of myself.
WHAT DOES BEING A ‘POSITIVE FEMALE ROLE MODEL’ MEAN TO YOU?
Gosh that’s a hard one. I don’t think we should have role models because as humans we are fundamentally flawed and for some reason we just don’t allow ‘role models’ any mistakes. We don’t allow people to change opinions or grow. People expect me to be Nadia from ‘Celebs Go Dating’ because that person no longer exists. I would never have the guts to say the problematic things I said back then. I’m happier protecting my peace rather than arguing with strangers online. So I’m definitely not a role model but I do hope that I can inspire others. Many people I know committed suicide and it’s a stark reminder I could have taken that step too. I didn’t and I’m so unbelievably grateful as I would have never experienced being a mum and never would have met my son. He is the greatest gift I have ever received and I would go through 100 years of hell for the chance to be his mumma again.
WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY?
I can’t think of just one. I wish I could. No one jumps to mind as a mentor or stand out influence to be 100% honest. I have had a very difficult life and find making friends or asking for help difficult. I found out last year I have ADHD and I worked with a ADHD coach named Natasha who helped me navigate the difficult feelings around feeling angry and resentful about how hard life has been and how different it would have been if someone or anyone had picked up my ADHD and given me support sooner. But my main inspirations are women who are comfortable in their own skin, successful and happy. Emma Grede, Jade Holland Cooper, Victoria Beckham, Olivia Attwood, Lydia Millen – Gordon, Mel Robbins, Sage Robbins, Jamie Sea. I love these ladies and their content. They often inspire me to make better choices, live authentically and keep moving forward.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREERS?
You can achieve your dreams and goals but it’s usually going to take longer than you predict. But that’s ok. Any dream is possible if it’s part of a focused 10-year-plan. There isn’t anything you can’t achieve in a decade. Also, read. Reading books (or listening whatever resonates) will open your mind, evolve your brain and give you healthy endorphins no Netflix show ever could. Read business books, self-help books and fiction. Curate a beautiful feed on your social media and limit your app times. This has been a game changer for me. I often get into scrolling and before I know it an hour has passed. So now I set a limit on my social media and I’m trying to detox from my phone and screen time. It’s been wonderful and really helps me be productive. And lastly NEVER give up. All the entrepreneurial people I know who have made it big have one thing in common, they just didn’t stop. Progress was slow at times and nearly stalled but they never quit and now they are reaping the rewards with generational wealth. Also focus on 1 thing you are good at. Don’t have lots of fingers in lots of pies. You are spreading your time and energy will always lose against your competitor who spends 100% of their time on just one thing. And if you are ever stuck, alone and think you are out of options pick up your phone and start posting (I recommend TikTok as the chance of virality is bigger than Insta). People say Social media can be heaven or hell, forget that, make yours a pay check.
HELEN MCGUIRE, CEO, DIVERSLEY
Helen is a tech entrepreneur, author, exited founder, speaker and mother of three. As one of the 0.5% of female founders to have successfully had their start-up acquired, Helen made waves in 2023 when her AI-driven diversity hiring platform, Diversely.io was acquired by The Access Group, one of the world’s leading software companies. With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience, Helen is now dedicated to supporting founder growth. Through The Founder’s Sanctuary, her platform offers world-class expertise and resources for founders achieve purpose, growth and impact. Helen speaks globally on topics of purpose, business growth, and diversity in entrepreneurship and has just published her first book ‘The Female Founder Formula: A Roadmap to Nailing Entrepreneurship.’
HOW WAS IT CARVING A CAREER FOR YOURSELF IN THE COMPETITIVE DIVERSITY SPACE?
Breaking into the diversity space wasn’t just about creating a business, it was about challenging the status quo and building solutions that didn’t yet exist. When I launched my first company, Hopscotch, in 2015, there weren’t many platforms focused on women’s career progression and equity in the workplace. Later, with Diversely, we took things a step further by using AI-driven technology to remove bias from hiring processes – something that was both innovative and necessary in the industry.
HAVE YOU OVERCOME ANY DISCRIMINATION OR SEXUAL MISCONDUCT IN YOUR FIELD OF WORK?
While I haven’t experienced sexual discrimination or misconduct personally, gender bias is something many women in leadership, entrepreneurship, and tech continue to navigate. What I have encountered is the undervaluing of female founders – being questioned more about risk than potential, being offered lower investment opportunities compared to male counterparts, and often needing to work twice as hard for half the recognition. One of the most frustrating things I noticed was that female-led businesses often receive less funding, despite the fact that they statistically deliver higher returns. This systemic bias is something I’ve actively worked to challenge—not just for myself, but for the countless female founders I now coach and support through www.thefounderssanctuary.com.
WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AND OVERCOME?
- Raising investment as a female founder: As one of the 0.5% of female founders to successfully exit a startup, I’ve seen firsthand how tough the funding landscape is for women. Pitching to male-dominated investor rooms meant constantly having to prove credibility beyond the business model.
- Building a business while raising a family: Balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood is no small feat. I had to create my own version of success, one that allowed me to be ambitious in my career while being present for my children.
- Pioneering new concepts in an industry resistant to change: Whether it was launching the first women-focused careers platform in the Middle East or developing AI-powered hiring solutions for diversity, pushing innovation in conservative or risk-averse industries has required resilience, persistence, and a clear vision.
- Scaling and exiting a company: Selling Diversely was an incredible milestone, but the acquisition process was a steep learning curve. Making sure our mission remained intact while transitioning to a larger company required strong negotiation, leadership, and trust in my team.
Who are the women who have had the biggest influences on your life and why?
I have so much admiration for women who have made it to the top in male-dominated spaces while raising families – because they prove that motherhood and ambition are not mutually exclusive. Some of the women who inspire me include: Whitney Wolfe Herd (Founder of Bumble): She built a billion-dollar business while championing women in tech and leadership. Sara Blakely (Founder of Spanx): A self-made entrepreneur who bootstrapped her way to success while maintaining authenticity. Indra Nooyi (Former CEO of PepsiCo): Led a global corporation while speaking candidly about the challenges of being a working mother.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREERS?
- Build Your Own Definition of Success
Not everyone’s path looks the same – define what success means to YOU, not what society tells you it should be. - Speak Up, Even When It’s Uncomfortable
Your voice, your ideas, and your perspective are just as valuable as anyone else’s in the room. Don’t wait for permission to contribute. - Find Your Support System
Whether it’s a mentor, coach, or peer network, having a strong support system makes all the difference. No one succeeds alone. - Take Risks & Back Yourself
There’s never a perfect time to start something new, ask for a raise, or launch that business. If you wait until you feel 100% ready, you’ll never do it. - Remember That Failure is Part of the Process
I’ve made plenty of mistakes, but every single one taught me something valuable. The key is to fail fast, learn, and move forward. - Build Resilience, But Don’t Burn Out
Resilience isn’t about pushing through exhaustion—it’s about knowing when to pause, reset, and ask for help.
JESSICA MONACO, FORMER MISS SURREY & PHILANTHROPIST
Jessica Monaco is a former Miss Kingston and Miss Surrey Beauty Queen. She went on to grace the cover of multiple international magazines covers such as FHM magazine. Jessica has travelled the world as a model and has developed a strong passion and bond with street dogs and has one herself. A keen philanthropist her aim is to help aid her team the K9 Angels and the Camp Beagle in street dog rescue on the frontline worldwide. She devotes as much time as she can to various other categories of charities, including Surrey Fashion Week and Ukraine Rocks, helping where she can. She is a strong woman and success story from her home town of Surrey.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR CHARITY WORK?
My first fundraising challenge was in 2012. Whilst living and working in the French Alpes, I took on a daring adventure by my friend to take a jump off from Mont Blanc. I told her if we were risking our lives, we should do it for charity so someone could merit from our endeavours! I chose to crowdsource for a major UK based animal charity. I then came across K9 Angels randomly, another UK NFP organisation on Facebook, was shocked to see how many fury friends were suffering in Eastern Europe & South East Asia. I immediately decided to help and get actively involved in any small way I could to begin with and continuing. Now I’m an official fundraiser with the K9 Angels team, helping dogs worldwide. Every Dog Matters.
WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AND OVERCOME?
The toughest challenge was choosing my rescue dog out of all the strays I met whilst on a rescue mission to Romania with K9 Angels. The conditions are exceptionally harsh in war torn countries, nothing compared to what the little dogs suffer on the streets. We are now all involved with small yet courageous team of protesters who are @thecampbeagle campaigning to shut down MBR Acres here in our country. Daily torture & murder of innocent beagle pups being bred for toxicology testing should be banned immediately by our government. Another tough challenge to help! I urge you all to take a look @thecampbeagle. Please sign the petition & support them by sharing what is going on here. Camp beagle urge you to take a look into your own dogs eyes and stand united for their friends.
WHAT DOES BEING A ‘POSITIVE FEMALE ROLE MODEL’ MEAN TO YOU?
A woman who is bold enough to go forward and speak her mind on matters concerning the voiceless even though it may not be pop culture or a popular subjects. Also strong women who have overcome adversity to achieve success, helping and guiding others along the way to become better people is what I look up to.
WHO ARE THE WOMEN WHO HAVE HAD THE BIGGEST INFLUENCES ON YOUR LIFE AND WHY?
Definitely my friend Victoria, founder of K9 Angels. She’s original and genuinely beautiful from the inside out. A strong and non-judgmental woman, also very kind and very wise. Victoria has rescued over 1000 dogs over the past ten years with her “Not For Profit” charity with the team members. We are great friends to this day and we both continue to try and make a change in this world.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN STARTING OUT IN THEIR CAREERS?
My advice is stay grounded and humble. Be true to yourself and be unique. It takes a determined and resilient woman to achieve positivity and triumph in the world. Never give up and enjoy the journey with those that have been loyal and stuck by you through thick and thin! Food for thought to us all!
