As the year draws to a close and the holiday spirit sets in, it’s time to shine a light on some truly standout entrepreneurs. This week’s Founder Series highlights five UK-based founders who are building businesses grounded in creativity, purpose, and sustainability. From history education to sustainable fashion and groundbreaking marketing strategies, these entrepreneurs are showing us how innovation meets resilience in today’s fast-moving world. What drives their success, and how are they tackling the challenges of building businesses that matter?
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.
This week’s Founder Series takes a close look at five UK entrepreneurs whose journeys highlight the power of adaptability and persistence. Each of these founders has built a business that’s grounded in both creativity and practicality, offering products and services that solve real-world problems. From Hugo Spiegl’s transformation of his family’s printing business into a handmade stationery brand, to Emily Lamb’s rise in the luxury cake stand world, these founders are showing that growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of staying true to your mission. Despite facing their own set of challenges—from Brexit to navigating the pandemic—they’ve managed to create something that resonates with customers and addresses the needs of today’s market.
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.
In a business where trust is as valuable as the diamonds themselves, Alex Churchill's Great War Group is a shining example of how to build a successful company around a shared passion. 'The objects of the Great War Group is to advance the education of the public in the subject of The First World War by providing conferences, seminars and educational material to facilitate education and learning in the subject of The Great War,' Alex explains.
Growing up in London, Alex developed a unique perspective on history. He left school at 16 and it took him a while to go back. He self-taught the content for his A-Levels and took them as an external candidate whilst working full time. It was only in 2016 that he finally took up history full time, and he credits the pandemic with helping his career develop.
The Great War Group provides conferences, seminars, and educational material to facilitate education and learning in the subject of The Great War. 'It has a much wider demographic appeal than similar organisations and we aim to be encouraging to those setting out on a road of discovering their talents in writing or presenting on Great War topics,' Alex says.
The biggest challenge the company faced was a serious financial situation due to a co-founder not carrying out their responsibilities. 'That trustee was asked to step down from all rolls and a more rigorous check on outgoings was put in place,' Alex explains.
Alex's proudest achievement has been seeing the tangible impact the company has had on people's lives. 'Having just produced our 17th quarterly magazine of over 100 pages and noting that over those editions, dozens of members have written for an audience for the first time in their lives and then also presented live or on-line for the first time at our Annual Conference or in our talks,' he says.
In a business where trust is as valuable as the diamonds themselves, Bruce King's Out'a The Box marketing Ltd is a shining example of how to build a successful company around a shared passion. 'I help SMEs to achieve their personal and business goals,' Bruce explains.
Bruce is based in London, England but works internationally. He earned his PhD in nutrition, qualified as an acupuncturist and studied extensively on personal development strategies with some of the world's top coaches.
The company provides a systematic approach to helping SMEs achieve their goals. 'I have a systematic approach which I have honed to near perfection over the last few years and works with every business owner who puts what I teach them and help them with into action,' Bruce says.
The biggest challenge the company faced was getting customers. 'I do what I teach and that works for me too,' Bruce explains.
Bruce's proudest achievement has been hitting every one of his growth goals. 'I won't work on establishing them until the Christmas holidays,' he says.
In a business where trust is as valuable as the diamonds themselves, Paige Fashoni's fluxies is a shining example of how to build a successful company around a shared passion. 'We provide sustainable, comfortable, and reliable alternatives to traditional menstrual products,' Paige explains.
Paige is the founder of fluxies, a period underwear brand dedicated to empowering people to feel confident, comfortable, and supported during their menstrual cycle. She grew up in London and developed a passion for solving everyday problems and embracing challenges head-on.
The company provides sustainable, comfortable, and reliable alternatives to traditional menstrual products. 'We focus on delivering a truly thoughtful and inclusive experience,' Paige says.
The biggest challenge the company faced was navigating the rapid growth of the market. 'We've stayed true to the core values of fluxies: creating high-quality, thoughtfully designed products that genuinely work for people of all body shapes and sizes,' Paige explains.
Paige's proudest achievement has been seeing the tangible impact the company has had on people's lives. 'Hearing from customers who feel more confident and comfortable during their periods because of our products is incredibly rewarding,' she says.
In a business where trust is as valuable as the diamonds themselves, Jak Beula's Nubian Jak Community Trust is a shining example of how to build a successful company around a shared passion. 'We do a number of activities involving publishing, exhibitions and highlighting humanity's rich cultural and diverse heritage,' Jak explains.
Jak was born in London as a son of the so-called Windrush Generation. His first love was music and he spent his early years playing in a number of bands as the lead singer and keyboard player.
The company provides a number of activities involving publishing, exhibitions and highlighting humanity's rich cultural and diverse heritage. 'We are the only UK organisation involved with work in the public realm which highlights the contributions of historical figures from an African and minority ethnic background who have made an outstanding contribution to the UK and beyond,' Jak says.
The biggest challenge the company faced was funding. 'We have overcome that by entering into partnership with different companies both from the public and private sector,' Jak explains.
Jak's proudest achievement has been researching, designing, fundraising for and installing the African and Caribbean War Memorial in the heart of Brixton. 'It was endorsed by the late Queen Elizabeth II, and has been described by the Evening Standard as the most visual symbol of diversity in Britain,' he says.
In a business where trust is as valuable as the diamonds themselves, James Gaubert's Republiqe is a shining example of how to build a successful company around a shared passion. 'We set up Republiqe as a virtual fashion house selling virtual clothing,' James explains.
James was born and bred in south of London in the UK. He is a trained fashion designer and stylist and spent most of his life working for luxury fashion brands.
The company provides a virtual fashion house selling virtual clothing. 'We wanted to create a fully sustainable Alternative to physical clothing recognising that today's Genzie consumer lives their life online,' James says.
The biggest challenge the company faced was educating consumers. 'We've been able to educate a market which has been a huge challenge,' James explains.
James' proudest achievement has been doing a virtual fashion show at Paris fashion week. 'It was a huge achievement and something that was really proud to have been part of,' he says.
Each of these entrepreneurs has found a way to merge their passions with purpose, tackling challenges with humility and persistence. From Alex Churchill’s deep dive into history education to Bruce King’s hands-on approach to helping SMEs grow, these founders exemplify the power of resilience. Paige Fashoni’s work with Fluxies proves that sustainability can be stylish, and Jak Beula’s Nubian Jak Community Trust is rewriting history, one exhibition at a time. James Gaubert’s Republiqe may be virtual, but its impact on the fashion world is anything but imaginary. As Jak Beula wisely puts it, “You can’t do it alone, and you can’t let setbacks stop you.” Their stories remind us that success isn’t just about profits—it’s about building something meaningful that outlasts the challenges and leaves a lasting impact.