An inspiring event was held at Bridges Centre, Monmouth, on Monday, 7th April, bringing together businesswomen from all corners of Monmouthshire.
The Women In Business – Taking the Leap event aimed to empower, inspire and support female entrepreneurs who are ready to launch or grow their business in Monmouthshire.
The evening was introduced by the council’s leader, Mary Ann Brocklesby, and Catherine Fookes MP, followed by inspirational talks from experienced female founders leading businesses in Monmouthshire.
Lisa Hicks, Director – SNOAP. Lisa is the brilliant mind behind SNOAP, a brand making waves with eco-friendly personal care products. Her passion for sustainability has led to innovative solutions that help reduce single-use plastic waste. Lisa’s journey includes a notable victory on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, where she secured investment from Peter Jones and Deborah Meaden. An award-winning entrepreneur, she has received the Enterprise Vision Award and the Torfaen and Monmouthshire Business Green Business of the Year Award for her exceptional contributions to sustainable business practices. Lisa’s dedication and creativity establish her as an inspiring leader in eco-friendly living.
Jessica Fletcher owns Bean & Bread, a cosy coffee shop in Abergavenny inspired by her travels in New Zealand. Since 2018, Jess has been committed to bringing Kiwi coffee culture to Wales, creating a welcoming space for the community. Her vision and dedication to quality have made Bean & Bread a beloved local destination. With a new location in Rogerstone and further expansion plans including a bakery, Jess’s story is one of passion and ambition.
The event was a collaboration with local businesswomen, who helped facilitate the event by encouraging conversation and networking amongst the guests.
Partner organisations and local businesses were available to advise guests on how to grow and develop their ideas. These included Business Wales, Business Monmouthshire, Economy Employment and Skills, CSJ Legal, Salad Skills and Big Balance Theory podcast, Intellectual Property Office and Development Bank of Wales.
Monmouthshire County Council’s Leader, Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, said: “Thank you to everyone who attended the evening. This was an inspirational event that brought women together. The event provided an opportunity for guests to gather information from our partner organisations while networking and supporting one another.
“The whole council and I look forward to seeing how the businesses grow from this event.”
MCC would like to thank everyone who donated to Cyfrannol Women’s Aid, the official charity of Cllr Su McConnel, Chair of Monmouthshire County Council for 2024-2025.
MCC encourages anyone wishing to access support for a business in Monmouthshire to contact the Business Monmouthshire team on Business Monmouthshire – Monmouthshire or email EconomicDevelopment@monmouthshire.gov.uk
