The Founders Series: Small Steps, Big Impact—December’s UK Entrepreneurs Focused on Meaningful Change

The Founders Series: December’s Entrepreneurs Rewriting the Rules with Creativity and Dedication

The Founders Series: December’s Entrepreneurs Turning Creative Ideas into Purposeful Businesses

The Founders Series: December’s UK Founders Building Businesses That Matter, Not Just Profit

The Founders Series: How UK Founders Are Keeping It Real with Meaningful, Practical Businesses This December

The Founders Series: December’s Founders Proving That Resilience and Passion Lead to Success

The Founder Series: December’s UK Entrepreneurs Creating Change with Quiet Ambition and Thoughtful Ideas

The Founder Series: November's UK Founders Combining Passion, Sustainability, and Innovation

The Founder Series: November’s Founders Improving Wellness, Coffee, and Community in UK

The Founder Series: Craft, Community, and Climate at the Heart of UK Entrepreneurship this November

The Founders Series: UK Entrepreneurs Leading with Passion and Sustainability This December

The Founder Series: UK Entrepreneurs in December Making Waves with Practical, Impactful Ideas

The Founder Series: December's UK Founders Making a Difference with Simple, Sustainable Solutions

The Founders Series: UK Entrepreneurs in December Balancing Tradition with Innovation for a Greener Tomorrow

The Founder Series: Creative Visions Lighting Up December’s UK Market

The Founder Series: December’s UK Founders Navigating Success with Heartfelt Innovation and Integrity

The Founder Series: December’s UK Entrepreneurs Finding Success Through Values, Innovation, and Craftsmanship

The Founder Series: December Stories of Creativity, Sustainability, and Hard Work

The Founder Series: Sustainability and Customization Driving UK Business Success

The Founder Series: UK Founders in December Building from Passion and Practicality

The Founders Series: UK Founders This December Focused on Purpose, Not Perfection

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The Founders Series: Octobers Lifestyle and Wellness Innovators in UK Ecommerce

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The Founder Series: Female E-commerce Founders Redefining Business with Purpose in UK

The Founder Series: 5 UK Ecom Minds to Know This October

The Founders Series: 5 UK ecommerce founders of October (Week 42)

The Founders Series: 5 UK ecommerce founders of October

Exploring Agency Founders in Sweden this October

Exploring Agency Founders in Denmark this October

Exploring Ecommerce Founders in The Netherlands this October

Exploring Ecommerce Founders in Germany this October

As the holiday season approaches, we’re spotlighting five UK-based entrepreneurs who are making meaningful contributions in their industries. From accessible skiwear rentals to empowering jewelry designs, these founders are prioritizing sustainability, creativity, and community in their work. How are they standing out in today’s competitive markets? Let’s explore their stories in this week’s Founder Series.

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December 16, 2024

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This week’s Founder Series introduces five entrepreneurs who are carving their own paths in industries from history education to fashion, with a focus on sustainability and authenticity. Whether it’s Alex Churchill’s dedication to bringing history to life through The Great War Group or Bruce King’s innovative marketing strategies with Out’a The Box Marketing Ltd, each founder brings something distinct to the table. Paige Fashoni’s Fluxies is challenging the status quo of period products, offering sustainable and comfortable alternatives, while Jak Beula’s Nubian Jak Community Trust is making strides in cultural awareness and education. James Gaubert’s Republiqe is stepping into the future of fashion with virtual clothing, proving that the digital world holds endless possibilities. These founders are not just riding the wave of trends—they’re creating ripples that will last for years to come.

It’s December, and while the world is abuzz with end-of-year celebrations, these founders are quietly making waves in their respective fields. Each of their journeys is unique, yet all share a common thread: the courage to start something meaningful. Kate Shelley is equipping young minds with the power of storytelling through Tales Toolkit, while Amechi Mandi is reclaiming African-inspired design with elegance and authenticity. Meanwhile, Kuldip Singh Sahota’s Mr. Singhs is spicing up snack time with bold flavors, Oana Trinca’s Bee Zero Waste is offering sustainable solutions with style, and Nikki Lloyd’s Lush Labs Natural is championing ethical skincare manufacturing for small businesses. But what really makes them stand out is how their ventures address real-world challenges: sustainability, creativity, and community building. Their paths weren’t smooth—think financial hurdles, balancing personal lives, and building the right teams—but they pressed forward with unwavering dedication.

In this week’s Founder Series, we meet five entrepreneurs whose businesses reflect the creativity, determination, and purpose driving today’s most impactful ventures. These founders, hailing from various industries, share a common commitment to solving problems and creating meaningful connections through their work. Elizabeth Hewitt uses her art to promote mental health awareness, combining her talent for portraits and landscapes with a deeper message. Niall Greenan’s Smart Bunker offers a straightforward solution to an age-old problem with innovative storage design. Tanya Rodgers empowers passion-led businesses with bespoke branding through Me & Spirit Creative. Bill Strohacker is redefining design education with a hands-on approach at his independent school. Finally, Hannah Attalah’s artisanal swimwear blends sustainability and style, offering a unique take on slow fashion. Each of these founders has overcome challenges, stayed focused on their goals, and demonstrated the resilience required to grow a business in today’s world.

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In this week’s Founder Series, we highlight five entrepreneurs whose work is rooted in addressing everyday challenges. From supporting individuals with learning disabilities to offering inclusive fashion, their businesses aren’t just about making money—they’re about making a difference. Nick Walsh’s Nickel Support is focused on empowering people with learning disabilities to thrive, providing a holistic approach that includes work opportunities and life skills. Paul Blair’s ArcX Technology has developed smart rings that help people control devices hands-free, offering a more practical solution for active users. Chamiah Dewey’s DEWEY is addressing the underrepresented petite market with fashion that’s both stylish and inclusive. Sholto and Hugo Brown’s id-iom continues to experiment with art that blends urban culture and personal expression. Finally, Eva Malley’s accessible art products provide an affordable way for everyone to engage with creativity. Each of these founders has faced unique challenges, from funding issues to balancing personal lives with business growth. But what unites them is a clear focus on solving practical problems and staying true to their values. They’re showing that businesses can succeed while making a real difference.

In this week’s Founder Series, we shine a light on five entrepreneurs who are creating meaningful contributions in their industries through passion and determination. Denholm Spurr of OffWestEnd champions independent theatres in London, helping them find a collective voice. Chris O’Brien at RunTeach uses his understanding of neuroscience to support people in managing pain and improving performance. Jean Haines shares her love of painting through Watercolour Inspiration, inspiring creativity and personal expression. Megan Lomax, alongside her husband, designs practical outdoor gear for families through Rubbaglove Ltd. And finally, Audra Daws-Knowles curates unique and authentic vintage jewelry with her business, Audra’s Brooches. Their journeys highlight the rewards of staying true to one’s mission and finding creative solutions to challenges, no matter the scale of the venture.

As the year draws to a close, the business world continues to evolve. In this edition of The Founder Series, we explore the journeys of five UK entrepreneurs who are making their mark by challenging the norms of their respective industries. Stacie McCormick’s Fair Art Fair is transforming the art world by breaking down barriers and connecting artists with collectors in more personal, meaningful ways. Jeremy Mitchell’s Upbeat Spirits is redefining the spiced rum category, tapping into the heart of music and culture. From the eco-conscious efforts of Friendly Soap’s Geoff Kerouac to the design-driven luxury interiors of Anna Agapova’s O&A London, these founders are not just responding to changing consumer needs—they’re shaping the future of business by staying grounded in their values. Join us as we take a closer look at how they’re navigating the challenges of 2024 while remaining true to their unique visions.

In today’s e-commerce landscape, meeting consumer expectations is key to staying competitive. Shoppers increasingly value businesses that prioritize sustainability, offer creative solutions, and foster genuine connections. Aligning with these trends is not just a choice—it’s a necessity for success. This week, we highlight five UK-based entrepreneurs who are quietly making a difference in fields as varied as fashion, photography, and food delivery. From Claire King’s sustainable fashion platform, King & Eye, to Alec White’s efforts in regenerative farming at Primrose Hall Peonies, these founders are showing that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of values. Whether it’s reducing environmental impact, championing local craftsmanship, or building trust with their customers, these entrepreneurs are finding ways to thrive while staying true to their principles. Let’s explore their stories, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

As the colder months approach, we’re reminded that, just like the seasons, the business landscape is constantly changing. In this week's Founder Series, we spotlight five UK entrepreneurs who are quietly shaping their industries with thoughtful, purpose-driven work. In this month's Founder Series, we spotlight five UK entrepreneurs who are quietly shaping their industries with thoughtful, purpose-driven work. From sustainable cold water therapy to high-quality artisanal yarns, these founders are demonstrating how passion, persistence, and a commitment to values can create meaningful businesses. Each of their journeys reflects a dedication to quality, community, and the belief that doing things the right way is always worth the effort.

What does it take to build a business that goes beyond convenience to truly inspire? For these five founders, the answer lies in creativity, purpose, and a strong foundation of passion and unique offerings. From fostering community to crafting distinctive products and experiences, their ventures reflect the growing demand for authenticity and meaningful connections in today’s market. From curating contemporary design platforms to preserving heritage skills like traditional boatbuilding, these founders are carving out unique niches in their respective fields. Their businesses prioritize creativity, quality, and meaningful connections, reflecting a deep commitment to purpose and authenticity. By combining their personal passions with innovative approaches, they’re meeting the needs of today’s discerning consumers while setting examples of what thoughtful entrepreneurship can achieve.In a world where consumer priorities are shifting toward sustainability, innovation, and meaningful connections, this week's Founder Series showcases five UK entrepreneurs who are perfectly aligned with these changing expectations. From tackling climate change with sustainable fashion to offering creative ways for people to reconnect in a post-pandemic world, these founders are meeting the demands of a market that values purpose-driven businesses. Each has found a way to balance but also responding to the evolving needs of today's consumers.

In today’s ever-evolving marketplace, businesses that stand out are those that tap into both passion and purpose. This week, we focus on five UK-based entrepreneurs who are blending creativity with meaningful missions. From Cool Car Limited’s specialized mobile air conditioning services to Bare Kind’s eco-friendly fashion that supports wildlife conservation, these founders are meeting consumer needs while driving positive change. Their journeys showcase how passion can fuel not just personal success but broader impacts—from protecting endangered species to fostering global communities of craft enthusiasts. As we approach the season of giving, these entrepreneurs highlight how doing business with purpose can lead to both growth and genuine impact.

As we enter the final stretch of the year, these founders are quietly transforming their respective industries. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, they’re focusing on what matters: creating businesses that resonate with a generation of consumers who seek purpose behind their purchases. Scarlet Alexandra’s SAX DOODLE reimagines how we view cities through travel posters that capture the essence of a place, rather than its clichés. Dr. Sean Radford’s TrainAsONE is making running more accessible and effective by personalizing training with AI, showing how technology can be harnessed for real-world improvements. Their businesses are examples of how combining passion with practical innovation can create lasting impact.

In an era where consumers are seeking more than just products—they’re looking for meaningful connections—these five UK entrepreneurs stand out for their ability to merge passion with practical solutions. From Kim Lawless' The Wax Queen Ltd, which redefines beauty care through skillful training and innovative products, to Nathalie Gibbins' Pow Pots, which infuses vibrant artistry into everyday items, these founders are creating businesses that resonate deeply with their communities. Their ventures prove that entrepreneurship isn’t just about meeting market demands; it’s about addressing real needs, personal challenges, and crafting experiences that make a lasting impact. Let’s take a closer look at how their creativity, resilience, and commitment to authenticity have paved the way for success.

The shift in consumer preferences towards quality, sustainability, and authenticity has made an undeniable mark on today’s business landscape. This week’s Founder Series introduces five entrepreneurs who are harnessing these trends to build distinctive brands. Whether it’s giving overlooked authors a platform, crafting award-winning beers, or innovating in the whisky industry, these founders are making waves in their respective fields. What unites them is a clear commitment to offering products and services that meet the evolving expectations of today’s consumer, all while staying true to their values and vision.

As the holiday season gains momentum, consumers are searching for products that combine quality with authenticity. This week’s Founder Series highlights five remarkable UK entrepreneurs whose businesses bring joy, sustainability, and innovation to the forefront. From Catherine Kay’s whimsical designs at Katnipp Studios Limited to Dan Shearman’s ethical food innovations at The WilderKitchen, these founders embody the values driving today’s market. Each of their ventures reflects a commitment to their craft and a deep understanding of what modern consumers value most: purpose-driven products, meaningful stories, and thoughtful connections. Through their creativity and resilience, these entrepreneurs are carving out distinctive spaces in industries as diverse as photography, fine jewelry, and sustainable food. Let’s delve into their journeys, challenges, and the impactful ways they’re shaping their respective markets.

In an era where consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability and deeper connections, these five UK-based entrepreneurs have found ways to balance profit with purpose. Whether it’s offering creative products that enhance personal spaces or providing innovative solutions for modern transportation, each founder’s journey reflects a commitment to both their industries and the communities they serve. With the holiday season in full swing, these businesses demonstrate that it’s possible to grow while staying true to the values that matter most. In this edition of The Founder Series, we spotlight their efforts to create meaningful impact—one business at a time.

This week’s Founder Series highlights the power of combining personal passion with a purposeful mission. Each of these five UK entrepreneurs has built a business that not only meets modern consumer demands but also reflects their values and creative approaches. From Alastair Gibson’s intricate carbon-fiber sculptures that celebrate the beauty of engineering and nature, to Deborah Cadby’s sustainable jewelry crafted from antique stones, these founders are finding unique ways to connect with their audiences. Whether it's supporting mental well-being through art, enhancing musical journeys with innovative tools, or tackling environmental concerns with sustainable printing, they exemplify the creativity and resilience needed to thrive in today’s competitive market. As we explore their journeys, challenges, and accomplishments, we see how they’ve transformed personal passion into tangible solutions that leave a lasting impression on their industries and communities.

As December kicks off, the season of thoughtful giving and mindful consumption is upon us. In this week’s Founder Series, we’re spotlighting five UK entrepreneurs whose businesses align perfectly with today’s demand for creativity, sustainability, and community connection. Jennifer Countess von Walderdorff champions sustainable fashion with Look at the Labels, a platform empowering consumers to shop responsibly. Caroline Boff’s vibrant artwork uplifts viewers, showing the power of creativity to inspire. Marek Lukacovic’s brands, Strike and AlviPro, focus on ethical growth in sportswear and wellness. Scott Benefield preserves traditional glassblowing craftsmanship through his Northern Ireland studio, and Jefferson Boss of StarmoreBoss redefines drinks retail with innovation and education. Amid ongoing shifts in consumer values, these founders stand out for their ability to adapt, connect, and make a positive impact. Their stories highlight how passion and purpose can shape industries, spark meaningful connections, and thrive in an ever-evolving market.

In this week’s Founder Series, we turn the spotlight on five UK entrepreneurs who are solving real problems with their businesses. Whether it’s offering tailored leather jackets or reinventing how furniture is personalized, these founders are creating products and services that reflect the changing needs of consumers. As the holiday season ramps up, they’re finding ways to balance growth with staying true to their missions. Here’s a closer look at how they’re navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and leaving their mark on the e-commerce landscape.

What inspires an entrepreneur to turn personal frustrations, dreams, or passions into thriving businesses? This week’s Founder Series introduces five UK entrepreneurs who have done just that, bringing fresh perspectives to their industries. From crafting biodegradable sunglasses to offering new approaches in children’s education, these founders demonstrate that combining purpose with innovation leads to meaningful outcomes. Rou Chater’s FacePlant is redefining eyewear with eco-friendly, replaceable lenses, while Jim Ashley’s Outlaw Rum challenges the status quo in premium spirits. Meanwhile, Robert McKain’s Pure Roasters Coffee pioneers a sustainable approach to roasting, Katie Godfrey creates opportunities in beauty and coaching, and Ruth Bradford’s Little Black & White Book Project sparks curiosity and conservation in children. Their stories highlight not just business acumen but also how purpose-driven innovation can address consumer demands while leaving a lasting impact.

In this week's Founder Series, we explore the stories of five entrepreneurs who are transforming their industries with thoughtful, values-driven approaches. Each founder brings a unique vision to their work, whether it’s crafting urban contemporary art, redefining natural perfumery, or championing inclusion through music. From Otto Schade’s striking murals that blend art with social commentary to Chantal Kerr-Sheppard’s efforts to make events sustainable through Event Cycle, these founders are setting powerful examples of innovation and purpose. Meanwhile, Kershen Teo and Sophie King are reimagining perfumery, offering ethical alternatives that resonate with modern consumers. Lastly, Susan Zur-Szpiro’s leadership of The AutistiX is breaking barriers in music by highlighting inclusion and the value of diverse talent. Each of these ventures not only addresses market demands but also creates lasting impact, offering lessons in resilience, creativity, and staying true to one’s mission.

In today’s ever-changing business landscape, success isn’t always about grand gestures or big investments—it’s about solving problems, staying true to values, and building meaningful connections. For these five founders, each day is about doing just that. Conor Rees started 99 Percent Lifestyle to share the stories of creative entrepreneurs who are making a difference, while Ernest Amoako’s Blanqo helps holidaymakers enjoy their skiing experience without the hefty price tag. Vladislav Barrow’s AI Art Shop brings technology and art together, offering a new platform for digital creators, while Lisa Gorenflo’s Mantrailing Global is teaching dogs and owners to work together in ways that foster a real sense of community. Cristina Leone Santos’s Puzzle Designs creates jewelry that empowers women to feel confident, without compromising on quality. These founders are quietly shaping their industries with thoughtful, practical approaches.

In an increasingly fast-paced world, wellness and lifestyle brands are finding ways to slow down and focus on what truly matters. These five founders have each developed businesses that prioritize quality, connection, and purpose over mass production and rapid growth. Whether it’s by supporting the physical goals of endurance athletes, creating artisanal products that celebrate craftsmanship, or offering art that resonates on a personal level, these entrepreneurs are reshaping the way we think about lifestyle and wellness. Here’s how they’re enriching lives, building communities, and making a meaningful impact through their innovative approaches.

In an industry where convenience and speed often overshadow sustainability, these five founders are showing that online retail can have a conscience. Each of them has built a brand that prioritizes responsible sourcing, environmental impact, and lasting quality over fast profits. Whether it’s transforming waste into fashion or creating energy-efficient lighting solutions, these entrepreneurs are using e-commerce as a platform to drive positive change. Here’s how they’re combining business with purpose, turning ethical craftsmanship into a competitive advantage, and inspiring a new wave of consumer responsibility.

In a space where large-scale corporations and rapid algorithms dictate the pace, e-commerce may seem like an unlikely field for deeply personal, purpose-driven brands. But these five women are proving that e-commerce can be more than just a storefront; it can be a meaningful connection between brands and consumers. They’re showing that digital platforms can support ethical businesses that are as diverse as their founders, from cultural products and eco-friendly goods to personal wellness services. Each founder’s story is a testament to resilience and creativity in a rapidly evolving market.

In a world where consumer priorities are shifting toward sustainability, innovation, and meaningful connections, this week’s Founder Series showcases five UK entrepreneurs who are perfectly aligned with these changing expectations. From tackling climate change with carbon-negative products to offering creative ways for people to reconnect in a post-pandemic world, these founders are meeting the demands of a market that values purpose-driven businesses. Each has found a way to balance profitability with values, staying resilient through the challenges of modern entrepreneurship. And this is why we’re zooming in on these founders this week—to explore how their visions are not only contributing to their industries but also responding to the evolving needs of today’s consumers.

The UK e-commerce sector offers both exciting opportunities and significant challenges, as seen through the experiences of this week’s featured founders. From Jordan Sheppard’s innovative affiliate program at Voltsco to Aidan Farrell’s success in the electric bike market with Go Off-Road Barnsley & Wakefield, each entrepreneur has found a unique way to thrive. Lauretta and Sharon Gavin have made wellness accessible through their brand, Gavin Sisters, while Abigail Ahern continues to redefine home décor with Abigail Ahern Interiors. Meanwhile, Guy Bolton’s Greasy Kulture proves that print media still has a place in niche markets like custom motorcycles. These founders share their stories of overcoming cash flow issues, building loyal customer bases, and creating innovative solutions in their respective industries.

Though called an industry generally, and by us on the UNREAL Rockstars editorial team, e-commerce isn’t exactly an industry—rather, it functions as a point of sale for many industries. This dynamic makes the e-commerce landscape broad and explorative, spanning everything from colorful diamonds and shiny objects to the blended worlds of music and café life. And exactly this is what we have in store for this feature, starting with the lucrative diamond industry.

If you are a founder or C-level executive at a Swedish agency, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always looking to connect with leaders who are willing to share their experiences, challenges, and insights. By reaching out, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with us as we explore your unique story and showcase what it's like to navigate the agency world in Sweden. Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re excited to learn more about your journey.

If you are a founder or C-level executive at a Danish agency, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always looking to connect with leaders who are willing to share their experiences, challenges, and insights. By reaching out, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with us as we explore your unique story and showcase what it's like to navigate the agency world in Denmark. Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re excited to learn more about your journey.

We will be taking a closer look at a handful inspiring journeys of five ecommerce founders from the Netherlands, navigating trials and triumphs to build businesses around hands-on solutions to practical problems. In the rapidly evolving Dutch ecommerce landscape, determined entrepreneurs are stepping up to create value, break new ground, and provide innovative solutions. This article features five founders from the Netherlands who have successfully addressed industry-specific challenges to carve out a niche in the country's competitive ecommerce scene. From optimizing supply chains for small online retailers to enhancing customer experiences with cutting-edge platforms, these forward-thinking Dutch entrepreneurs are leveraging their unique strengths and passion to redefine ecommerce in the Netherlands. Each founder's journey offers valuable insights into adopting innovative yet pragmatic business strategies, overcoming operational hurdles, and setting clear, achievable goals in the Dutch market.

We will take a closer look at handful inspiring journeys of five ecommerce founders from Germany, navigating trials and triumphs to build businesses around hands-on solutions to practical problems. In the fast-paced German ecommerce landscape, determined entrepreneurs are stepping up to create value, break new ground, and provide innovative solutions. This article features five founders from Germany who have successfully addressed industry-specific challenges to carve out a niche in the country's competitive ecommerce scene. From optimizing supply chains for small online retailers to enhancing customer experiences with innovative platforms, these forward-thinking German entrepreneurs are leveraging their unique strengths and passion to redefine ecommerce in Germany. Each founder's journey offers valuable insights into adopting innovative yet pragmatic business strategies, overcoming operational hurdles, and setting clear, achievable goals in the German market.

99 Percent Lifestyle

Conor Rees

With a passion for storytelling and a love for beautiful physical media, Conor Rees founded 99 Percent Lifestyle to share stories and articles about the world's best creatives and entrepreneurs. "I wanted to focus on creators and their work and stories and how they can influence, inspire and teach people to continue and build their work creative ventures or businesses," Conor says.

Conor's background

Conor grew up in Birmingham, UK, and developed a love for writing and storytelling from a young age. After graduating with a degree in journalism, he decided to start his own print magazine to share stories of other creators and entrepreneurs. "I love to travel and write fiction in my spare time as well as staying fit and reading," Conor says.

More about 99 Percent Lifestyle

99 Percent Lifestyle is a magazine that features around 20 articles from all corners of the globe. The magazine also has a podcast that acts as a digital supplement to continue the conversations between issues. "We work really hard, watch every interview and read everything that's available online to understand our interviewees and aim to make sure we are asking questions that they haven't been asked before," Conor explains.

Key challenges

One of the biggest challenges Conor faced was setting up the business by himself. "Budgets are very tight and slim in order to stay operational," Conor says. However, he has pushed past this and continues to produce digital content and ship magazines directly to consumers through the website.

Successful highlights

Conor is extremely proud to have built up the business and published six issues. "Every interview has been conducted by me, all the website, social, distribution, sales, marketing and everything else in between," Conor says. This led to the point of 99 Percent Lifestyle being awarded the Best Magazine of the Year at the Midlands Media Awards.

Blanqo

Ernest Amoako

Ernest Amoako founded Blanqo to rent out premium skiwear to holiday-makers. "Skiwear is expensive and is used infrequently," Ernest says. "Those that can afford to buy are forced into making a long-term investment, despite their changing needs; and those that can't afford to buy are priced out of enjoying an incredible (but expensive) sport."

Ernest's background

Ernest was born in London and moved to Fenny Compton, a small village in Warwickshire, when he was eight. He studied Economics at the University of Nottingham and then worked in banking and consulting. "I was always interested in business and studied Economics at university," Ernest says.

More about Blanqo

Blanqo is the only UK company that exclusively rents out premium skiwear. "We believe that holiday-makers should be able to look and feel great on every ski trip, whilst also avoiding the high cost of buying skiwear," Ernest explains. The company also focuses on sustainability, with eco-friendly cleaning processes and reusable packaging.

Key challenges

One of the biggest challenges Ernest faced was starting the business. "We experienced many challenges at the start, including convincing premium brands to try rental," Ernest says. However, he has persevered and the company has grown, with a very high TrustPilot score of 4.8.

Successful highlights

Ernest is most proud of the impact Blanqo has on its customers. "We've had some great press features, including Vogue, The Sunday Times and The Telegraph," Ernest says. "However, I'm most proud of the impact we have on our customers as seen in our reviews."

AI Art Shop

Vladislav Barrow

Vladislav Barrow founded AI Art Shop to provide a platform for artists to sell their AI-generated artworks. "AI Art Shop is an online marketplace that offers a vast collection of original paintings created by artificial intelligence algorithms and human AI artists," Vladislav says.

Vladislav's background

Vladislav was born in an international family and moved to the UK when he was 15. He studied Economics at the University of Warwick and then worked in investment banking. "I've always been more quantitatively minded; however, ever since I was a teenager I have always found music and art to be my creative outlets," Vladislav says.

More about AI Art Shop

AI Art Shop allows customers to browse, customize, and purchase AI-generated artworks in various styles and formats. "The platform addresses several challenges in the art market, including accessibility, customization, and authenticity," Vladislav explains.

Key challenges

One of the biggest challenges Vladislav faced was getting publicity for AI Art. "When I started the business in 2020, the key challenge was getting publicity as AI Art was something completely new and something that not many people had heard of before," Vladislav says.

Successful highlights

Vladislav is proud of the growth of the business. "The proudest achievement was to see how this project gradually grew and was eventually transformed into the world's first marketplace for AI Art," Vladislav says.

Mantrailing Global

Lisa Gorenflo

Lisa Gorenflo founded Mantrailing Global to provide training for dogs and their owners. "Mantrailing is a sport teaching dogs to find people by following their unique scent trail," Lisa says.

Lisa's background

Lisa discovered Mantrailing in Germany and quickly became hooked. She began searching for this kind of training in the UK but was disappointed to not find anything available. "I then made the decision to begin offering Mantrailing as a new service to offer my clients," Lisa says.

More about Mantrailing Global

Mantrailing Global provides training for dogs and their owners. "We pride ourselves in the community we have built, promoting our Instructors to work together and not against each other," Lisa explains.

Key challenges

One of the biggest challenges Lisa faced was adapting operational Mantrailing training techniques to effectively suit the needs of pet dog and owner teams. "This is what we take pride in, as it ensures inclusivity and success for everyone involved," Lisa says.

Successful highlights

Lisa is proud of the community she has built. "Creating a vibrant community where instructors collaborate and support one another rather than competing, something which is rare to find in the dog training world," Lisa says.

Puzzle Designs

Cristina Leone Santos

Cristina Leone Santos founded Puzzle Designs to create beautiful, high-quality jewelry that empowers and inspires women. "My goal is to help women feel confident and powerful through our accessories," Cristina says.

Cristina's background

Cristina grew up in Venezuela and moved to the UK 11 years ago. She has always been passionate about jewelry design and started selling simple earrings to her teachers when she was 12. "I remember I sold simple earrings to my teachers, and after years of dreaming and dedication, I'm now able to share my creations full-time through Puzzle Designs," Cristina says.

More about Puzzle Designs

Puzzle Designs creates jewelry that is waterproof and nickel-free. "Most of our pieces are waterproof and nickel-free, so you can wear them every day without worry," Cristina explains.

Key challenges

One of the biggest challenges Cristina faced was a scam that hit the business hard. "I was honestly ready to close my store; I just didn't know how to keep going," Cristina says. However, she persevered and the business has grown, with a viral video of the charm bar on the website.

Successful highlights

Cristina is proud of the growth of the business. "My proudest achievement since launching Puzzle Designs has to be working with NYX Cosmetics," Cristina says.

Final Remarks

The journeys of these founders highlight the power of persistence and purpose. From Conor Rees’s passion for storytelling at 99 Percent Lifestyle to Vladislav Barrow’s innovative approach with AI Art Shop, each founder has found a way to make their vision a reality. Ernest Amoako’s Blanqo is creating a more sustainable way for people to enjoy skiing, while Lisa Gorenflo’s Mantrailing Global is building a community of dog trainers who support one another. Cristina Leone Santos’s Puzzle Designs proves that small businesses can have a big impact, empowering women through simple, thoughtful design. These founders remind us that success doesn’t always have to be flashy—it’s often about staying committed to a purpose and making a real difference in people’s lives. As Lisa Gorenflo puts it, “Building something meaningful isn’t easy, but it’s always worth it.”

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