From Hairdresser to Community Transformer  

Tina Ussher moved to Barking and Dagenham 16 years ago after living in Goodmayes. Driven by her passion for hairdressing, she enrolled at Barking and Dagenham College to hone her skills. While studying, she noticed a significant barrier faced by many aspiring hairdressers from African backgrounds—the language gap. Many individuals, despite their natural talent, struggled with the technical aspects of hairdressing due to language challenges. Luckily, Tina’s educational background made it easier for her to complete the course, but she couldn’t ignore the talent around her going to waste.

Determined to make a difference, she opened her home salon and began offering her knowledge to those who needed it most. She saw many single mothers and young people in her community, unemployed and limited by language barriers. To help them build a future, she invited them to volunteer at her salon, teaching them braiding, natural styles, and techniques that didn’t rely on chemicals. Over the years, many of her trainees went on to start their own small businesses, charging clients for their services and gaining financial independence. Through her dedication, Tine transformed from hairdresser to hair and skincare formulating coach, teaching students how to formulate safe hair and skincare  products.

What Tina Hopes to Learn

Tina is eager to grow through the Amplify programme. She’s particularly interested in the business courses that focus on creating a strong business plan, especially as she envisions recruiting and managing a team in the future. She understands the importance of mastering human relationships, setting boundaries, and learning how to manage people effectively. Another major area of focus for her is social media. While she has been posting her work online, she admits that her approach hasn’t had the impact she desires. She’s spent money on promotions without seeing results, and she’s looking forward to gaining the skills to handle social media marketing herself. She believes that with Amplify’s training, she will be well-equipped to promote her business effectively and expand it even further.

Overcoming Challenges

For Tina, social media has been her biggest challenge. In today’s world, she knows that visibility online is crucial, and without it, even the most talented individuals can go unnoticed. Despite her efforts to post online, she has struggled to maximise her reach and feels that she has wasted money on promotions that didn’t deliver. She’s also keen to improve her networking skills, recognising that connections with others in the Amplify programme can open doors for both personal and business growth. Networking allows people to share ideas and knowledge, and she sees it as essential for stepping out of her comfort zone and spreading her business further. She’s also excited to learn more about the opportunities available in the borough, as many people aren’t aware of the resources at their disposal. Although she hasn’t started the programme yet, Tina has already been spreading the word, encouraging others to join and seize the learning opportunities Amplify offers.

Advice for Amplify Applicants

Tina’s advice to anyone considering joining the Amplify programme is simple: just go for it! From the moment she first visited, she was warmly welcomed and supported, especially by Shanice, one of our BEC members, who took the time to listen to her ideas and gave her the confidence to move forward. She has been sharing that same confidence with others, encouraging them to take the leap and give Amplify a try. She believes that the energy and optimism the programme provides are enough to ignite something powerful within you.

As a hairdresser, she interacts with many people daily, and it’s made her realise just how many in her community are unaware of the opportunities around them. She feels fortunate to have discovered Amplify and urges others not to sit back but to get involved. Her message is clear: there’s nothing to lose by trying, and it’s better to take action than to wonder what could have been. Tina believes in her ability to transform something from nothing, and she’s spreading that same energy to everyone around her. Amplify is here to help boost confidence and show you that you can do it, just as it’s already doing for her.

Goals for the Next Five Years

In the next five years, Tina aims to have a lasting impact on her community by training over 100 people in hairdressing, equipping them with valuable skills that can lead to financial independence. She also dreams of seeing her plant-based hair products, Hair TLC Organic, on supermarket shelves. These products, designed for managing thick, coarse hair types without harmful chemicals, stem from her experiences as a hairdresser. Many of her clients, particularly parents, struggle with managing their children’s hair, often resorting to relaxers at a young age, which can cause damage. Her mission is to provide a natural alternative—one that makes hair softer and easier to manage, without the risk of harmful side effects. Through this, she hopes to make a positive impact not only in her community but in the broader market as well.

Julie Cleijne: How a Holistic Approach Can Amplify Your Success

Growing up, Julie Cleijne  was deeply influenced by the concept of food as a crucial element for health and by the importance of preserving natural resources. In her native Australia, she was shaped by the challenges that drought presented her family with and  was fortunate to learn the value of sustainable practices early in life. With her family working in specialist health and farming, her family background influenced and  enriched her perspective. With her mother being a nurse, one uncle who was a farmer, and another uncle a practising naturopath. Julie's multicultural heritage including a Dutch Father, and Uncles and Aunties from Italian, Indian, and Indonesian heritage, became further influences that exposed her to a diverse range of foods and cultural practices.

A passionate athlete as a kid, Julie's life experiences heightened her curiosity around how different foods affect her health, and energy levels. Growing up in a household where all meals were made from scratch, and without processed foods, instilled a strong sense of awareness about the ingredients in her meals. Also growing up with food allergies, and therefore needing to check the ingredients of foods offered out of home when she became more social and independent as a teenager and in her early 20’s made her hyper aware of the artificial ingredients in processed foods. Currently Julie is paving the way to success with her food consulting business and is launching a food product line, as well as being one of our very own Amplify mentors!

From corporate to food

Julie’s deep passion for food, wellness and being resourceful to protect the planet even stayed strong as she carved out a non-food related career in the corporate world. Although she initially pursued a career in management consulting and project management, her love for food never wavered. While living in Edinburgh, Julie lived with a partner who owned a catering company and her role was managing their corporate clients and organising catered for events at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Her involvement in menu planning and event coordination allowed her to stay connected to her culinary passion, despite her core income coming from her management consultancy work in the corporate sector.

After years in the corporate realm, she decided to pivot back towards her first love—food and nutrition. In her early 40s, she chose to retrain and study nutrition professionally, balancing her studies with existing work commitments. This transition was fueled by both a desire for personal growth and a response to some personal health challenges. Her extensive background in management and her lifelong passion for food positioned her perfectly to approach nutrition with a blend of practical business experience and heartfelt dedication.

Becoming a naturopathic chef

Julie’s journey led her to become a naturopathic chef, a role that perfectly blends her expertise in nutrition with practical culinary skills, and balancing the impact on our planet’s resources. As a naturopathic chef, she focuses on creating dishes that balance both human health and environmental sustainability. She adheres to the principles of using natural, seasonal, and local responsibly farmed ingredients, ensuring that her culinary practices align with the highest standards of food sustainability. This approach reflects her commitment to promoting a harmonious relationship between diet and ecological responsibility.

In response to a growing demand for healthier and more sustainable food options, she founded Sustainable Kitchen Consultants just before the COVID-19 pandemic. Her aim was to address broader challenges within the hospitality sector by helping businesses adapt to a more health-conscious and eco-friendly consumer base. Initially started with a business partner, the company evolved into a solo venture where she took charge of recipe development, sustainable sourcing strategies, and chef training. Her focus was not only on plant-forward and allergen-free recipes but also on giving mainstream chefs essential training on nutrition and sustainable cooking practices.

Adding yet another dimension to her career, she recently launched her own food range, drawing on  her expertise in product development and sustainable practices. Her firsthand experience in launching a food product has deepened her understanding of market dynamics and sustainability. From packaging to ingredient sourcing, she ensures that every aspect of her brand reflects her commitment to environmental and consumer health. Her  latest venture complements her extensive background in business strategy, project management, and nutrition, reinforcing her role as a thought-leader in the area  of sustainable culinary practices.

A healthy option

Her foray into food product development was initially unexpected, given the demanding nature of the work. However, noticing a shift in the food service sector towards convenience and ultra-processed plant-based options, she felt compelled to offer a healthier, more sustainable alternative. Julie is particularly concerned with these processed foods, noting their often dubious health benefits and lack of transparency regarding ingredient sourcing. Despite some innovative advancements, she believes too many of these products fall short of true sustainability and healthfulness.

In contrast, Julie’s focus is on creating 100% natural food products with a commitment to using UK-sourced and responsibly farmed ingredients. Her first foray into product development has been her plant-based mints made from pure, natural ingredients, reflecting her dedication to supporting local farmers and avoiding unnecessary additives. She has actively promoted these products through events and catering, where the positive reception convinced her to launch them commercially.

Currently Julie is working on expanding her product line, aiming to supply directly to the food service industry as opposed to retailers. Her products, which come in reusable packaging, have already garnered interest and back orders from clients, including a potential large order with an airline caterer. The recognition of her products, such as winning a silver medal at the Free From Food Awards in the food service category, underscores their appeal and effectiveness. Her focus remains on delivering natural, allergen-free options that align with her values of sustainability and quality.

A new look at sustainability

As a mentor in the Amplify programme, Julie emphasises a holistic approach to sustainability that extends beyond common perceptions. In her discussions with Karen and Shanice, she pointed out that often people equate sustainability with a heavy focus on aspects such as reducing plastic packaging, overlooking its broader implications. She advocates for the three pillars of sustainability: people, planet, and profit. She stresses that financial profitability should not come at the expense of environmental and social responsibility. Instead, she believes that sustainable practices can actually lead to cost savings, and potentially open up opportunities for grants and investment, and attract the right customers, which can lead to more financial sustainability. Through integrating sustainability into their operations, businesses can achieve long-term success while aligning with ethical principles.

In her role with the programme, she finds it rewarding to guide emerging food businesses through their sustainability journeys. Many of these businesses are in their early stages or expanding from home-based operations, and Julie helps them to navigate this critical phase. She assists them in developing a sustainability roadmap with achievable short and long-term goals, encouraging them to take incremental steps and involve their customers in the process. Julie's mentorship ensures that these businesses understand that perfection is not the immediate goal, but rather a gradual progression toward more sustainable practices that benefit both their operations and the broader community.

A rewarding experience

Julie finds the Amplify programme deeply rewarding, mainly due to the genuine enthusiasm and growth she witnesses from grassroots businesses. She relishes the moments when these new ventures express their excitement and appreciation for the knowledge they gain, reflecting significant learning and development. Her involvement in creating the sustainability and world cuisine curriculum for the New London Food School, which will be out at Barking and Dagenham College led her to connect with Karen and her role in the programme, further enriches her experience. Julie's ability to combine consulting and food production expertise allows her to offer valuable training and mentorship, making the programmes impact on these burgeoning businesses even more  gratifying.

Returning from Summer break – well not just yet ….

It felt like the world and his wife had left this summer, the buildings were noticeably quiet, and we had no external meetings or events. I normally use this period to catch up on all the things I have been promising to do and use some of the time for planning and thinking. I know what your ‘thinking time for thinking ‘but it is incredibly important to carve out time to think, think bigger picture, strategy and goal setting which is fundamentally different from the thinking we do daily to react to matters or complete tasks. We also decorated, our spaces here at the BEC, we have Instagram worthy workspaces now, which have lifted mood and morale considerably and not just mine.

For me this is blank page of my fabulous notebook, and the ideas just flow on a whole wealth of matters relating to the BEC and the wider work we do.

However, just for the record I am about to go on my summer break now we do not have to fit round education and school commitments the last ten years have meant late September holidays. Still fabulous weather but a little cooler to go exploring and not moan about how hot it is 😊

I will return at the start of October with renewed energy and a fresh perspective on the sticky issues which have been pressing on my mind for a while.

Here is what I am planning to do:

Set new goals – I intend to use the clarity and motivation of my holiday to set myself new and achievable goals, in all areas, personal development, our team performance, and project specific targets.

Prioritising tasks – on returning the to do list always seems to have grown, but if I prioritise then I can ease myself into productivity without feeling overwhelmed and then facing that ‘it feels like I have never been away feeling.’

Reconnecting with the team and wider colleagues – summer felt a lonely place at time, colleagues I see a lot both in the BEC and wider went off on leave so it will be nice to get back to collaboration. This is an area of the role I really enjoy learning from brilliant colleagues means every day is a school day.

Setting my new routine – sadly, winter approaches I admit my enthusiasm for Pilates, yoga, the gym, and healthy eating disappears, and I can always find an excuse. It is a case of ‘namaste’ turns into ‘not today!’ but not this year! I intend to create a workable winter routine which fits nicely into the life and does not feel like a chore. Vitally important this year having lost 32kg over the summer I intend this to be a lifestyle choice from now on. Hand in hand with this goes learning to balance work and life in general, I am famous for talking the talk about balance but not so good at keeping this for myself, but I have learnt that it is vital for productivity.

I hope you find this helpful, and I will see you in a couple of weeks on my return when Amplify will kick off for cohort two and other exciting programmes begin. Happy autumn everybody!

Why August is always a month of reflection.

I am left home alone for most of August my esteemed colleague and work wife goes on holiday for a few weeks, and so I am left to my own devices. It is a chance to catch up and go through the pile of things to do I have said I will get to one day. External meetings dry up even online, so I really am left to ponder and peruse! This time we have been on a bit of a mission to spruce up our own working areas after 8 years the clutter and toot (I love the word toot!) and give our spaces a glow up. I now have such a cool space to work from an Instagram dream and fair play to our caretaker Cliff who has worked so hard to get the decorating done.

Whilst I was pondering and perusing whilst looking back at the last 8 years there is much to be proud of, so many successful businesses with our help and support, some great projects, of course fabulous workspaces without question and a team of mentors and trainers who are very much part of the BEC family and crucial to our story.

We are mid-way through preparing for cohort two, but we were thinking that we could increase the number of businesses we could help with this programme and so we have extended the window for applications. We want to give as many businesses as possible the opportunity to benefit from this brilliant programme.

If you know any businesses who might be interested, then send them our way and if you are thinking about applying for yourself here are my views on why the programme works. Luckily, our funders the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham and the GLA agree with me.

Amplify is our flag ship business support programme, a mix of bootcamps and individual business support and they both play crucial roles in the success of a business for several reasons:

The boot camp elements offer focused, intensive training that helps participants quickly gain the skills needed to excel in their field. This is particularly beneficial for new businesses or those who have not seen the growth or development they anticipated. It’s vital to understand and unpick the challenges businesses face. Unlike traditional training, bootcamps emphasize hands-on learning, allowing participants to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and these facilitate peer support networks amongst the participants. Bootcamps bring together like-minded individuals, creating opportunities for networking and forming valuable professional relationships.

 This was an unknown outcome at the start of the programme, but we will take it as a win.

It’s important to remember that the Amplify programme is quite short term about 10 weeks this time as we purposely exclude half term weeks and of course dare I mention it we want to finish before Christmas.

The second part of the programme is the individual business support, undeniably access to experienced mentors can provide invaluable advice and insights, helping entrepreneurs navigate challenges and make informed decisions.

Our mentors can assist with developing business plans, marketing strategies, and financial planning, ensuring a solid foundation for growth. Our ethos of only working with industry experts in their field with current knowledge means that their support is top notch.

Hopefully I have sold it to you now so if you or anyone you know based in Barking and Dagenham is interested then please check our website ( link) or contact Shanice.Bako@barkingenterprisecentre.co.uk for more information.

Facing and embracing the fear

Whether you are starting up a business, or growing a business or even changing the direction of your business there is no denying that being a business owner can be a daunting endeavour. Over my eight plus years at the BEC and recently on the Amplify programme I have seen so many examples of business owners fearful of taking those next steps. Addressing the fears associated with the issues you face can be a positive, worthwhile, and rewarding experience.

The reality is that any major change from starting, growing, and changing direction takes courage in buckets, initiative, drive, determination, and guess what no one is going to do it for you! I hear repeatedly ‘I will be able to do that when I can afford to employ more people.’

However, to progress you the owner will need to become an ‘allrounder,’ not an expert but an understanding across all areas of the business is essential.

Here are my tips on how to do this…

Educate yourself – an absolutely true saying is ‘knowledge is power’ and you will need an understanding of your industry its essential which means keeping up with market trends, customer needs and the competitive landscape. Developing your business skills is essential learning the basics of business planning, marketing, finance, and social media are essential.

You may not have come from these industry backgrounds and certainly if you are over forty then the entire world of social media and digital marketing feels like a minefield. However, you have to embrace this new world, I consider myself knowing enough to get along now, not the techy wizardry but how important blogs, newsletters and updates are to the BEC business and I have to set time aside to write blogs etc, it is in fact a key part of my role although undeniably not in the 8 year old job description!

Having a business plan – at the risk of constantly repeating myself here but having a solid business plan with a clear vision on how to define your goals and the value proposition you offer. All businesses need a road map a step-by-step plan of how to make the vision a reality which makes it less daunting and holds you to account for how to make things happen. Move away from waiting for someone else to do it and be self service on making this happen. The BEC has templates but so does Google, easy to follow and crucial to get those thoughts out of your head and into a plan.

Finding your supporters- these could be trusted friends or partners, or mentors from an organisation like the BEC. These are people who know your industry and their support and guidance can provide invaluable insights and encouragement. I met a fabulous person called Dr Zella King several years ago who authored a book with a colleague Amanda Scott called’ My Personal Boardroom.’ I can assure you it is a well-thumbed book, used a lot and it changed my professional working life!

Our book

My last tip is focus on the positives, however small the progress may be, remember to celebrate the small wins and surround yourself with positive influences who can help you maintain that hopeful outlook. Having a mentor can also help with this, although all good mentors will provide the hard to hear answers too!

Wherever you are on your business journey you can mitigate fear by acting, remember every successful business owner faced the same fears and overcoming them is part of the journey.

Remember the BEC is there to provide support please check our website for how we can help with this https://www.beccic.co.uk

Sharon Mercieca and the In-person support of the Amplify Programme

Sharon Mercieca Dasgupta, a dedicated and passionate Mind Body coach, began her journey in 2004. Hailing originally from Australia, she moved to Malta in 1993 before finally settling in the UK in 1998. Sharon's career started in HR and Payroll, both in Malta and the UK, but she found it unfulfilling. Seeking a more meaningful path, she transitioned to part-time HR and Payroll roles while studying for a Level Three Personal Training award in the UK. This allowed her to gradually build a client base, ultimately leading her to leave HR and Payroll completely. Sharon vividly recalls the profound joy she felt during her first client training session, witnessing the positive transformation in her clients. 

This experience ignited her passion for coaching, driving her commitment to helping others achieve their fitness and wellness goals. As of this moment Sharon is excited to announce a rebrand of her business, which for many years operated under the strapline "Strong Mind Fit Body." In the coming week, she will introduce the new tagline, "Wellness with Compassion," reflecting her personal philosophy and teaching approach. Currently, Sharon also provides online coaching for those that cannot work with her face to face. She has also created an 11 day online programme, which can be found on her website, around our thoughts and language as they dictate our actions. For many the tools of 'exercise' and 'nutrition' work short term, but without addressing our mindset and our language we will only adhere to these short term, her lesson tackles these limiting beliefs to create new healthy behaviours/habits. Being dedicated to creating a more holistic approach to health for a wider audience, Sharon applied for the Barking Enterprise Centres Amplify Programme, to enhance her business knowledge and skill set.  

Overcoming challenges with Amplify

The Amplify programme has been a pivotal experience for Sharon, helping her overcome several challenges and reigniting her passion for her work. Previously, Sharon felt hidden away, especially after having children, and realised the importance of networking and participating in community events. Getting out into the community reminded her of why she loved her work- as she did before her children were born when she actively led boot camps. This realisation prompted her to try new things without fear of failure, embracing the philosophy of learning and growing from every experience. Sharon also took on a personal trainer, focusing on mentoring and nurturing her new team member, showcasing the importance of building a strong foundation before expanding further.

The Amplify programme introduced her to new perspectives and tools that she had not considered before. Each mentor brought unique insights that enriched her approach to her business. One mentor highlighted the potential of AI, showing her how it could save time while maintaining authenticity in her communication. Another mentor emphasised the importance of developing an online community, something she had not explored before. This mentor's guidance opened new avenues for her, and she is eager to learn more in their upcoming session. Additionally, Sharon was encouraged to think about her future, potentially transitioning to a consulting role given her 20 years of experience. The mentors also provided valuable contacts, helping her navigate and connect with key individuals in her industry.

One of the most significant benefits of the Amplify program for Sharon has been the confidence it has given her. Self-employment can be isolating, but having mentors who understand her community and share her vision has made her feel supported and less alone. The synergy with the Barking Enterprise Centre, where the mentors have a deep understanding of the local community, has been particularly beneficial. This support system has validated her work and its place in the community, empowering her to continue growing her business with renewed confidence and a clearer direction.

Support and in person sessions 

What Sharon enjoyed most about the Amplify programme was the invaluable support and the face-to-face interactions. She appreciated not feeling isolated and having a team that truly had her back. She loved the in-person sessions, finding them a refreshing change from the abundance of online interactions. She believes that being taught in a room full of people brings a unique energy and connection that is often missing in virtual environments. This preference for direct human contact aligns with her passion for community events and workshops, where she cherishes the opportunity to make eye contact and engage deeply with others. Sharon finds it disheartening to see people constantly buried in their phones, especially in bustling places like London, and values the personal connections that face-to-face interactions foster.

Advice for joining Amplify 

Her key advice for anyone looking to join the Amplify programme is to plan and allocate time around the workshops. She found the slides and notes provided invaluable, along with the numerous action points she gathered. However, implementing all these insights takes time. Sharon emphasises the importance of taking things step-by-step, using tools like QuickBooks to streamline tasks and free up more time. Drawing from her experience, she advises others to "crawl before they walk," especially if they're new to the industry. This approach has been beneficial for both Sharon and her new personal trainer, allowing them to build confidence and expertise gradually. She believes in the power of supporting one another and taking the time to fully grasp new skills before expanding further. She encourages others to embrace this mindset, leveraging their experience while steadily integrating the lessons from the Amplify program.

Mind Body coaching in the future 

In the coming years, Sharon sees herself becoming an expert in the mind-body connection, utilising tools like psychometric testing to assess clients' psychological readiness for change and their self-efficacy levels. She aims to be known in her community as the go-to person for comprehensive wellness support, working closely with local councils and organisations to promote a holistic approach to health. By focusing on the mental aspects of wellness, Sharon hopes to provide a deeper, more sustainable impact on her clients' lives, helping them achieve long-term success. Her vision is to create a supportive environment where individuals can learn to harness the power of their minds to achieve their wellness goals, ultimately becoming a respected figure in the field of Mind Body Coaching.

Learning lessons, the hard and the best

I had a bit of a moment last week, it suddenly occurred to me that at the end of this summer it will be 40…yes 40 years since I started working. Apart from maternity leave this means that I have never had more than two weeks off work in that many years! It got me thinking and reflecting on the hard and best lessons I have learnt and how the mentoring that I do, and the wider business support the BEC offers influences our clients experience.

The hard lessons were that at times failure is inevitable not every venture or decision has succeeded, and that failure must be part of the process. I like to think that over the years my decision making has become more balanced, I am sure there are people who will argue that, but failed decisions are a stepping stone to success.

 I have certainly learnt that the need to be adaptable more so now than ever is a crucial leadership skill, markets and technologies are changing at such an alarming rate, and I am constantly recognising that not adapting to latest trends and tech will mean that the BEC could struggle to survive. This approach is hard sometimes as we get older, we all get a bit set in our ways and change becomes more difficult to accept and embrace. In my experience there are three types of people for change management, the early adopter who embrace change, the more reticent who get there after a while and of course the odd silent saboteur who just won’t accept that things need to be different.

Controversially, another hard lesson is that the customer is not always right, but they are still a customer, and their perception and satisfaction are crucial to your business success. How complaints are managed is key in this environment, respect and empathy are the name of the game.

I love partnership working it’s at the core of what we do here at the BEC, but not every partnership has worked out, differences in vision, or values or constantly moving goal posts can cause conflict and sometimes it is better to walk away than stick with it. Contracts and Service level agreements are vital to getting this right, the days of verbal agreements are long gone.

The best lessons I have learnt are that persistence pays off, staying committed through tough times can lead to breakthroughs and the challenges can be tackled one by one. Adaptability and flexibility are crucial to being persistent, being open to change and pivot, when necessary, can help navigate those unforeseen challenges and capitalise on new opportunities.

 It might seem like common sense but in 40 years I have been and seen some appalling treatment of employees/teams. Hiring the right team and investing in them as individuals both in and out of the workplace can inform and influence business success. I am always delighted when I hear our core team and our wider associates, the mentors, service providers and trainers describe our collective approach as the BEC family. It is nice to know the investment in people is appreciated and valued. We have created a culture where our values are important from our board to our staff, and our partners and of course to our clients.

My biggest learning is to stay curious, the world of business is continually evolving, staying curious, continuous learning are what keep you ahead of the curve.

I guess to sum up all the above it demonstrates the importance of resilience, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

Embracing the start of summer – our seasonal reset

As the long, lazy days of summer begin with hopefully some decent weather to coincide, we are planning our next few months here at the BEC we use this time as our seasonal reset. We are undertaking some office moves and a revamp we spend so much time here having nice surroundings is important, and it boosts staff morale too!

We are making some physical changes to Three Sixty work rooms as well, with a new tenant taking part of the building so we will have building works to contend with as well.

Of course, we also have staff taking holidays my work wife is about to abandon me for three exceedingly long weeks 😊 last time she left emergency sweets which had gone by day two!

We have also just closed the applications for round two of Amplify which will start in September so Shanice our fab project officer is working her way through the 67 applications. It is great to see it building momentum with a 35% increase in applications and we will endeavour to support as many applications as possible. Last week our first group finished, and we had a small celebratory event, it was refreshing to hear their stories and how the programme had supported them in their business.

We are gearing up for our social sector support programme Building Bridges, which has started already but will gain momentum in September. This will mean a busy finish to the year. I am also wading my way through writing grant applications which if you are in this space can be a thankless and soul-destroying process when they are unsuccessful. I will defo need emergency sweets!

Of course, it’s still business as usual, our conference business goes quiet and we purposely stop the training calendar as its hard to focus when the children are around, but the workspaces are still busy and of course the businesses we support still need advice and mentoring as situations arise over the summer.

Starting summer break while managing work responsibilities can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some thoughts from me about how to make this time work.

1. Set Clear Boundaries

Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Create a schedule that designates specific hours for work and leisure. Communicate your availability to colleagues and stakeholders to ensure they respect your time off, the right to disconnect is invaluable.

2. Plan Mini-Breaks

Incorporate mini breaks throughout your day. Take short walks, enjoy a coffee break outside in the fresh air. These small moments can refresh your mind and help maintain productivity.

3. Use holiday Days Wisely

I have lost far too many days off to tidying cupboards, sorting wardrobes and other such things, I am sure I am not alone so, if possible, plan to take a few days at the start of summer. This will give you a solid break to recharge and transition into the summer mindset. Even a long weekend can make a substantial difference.

4. Create a Summer Bucket List

List activities you want to enjoy this summer. Include both short-term activities, like visiting a local park, and longer-term plans, like a weekend getaway or reading that book. This list can serve as a reminder to make time for fun amidst your work schedules.

5. Optimise Your Workspace

Make your work environment as pleasant as possible. If you work from home, set up your workspace near a window or add some plants. If you're in an office, take advantage of natural light and fresh air during breaks, come and work from our spaces if you need a break! Remember you can work from Three Sixty Workrooms on a Wednesday for free through the six weeks holiday.

6. Prioritise Self-Care

Summer is an excellent time to focus on self-care. The world seems a nicer place when you are mentally in a good place.

7. Leverage Flexible Work Options

If your job allows, consider flexible work options such as adjusting your hours or working remotely. This flexibility can enable you to better balance work and leisure activities.

8. Stay Organised

Use planners or digital calendars to keep track of work deadlines and personal activities. Staying organized can help reduce stress and ensure you make the most of your time.

9. Plan After-Work Activities

Make the most of your evenings and weekends. Plan activities like attending local events, dining out, or simply enjoying a sunset. These small outings can make your summer feel more fulfilling.

10. Stay Present

When you're not working, try to be fully present in your activities. Avoid checking work emails or thinking about work tasks. This mental break is crucial for enjoying your summer break.

Whatever you are doing over the summer period I hope you make time for fun as well as the serious stuff and we will see you back with our new plans for September! Of course, if you need us over the summer we will still be here, and you can get in touch through all the normal channels.

As the long, lazy days of summer begin with hopefully some decent weather to coincide, we are planning our next few months here at the BEC we use this time as our seasonal reset. We are undertaking some office moves and a revamp we spend so much time here having nice surroundings is important, and it boosts staff morale too!

We are making some physical changes to Three Sixty work rooms as well, with a new tenant taking part of the building so we will have building works to contend with as well.

Of course, we also have staff taking holidays my work wife is about to abandon me for three exceedingly long weeks 😊 last time she left emergency sweets which had gone by day two!

We have also just closed the applications for round two of Amplify which will start in September so Shanice our fab project officer is working her way through the 67 applications. It is great to see it building momentum with a 35% increase in applications and we will endeavour to support as many applications as possible. Last week our first group finished, and we had a small celebratory event, it was refreshing to hear their stories and how the programme had supported them in their business.

We are gearing up for our social sector support programme Building Bridges, which has started already but will gain momentum in September. This will mean a busy finish to the year. I am also wading my way through writing grant applications which if you are in this space can be a thankless and soul-destroying process when they are unsuccessful. I will defo need emergency sweets!

Of course, it’s still business as usual, our conference business goes quiet and we purposely stop the training calendar as its hard to focus when the children are around, but the workspaces are still busy and of course the businesses we support still need advice and mentoring as situations arise over the summer.

Starting summer break while managing work responsibilities can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are some thoughts from me about how to make this time work.

1. Set Clear Boundaries

Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Create a schedule that designates specific hours for work and leisure. Communicate your availability to colleagues and stakeholders to ensure they respect your time off, the right to disconnect is invaluable.

2. Plan Mini-Breaks

Incorporate mini breaks throughout your day. Take short walks, enjoy a coffee break outside in the fresh air. These small moments can refresh your mind and help maintain productivity.

3. Use holiday Days Wisely

I have lost far too many days off to tidying cupboards, sorting wardrobes and other such things, I am sure I am not alone so, if possible, plan to take a few days at the start of summer. This will give you a solid break to recharge and transition into the summer mindset. Even a long weekend can make a substantial difference.

4. Create a Summer Bucket List

List activities you want to enjoy this summer. Include both short-term activities, like visiting a local park, and longer-term plans, like a weekend getaway or reading that book. This list can serve as a reminder to make time for fun amidst your work schedules.

5. Optimise Your Workspace

Make your work environment as pleasant as possible. If you work from home, set up your workspace near a window or add some plants. If you're in an office, take advantage of natural light and fresh air during breaks, come and work from our spaces if you need a break! Remember you can work from Three Sixty Workrooms on a Wednesday for free through the six weeks holiday.

6. Prioritise Self-Care

Summer is an excellent time to focus on self-care. The world seems a nicer place when you are mentally in a good place.

7. Leverage Flexible Work Options

If your job allows, consider flexible work options such as adjusting your hours or working remotely. This flexibility can enable you to better balance work and leisure activities.

8. Stay Organised

Use planners or digital calendars to keep track of work deadlines and personal activities. Staying organized can help reduce stress and ensure you make the most of your time.

9. Plan After-Work Activities

Make the most of your evenings and weekends. Plan activities like attending local events, dining out, or simply enjoying a sunset. These small outings can make your summer feel more fulfilling.

10. Stay Present

When you're not working, try to be fully present in your activities. Avoid checking work emails or thinking about work tasks. This mental break is crucial for enjoying your summer break.

Whatever you are doing over the summer period I hope you make time for fun as well as the serious stuff and we will see you back with our new plans for September! Of course, if you need us over the summer we will still be here, and you can get in touch through all the normal channels.

JP’s Wild Honey Ltd and being onboard Amplify

JP, the owner of JP’s Wild Honey Ltd, first met our Chief Executive at yoga of all places, they chatted and she mentioned our Amplify programme which was about to start. JP joined the first cohort, and his journey;  we hope is representative of all our business owners experience of the BEC and the next groups on the Amplify programme

It is always great to get the backstory. We find it fascinating to find out what motivates and inspires our business owners to start, of course we  know it is not easy. JP’s journey into the beekeeping industry began after he sustained an injury while working as an electrician and plumber for a major company. After the injury, he could not return to his previous job due to the company's lack of support, and the ongoing demands of the work schedule and hours of travel it was no longer tenable. JP was in need of drastic change, a chance conversation with a friend who managed over 50 bee colonies encouraged him to attend a beekeeping course. The course instructors were curious as to who wanted to continue beekeeping as a career and he wanted to take the next step forward. JP took on the challenge and drew upon his ADHD-driven determination to learn and grow. 

JP's journey in beekeeping began modestly in late 2018 with just one hive located in a local community garden. Quickly immersing himself in the craft, he split this hive into two the following year, marking the start of his hands-on learning experience. By 2019, JP had expanded to managing seven full hives and three half colonies, achieving his first harvest of Thames view honey. His enthusiasm for beekeeping extended beyond harvesting as he went into queen rearing, eager to increase his colony numbers. One pivotal moment came when he rescued three colonies from old timber shuttering on Rainham Marshes, demonstrating his commitment to bee conservation. This act not only garnered gratitude from the local community but also forged crucial connections that would shape his future endeavours.

Inspired by these early successes, JP secured permission to place hives on marshland within Rainham Marshes, facilitated through introductions by appreciative locals. Transitioning his operations to this new flagship site was challenging yet rewarding. Despite setbacks like theft and vandalism that forced him to consolidate his hives for safety, JP's dedication remained unwavering. He expanded rapidly, managing 25 hives and 10 half colonies within a year, meticulously dividing his attention between the community garden and Rainham Marshes. His efforts culminated in 56 full hives by 2021, a testament to his perseverance and strategic vision. However, adversity struck again with the Wennington fire, causing a significant setback by destroying 22 hives. Despite these challenges, he persevered, investing £3,500 in bees and equipment to rebuild his operation and continue pursuing his dream.

About JP’s Wild Honey

At JP's Wild Honey Ltd, a passion for pure honey is combined with a commitment to bee welfare and environmental sustainability, encouraging the relationship between nature and business. Essentially healthy bees support a thriving ecosystem. It doesn't just stop there, the hives are in Essex's woodlands, and wetlands and the commitment to eco-friendly packaging makes this meet Amplify’s sustainability goals. Beyond honey, the business offers natural cosmetics and soaps, inspired by his partner's health needs for products that are natural. 

When you talk to JP his joy  and passion for honey and nature shines through, and you can find him at local fairs, markets and other events.  For JP, it doesn't feel like work; it's simply a way of life. 

The challenges 

One of the most challenging aspects of the beekeeping industry is managing equipment and resources. Currently, he faces a shortage of boxes for storing honey, and his extractor recently broke down. However, new parts are on the way, and once repaired, he can resume extracting honey and keeping the process flowing smoothly. JP is committed to his bees; he understands that neglecting them could lead to swarming, loss of honey, and potential issues for others. Effective management is crucial, with him overseeing 47 colonies with plans for additional ones next year. This dedication to careful management ensures the health of the bees and the success of the business. 

JP and the Amplify programme

Participating in the BEC's Amplify programme introduced him to a structured approach to expand his business knowledge. The programme built upon his existing expertise in beekeeping by offering practical guidance and solutions. He found the sessions beneficial, especially when facing new challenges, as he could discuss and resolve issues promptly with the support team. Julie, who leads food courses at the BEC, also impressed JP with her expertise and enthusiasm for organic foods. They explored possibilities of integrating JP's honey into her culinary creations, showcasing a natural connection in their collaboration. This organic networking approach allowed JP to forge meaningful connections and partnerships seamlessly, enhancing his business prospects without the usual pressures of forced networking.

 JP says “I'm just so thankful for the course. It's really helped me out. It’s made a real difference”

The future of JP’s Wild Honey

JP’s focus is on prioritising  sustainable growth without losing that so important personal touch! He plans to enhance efficiency by investing in more equipment to streamline processes like jarring and extracting. Optimisation of  these tasks will  free up time for other aspects outside of his business.  We know that JP is committed to maintaining the integrity and quality of his honey products, ensuring that each jar is a mix of honey, bee welfare and sustainability. 

Here at the BEC we cannot wait to see what comes next 

What has Bridgerton got to do with female entrepreneurship?

Dear Gentle Readers, sorry I just had to write that and get my Lady Whistledown moment! Like many of us I have been hooked with the third series of Bridgerton, I was an avid fan from day one.

I managed to catch the first four episodes of series three before going on holiday and then binge watched on my return whilst wading through the inevitable amount of holiday washing; back to earth with a bump heh!

If you are not familiar with Bridgerton, one could ask where have you been hiding? 😊 but for those who have not seen it, it’s a period drama series set in Regency times based on Julia Quinn's novels. It has been praised for its progressive approach to themes like race, gender, and female persona’s. One of the series' notable subtle themes is female empowerment, including aspects of female entrepreneurship. There are several powerful characters who demonstrate influence, business acumen, and of course Lady Whistledown who secretly writes a society paper, calling out bad behaviour and popular news much to the Queen’s distaste. I won’t reveal the full plot in case you are intrigued to watch or are still catching up.

However, whilst on leave I was thinking of how Bridgerton has strong links with modern female entrepreneurship, particularly how it resonates with modern audiences. It is evident that female representation is a key feature of the programme, and it highlights independent and entrepreneurial female characters who defy traditional gender roles. This aligns with current trends where women are increasingly starting their own businesses and supporting the economy with a positive impact.

"Bridgerton" offers a compelling lens through which to examine modern female entrepreneurship, drawing parallels between the show's portrayal of female empowerment and the realities faced by contemporary women in business.

Here are my reflections.

Breaking Barriers - Key characters break societal norms and assert their independence in a male-dominated society, and of course women entrepreneurs today exemplify this trend.

Innovation and Adaptability – the characters   often demonstrate innovative thinking to navigate social constraints. For example, Madame Delacroix's success as a dressmaker requires creativity and adaptability. Of course, today’s female entrepreneurs use innovation to create niche markets, such as sustainable fashion, tech startups, and wellness industries. They adapt to changing market demands and use technology to their advantage.

Networking and Mentorship – throughout the programme you can see social networks and alliances female characters form which are crucial to the plots and the characters success. We see here at the BEC a continuous model of women supporting women.

Resilience and Perseverance – the female characters face societal pressures as it would have been in regency times, but nowadays resilience is the epitome of successful female business owners. Often facing the unique challenges of family responsibilities, gender bias and securing funding but despite all of this they persist and thrive.

I personally think "Bridgerton" effectively mirrors the journey of modern female entrepreneurs, highlighting themes of resilience, innovation, and empowerment. By drawing inspiration from the show's characters and their narratives, contemporary women can find motivation and confidence to navigate their entrepreneurial paths.

Here at the BEC we are proud to be advocates of female business owners, on our new (relatively) programme Amplify funded by the Council and UKSPF we are proud that 75% of our first cohort are female business owners in food, care, and of course other sectors.

We are currently recruiting our next cohort for September if you are in Barking and Dagenham then you can use this link to register your interest.  Link

PS its open to any gender!