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Helen Barrett Bright Ideas Awards: Alex’s jewellery
Hi Alex! Can you tell us about yourself and your business?
My name is Alex. I’m 35 and from Hertfordshire. I'm passionate about establishing a jewellery company specialising in personalised pieces. A unique aspect of my offerings will be remembrance jewellery, including hand and footprints.
What led you to apply for a 2023 Helen Barrett Bright Ideas Award?
Transitioning from a background in sports coaching, I've encountered challenges running my current business due to its physical demands. Therefore, I applied for the grant to pivot towards establishing an online presence for my venture.
How does working for yourself help you balance work and your CF?
Self-employment is incredibly advantageous for me as it affords me the flexibility to prioritise my health needs while pursuing my professional endeavours.
What do you think the benefits of self-employment are?
The benefits of being self-employed include flexibility in scheduling, increased earning potential, and the ability to maintain a better balance between work and family life.
What might the challenges be for your business?
One of the primary challenges I face is procrastination, but I continually remind myself that completing tasks, even imperfectly, is more valuable than endlessly seeking perfection.
What are you going to use the Grant money for?
The grant funds will go towards buying a laser engraving machine, a crucial tool for enhancing the customisation and quality of my jewellery pieces.
What are your future plans for your business?
Over the next year, my goal is to establish and expand my online jewellery business, gradually transitioning away from my current self-employment to focus fully on this new venture.
What would you say to someone who is thinking of applying for an Award?
I would encourage them to seize the opportunity. Entrepreneurship often requires taking bold leaps to turn vision into reality, and pursuing awards can be a significant step towards achieving those goals.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition which causes sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system. It affects more than 11,000 people in the UK. One in 25 of us carries the faulty gene that causes it, usually without knowing.
The Helen Barrett Bright Ideas Awards are available for anyone with CF over the age of 18 to help support your dream career or hobby. Whatever you need to make your lightbulb moment a reality, a Helen Barrett Bright Ideas Award can help you on your way.