You have until 18 August to be added to the list of nominees Then voting will open for 2 weeks. Winners are selected by a combination of votes and our panel of judges and announced at our gala black tie dinner on the night
SARAH WALKER Occupation: Holistic Therapist Why have you been nominated? I'm guessing it's because of the journey I have been on the past 3 years. I lost my husband suddenly to cancer, My whole world was turned upside down. I was left with 3 beautiful children who where 14,9 and 1 at the time. Becoming a single mother was the biggest responsibility I could think of and I didn't want to let them or my husband down. I threw myself into work juggling full time work an 3 heartbroken children was hard to say the least as well as dealing with my own grief but remained positive and plodded on. I started fund raising doing charity nights for The Woodlands hospice raising over £3000. I get told I'm a inspiration but I'm just me doing what any mother would do. My hard work has paid off and on 11th June myself and my friend open our own shop Mirror Mirror beauty lounge where I will be doing holistics an Reiki to help others heal. What is your proudest achievement? Plucking up the courage to start my own business when 3 years ago my world ended I didn't think I'd ever be strong or confident enough to do this. What positive attributes do you have? I take time to help others going through hard times whether that be through holistics, being someone who is easy to talk to ,or just making them a cup of tea. I'm really laid back, non judgmental and have the patience of a saint. Helping others makes me happy and helps me heal. What do you focus on in your life? My kids. I want to make them proud of me I also want them to learn no matter what happens in life there are ways and coping mechanisms, never give up believe in themselves. When I'm under pressure I think of them to remind myself why I'm doing this why I'm where I am today is because they need me. Also my beautiful husband Paul my hero he never once complained when he was told he was dying he said " it is what it is Sarah we have just got to get on with it" that's been my life's motto he inspired me not to be scared and have courage to go on making a new life for me and my children .I also meditate, do crystal healing and self heal using Reiki.
RICHARD GAIR Occupation: Artist, designer and founder of GoGairy Hand Painted Leathers. Why do you think you have been nominated? I came through a very difficult time with my kidney and pancreas transplant and mental mental health. And staying positive when the whole world seemed to be against me. What's your proudest achievement? Getting GoGairy Hand Painted Leathers off the ground and being able to employ some incredibly talented artists who are all struggling in their own way. The fact that so much creative talent is literally going to waste is a crime. I would like to see more of these wonderful creative minds doing what they love to do and, in the process, earn a living and make the world a more beautiful place. I’ve tried to start the ball rolling in a small way and hope to be part of something bigger. How do you inspire others? It breaks my heart when I hear that kids are leaving creative courses from college and university, only to find work in a dead end low paid job. I believe this is the foundation for many creative people suffering from problems with their mental health. By our very nature, creatives are sensitive to negativity and if symptoms are noticed, action needs to be taken. I’m no expert but I have gone through this and still do. I have close friends in the creative industry that suffer greatly with depression and debilitating mental health issues.I feel so much can be done to help and support these incredible individuals. What is your great attribute? Remaining positive and being grateful to others. It’s been very difficult to be patient when you are told you have a life-threatening illness. That was the cherry on top of the illnesses, the depression and caring for my dad and dealing with his depression and his self-medication. I look after and care for my disabled uncle with learning disabilities. I try to look at the good things that could happen in the future rather than dwell on the crap that’s going on right now. It can be quite difficult. I locked myself away for over twenty years, not physically but into my own world. I was given a new hope and the chance of a new start after my life saving transplant. A special thank you to the perfect human being and his family who donated his kidney and pancreas after his death so that I could carry on. Much of this new life and venture is for him! How do you keep focused? The gratitude I have for the help and support I have received and continue to receive is like a drug. Knowing that people really do care is a beautiful feeling. After going through twenty something years of thinking nobody cared or loved me and that people even hated me for no reason, this new feeling is so empowering and gives me the drive to do the same for others and help people in pain realize that they are not alone, even when all the evidence around them supports the opposite. Difficult and sometimes nearly impossible but if you can somehow muster the strength which is in us all, you can accomplish almost anything!
KRYSTATIC Occupation: Live performing entertainer Why do you think you have been nominated? Because of the work rate l have put in over the past 10 years without no help of a manager, getting on tours supporting acts Flo Rida, Gyptian, Stylo G, Soulja Boy and Ja Rule. What is your proudest achievement to date? Supporting Ja Rule in Brazil to a sold out audience. What is your greatest attribute? It definitely got to be working with DJ Unknown from Artist Auditions USA, He has helped my career so much by getting me on tours, working with the right people ect. How have you inspired others? By the lyrics l express when l'm in the studio, the live events l've made happen with out the help of a music manager. People have known me as a go getter but this just gives more people something to be even more inspired about. What do you do to keep focused? What keeps me focused is definitely praying to God. Believing in the end product if I do not quit and always see the bigger picture, someone out there is having a much tougher battle than myself so it keeps me focused but at the same time gratful for what I have.
STEPHEN BYGRAVE Occupation: Managing Director of Stedy Chefs Recruitment but I am also a tutor for the cookery courses which are aimed at adults with learning disabilities Why have you been nominated? Our courses help students to gain new skills, confidence and also provide a social aspect in terms of making new friends who have the same interest. What is your proudest achievement? It will always be our Learning Centre. This is because seeing the hard work and dedication from our students really does give a sense of achievement. When our students show this, they get excited and want to showcase their skills, being able to help our students feel this way is a really big achievement for all at StedyChefs Learning Centre and we love to watch their confidence grow. What is your greatest attribute? My dedication and commitment. This can be shown by how far our Learning Centre has grown in the past 12 months - each step giving more opportunities and experiences for all involved. How have you inspired others? I believe that I have inspired others as our students regularly get rewarded with day trips. There has been a few occasions when we have had amazingly positive feedback about our students, how professional yet happy they are. A lot of the parents and carers have also told us about the difference in students while they're at home, now helping out with bigger jobs and tougher tasks than they initially would have. How do you remain focused? .When under pressure, I try to remind myself of why I am doing the task. I like to keep my main goal in mind. This is usually my goal to help our students in the Learning Centre. For example, if I am having a bad day, when we get the students - seeing their enthusiasm and great attitude to come into StedyChefs Learning Centre helps me remember that I should have enthusiasm and a great attitude in all I do.
MARK SEPHTON Occupation: International mentor to entrepreneurs, an acclaimed radio show host, and a top selling author. What is your proudest achievement? My 2014 debut book " Inside Job " was met with immediate praise in business communities across the globe resulting in the release of my second and most recent book " Plot Twist " What do you focus on ? My love for entrepreneurship is demonstrated by my TV show " One More Round " on the Direct Sales TV Network via Apple TV. When not on the big screen, I am a regular contributor to Entrepreneur Magazine and a speaker for corporate events, entrepreneurship summits, and major conferences worldwide. My expertise in personal and professional development has postitioned me as an expert in the industry, resulting in transformational experiences for audiences , clients, and businesses alike. Drawing from personal experience, I have taken the essence of what I have experienced and formed a business which helps draw out the magnificent potential that every person beholds.
HILDA YARKER Occupation: Managing Director at H2A Partnership Ltd Why have you been nominated? I feel quite humbled if I am honest, I do try to be the best person I can be every day, even when facing challenges. Poor parenting role models, little opportunities, low self-worth as a young women, recovery from a 5 year mental breakdown to go on and become a qualified holistic therapist, go to university as a mature student (40) and get a BSc (Hons) in Public Health, study a MSc in Clinical Psychotherapy, become a Chief Executive in the Voluntary Sector and undertake a piece of advocacy work in Styal Prison representing women’s rights to safe, quality healthcare whilst incarcerated, become a Director in the NHS with a national profile and finally start my own business as MD. I am now studying at the ICA to become a Master in Coaching. What is your proudest achievement? Apart from the birth of my two gorgeous children Amy and Jack, being instrumental in enabling and facilitating the journey of three amazing women from the Wirral, who over an 18 month period went on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth which culminated in them having an opportunity to present to members of the House of Lords to secure £5m worth of funding for a national parenting charity Parentline Plus. What is your greatest attribute ? My ability to remain tenacious and focused when challenging the structures in society (public services) who put self-interest above the interest of those who they are employed to serve. Your desire to advocate on behalf of those who find it difficult to advocate for themselves, your non-judgmental attitude, your passion for equality and equity for all, and your absolute desire to maintain your integrity at all times and always be seen to do the ‘right thing’. How have you inspired others? By treating people with respect, being open and transparent in all matters, wearing my heart on my sleeve, by sharing my vulnerabilities when I am often viewed as some sort of wonder woman (which I can assure you I am not). But more than any of that, I often speak about ‘challenge through adversity’ and being a ‘phoenix who rises from the flames’ and how with the right support (non-judgmental) and the right conditions, we all have the potential to be what we want to be. I have a real issue with the term ‘empowerment’, when I worked in the NHS and Voluntary Sector. I do not believe any one person has the ability or right to say they empower others, empowerment comes from within, as public servants or humanists our role is to create the right conditions for individuals to choose to empower themselves, you cannot force empowerment on an individual or a community, work with them to recognise for themselves the assets they already have, do not approach from a deficit perspective, i.e. ‘what you need is this’, start with how can we support you to build from what you have. How do you keep focused? I spend time with my children who constantly keep me grounded and thankful of life everyday Walk my dogs, mindfulness, eating healthy food . I keep my wardrobe clear of toxic people who add no value to my health and wellbeing
JULIE LAWSON Occupation: Civil Servant Why have you been nominated? For my fundraising, I have been doing it for 13 years, I love it What is your proudest achievement? Being invited to Buckingham Palace Garden Party in 2016 for my fundraising
What is your greatest attribute? Determination and being focused. I love seeing people happy and enjoying life. I am a never say never type of person. How do you think you have inspired others? Probably by the amount of money I have raised and putting on good fundraising events that people want to come back to. What do you to keep focused? My belief in us one day finding a cure for Alzheimers and that the money I raise makes a difference that will benefit my children
JACKIE JONES Occupation: Artist (face painter, balloon twister, sfx make up artist) Why do you think you have been nominated? I left a toxic relationship, quit my office job of 17 years and spent my life savings on a sfx make up course. The fear of staying put was greater than the fear of the unknown. Started my own successful buisness bringing joy and smiles to people through my creativity. Let go let God. What is your greatest attribute? Believing in myself. It's never too late to turn your life around. To change your life you just have to change your mind. We all have our own unique gift to share with the world. What's your proudest achievement? Having a director of a film sending me a friend request on Facebook then go on to message me about working on a film that is due on the big screen this year. How do you inspire people? .I am a lightworker. Shine like a star. People are drawn to you especially children who pick up on this. I inspire others by leading by example. I breathe Inner peace. I live in the moment and follow the Law of Attraction and become an observer of my thoughts
GABBY FABRIZIO Occupation: Recent Uni graduate with a degree in music business and lifestyle blogger Why have you been nominated? I’d say it’s for my ability to listen, always help people and most of all, my desire to use my platform to create awareness for important topics such as mental health. I know first hand what it’s like to feel so alone, so I pride myself in making sure that if I see someone tweeting and they seem unusual or upset to message them - a simple message can mean a lot to a person in a time when they need support. What is your proudest achievement? Graduating from university.I have faced so many battles to get to this day, struggling with extremely bad panic attacks and anxiety, to being months behind on university work. And I really hope that people look at my story, and see that if I can do it, then they can do it too. If I inspire one person who is in the same position I was, then that is all worth sharing my story. How have you inspired others? I am open and honest on social media about my life and struggles. We can sometimes feel the pressure to paint this front that everything is sunshine and lollipops - when it’s really not! I think my brutal honesty has really inspired others, my tweets aren’t constantly happiness, sometimes my tweets reflect the anxious mood I am feeling, or the mood swing I’m experiencing - I’m relatable, and I think that in itself is inspiring. How do you keep focused? I always remember where I started and where I am now! Sometimes you can question your capabilities when you’re under pressure, but by taking a moment to step away from the situation and look back on how far you’ve come that helps me focus myself again
LOUISE DOYLE Occupation: Holistic Therapist and I also have my own range of crystal infused products such as natural soy wax candles, soaps, lotions and potions. Why have you been nominated? For being my open self on social media and sharing my struggles and how I have overcome them. I believe in the power of positivity and waking up every day with a positive mental attitude is imperative to leading my life in a happy fulfilled way. What is your proudest achievement Becoming a mum. My daughter is only 3 years old and teaches me something new every day. I have changed my life in a matter of 12 months and she was my driving force behind it.I want to share with the world self love is not just something you do its a way of life and we are all capable of being truly happy with ourselves. What is your greatest attribute? I actually give a f**k about people. I listen to peoples issues and try to help them in any way I can. I have a huge heart and want to help as many people as I can in whatever way they need me too. How have you inspired people? I like to think I have inspired others by being my raw, honest self. I like to lift people up and share positive quotes and posts on social media because you never know when someone just needs to hear the words I AM HERE FOR YOU or YOU CAN DO AND ACHEIVE ANYTHING. How do you keep focused under pressure? It comes naturally to me know since I gained the tools to self heal. With meditation, reiki, crystal therapy and EFT I believe I can get through anything life throws at me now and I have so much gratitude to know what I know now. Happiness comes from within and that's what I want to help the world understand. Self love and self development can change your life, that I know for sure because I am living proof.
SOULED IN LOVE (JOANNA THOMPSON) Occupation:Mindset Coaches Why have you been nominated? Feedback suggests the strategies we share have empower others to make changes to their lives. What is your proudest achievement Having group members rengaging in work and recognising their power to change their thoughts on their lives. What it your greatest attribute? We are relatable and dont profess to be gurus How have you inspired others? How do you keep focused? By living the ideas and strategies we share
Using own ideas to improve mood and living more mindfully.
CHELSEY LEE Occupation: Co founder of Moth Physical Theatre/Performer Why have you been nominated? We pride ourselves in creating visually stimulating theatre using physical storytelling, movement, puppetry, music and light. We believe Drama is an incredibly important part of the school curriculum that can give children and young adults tools such as teamwork, focus, confidence, participation and creativity. Our aim is to bridge the gap between education and the industry. We understand how difficult it can be to find work, therefore our mission is to teach, inspire and guide others is how to create their own. We believe in our community. What is your proudest achievement? So far, Wild Wilma has won the East 15 Graduate Companies Award, Tangled Feet Mentorship Programme and was a finalist in the 2018 LET Awards. However, our biggest achievement tends to be the little things such as receiving a drawing from a child that has attended our show or seeing videos of young adults using our Physical Theatre technique that we've taught them in a workshop. We are also performing at the Crossrail Place Roof Garden in Canary Wharf, 8th September. What is your greatest attribute? We are not only company members, but we're friends too. We all trained at East15 Acting School in Physical Theatre and have created a platform for us and others to work in the industry. We are a female led company and are certain that we can conquer any task give How have you inspired others? With our show, Wild Wilma, we cater to all of the children out there who don't 'fit in' and are criticised for their individuality. Wild Wilma teaches children that it is okay to be different and to stay true to who you are. We have been told many times how difficult it is in this industry to find work/become successful, our aim is to teach others that you CAN find work and you CAN become successful, if you put your mind to it! We want to pass on to the younger generation that anything is achievable. How do you keep focused? We have regular meetings each week to check in with each other and see how we are all coping with given tasks. We practice mindfulness during rehearsals and most importantly listen to each others thoughts/opinions. A little walk in the park helps too!
CLARISSA STRICKLAND Occupation: Founder of Motivated Unicorn, holistic life coach and registered nurse. Why have you been nominated? I have come back from from major depressive disorder and a suicide attempt. I have used this to understand myself and my soul purpose better and to help other people. My tagline for my company is Unleash your Inner Magic. I show people ways to do this is a positive way every day on social media and within my business. I help people connect to their higher self and experience their world through love, joy and positivity. What is your proudest achievement? Changing my mindset from wholly negative to positive, and vastly improving my self esteem so I can help others do the same. Living a life I'm in live with. How do you inspire people? I think my story inspires others. I show people how to use their own story in a positive way. To treat all the bad things as points of learning and inspire them to help others in the same way if they can. I speak from the heart in a real way that makes people feel comfortable with their own experiences and not feel alienated by their feelings and thoughts. I show people how connected to their true self will ultimately be the best thing they can do. How do you stay focused? I meditate daily. I also do self healing with reiki almost daily. It also helps to journal and use my diary to stay on track
SINEAD MURRAY Occupation: Holistic therapist Why have you been nominated? I have shared my struggles honestly through both the good times and the bad therefore people can relate to my journey. My family are proud of my resilience and ability to overcome even the darkest times and still be there to help others. I try to help people to see that no matter what life throws at us, with a positive mindset we can achieve our dreams. What is your proudest achievement? Starting my business and through my journey of self healing having the ability to do what the consultants said wasn't possible in falling pregnant. In January this year I found out that I had become pregnant, unfortunately it developed into an ectopic pregnancy. It was a very dark and testing time for me but I found comfort and strength in the fact that I had overcome what they said wasn't possible. What is your greatest attribute? My resiliency, whatever is thrown at me I use it as a life lesson to enable me to feel what others can feel and make me a stronger person. How have you inspired others? I have encouraged others to share their pain and accept it and grow as a result. I think I have helped people to chase their own dreams and believe anything is possible. How do you keep focused? I am a great believer in crystal healing and Reiki, whenever I feel pressured I use these techniques to ground myself and to give clarity to situations, since starting the holistic therapy I feel i have more balance in my life and have truly found my purpose.
CRAIG PHILLIPS Occupation: Builder Why have you been nominated? I guess because I always try to see the bright side of life and always remember there are many worse off than me. I always want to help others that are worse off than myself. What is your proudest achievement? I’ve been lucky enough to do lots of amazing things but I guess It would have to be getting a great Scott’s honouree award for changing the law in parliament shortly after winning Big Brother to allow Down syndrome to be treated on the NHS. The Down syndrome society had fought for over 14 years! What is your greatest attribute? My handsome good looks of course. Ha! I’d say I’m pretty determined and when I’ve got my sights set on something I’ll go for it until it’s achieved. How have you inspired others? I’d like to think people have seen my success and have been inspired to pick up the tools and learn a trade. How do you keep focused? Remember the end goal! Nothing worth achieving in life is ever easy! The more you put in the more you get out.
ANN RICH Occupation: Retired Why have you been nominated? For my charity work I do in the slums of Uganda on my own... I started the Mother Ann Foundation 11 years ago where I have opened the Mother Ann Nursery School The Mother Ann Home for abandoned children.And helped hundred of people in the Slums of Uganda , also helping an orphanage in the mountains What is your proudest achievement There've been quite a few from opening a nursery school in Africa which has been named after me ( Mother Ann) and To this day I have saved 4 children’s life’s But have helped hundreds of children and their families who are starving. Hope: a new born baby Girl abondoned and left by the rubbish tip in the slums of Uganda. I rescued her, fed her clothed her got her medical treatment and eventually found her a new home. Angel My beautiful baby girl whose needs are great. She was abondoned by her Mother and her Father was unable to look after her. She was 13 months old when she came to me. Very malnourished arms and legs like matchsticks weighing only. 12lb that of a few month old child. Angel was diagnosed with Aids. I have got her medical treatment. Clothing. Food. Etc. And now I have found a lovely family in Uganda who love and care for her but she stays with me when I go to Uganda. Shanitah A seven year old street child she was abandoned by her family . I have taken her under my wings she lives in my room where I live in the slums of Africa and she has neighbours who look after her. When I return I look after her. She had no clothes and Begged for food. Never had a bed. Now she is our little princess she has a bed. Dresses, shoes for the first time in her little life. What is your greatest attribute? My loving and caring nature, my selfless ways, my complete compassion for others and believing in myself that dreams can come true. How have you inspired others? To be honest I’m just an older lady doing what inspires me, i am just a lady who helps the poor and needy, I am just one of the spokes in the great wheel of life. How do you keep focused? If I can save just one child’s life or just help one person then I will die a very happy lady. The pressure in the poorest places the slums of Uganda are words I can not describe to you. Finding a baby that has been abandoned a few hours old on a rubbish dump , you can never put into words. But to stay calm is the secret although this is easier said than done but believing what you are trying to achieve is true is helpful I break down the problems into small pieces and try to stay level headed and calm I do my best not to drain my energy on the bad. In certain situations if I have time I will meditate helping to calm my body and mind. Sleeping on the problems helps too, waking up to fresh new thoughts can help me solve the situations or problems that have arisen But my passion is helping people so maybe this is the reason I stay calm in such pressured situations.
SHEILA BYRNE Occupation: Newly qualified Teacher - CoFounder of Hope Street, an organisation devoted to educating & breaking down barriers associated with mental health - CoFounder of start up UR Clothing.Why have you been nominated? After a difficult start in life, I left school with no qualifications.I became pregnant at aged 18 and married at 20. I remained at home to look after my children and began to study, I worked in several educational establishments over the years, but in 2014, I was subjected to workplace bullying and eventually had a nervous breakdown in January 2016. It left me with severe anxiety, depression, OCD and PTSD. I was unable to wash and clean myself. I refused to let it win and 12 months later my sheer determination drove me to return to my PGCE, still with 18 months to complete. During the last 18 months, I have completed a Masters Course in Personal Development through the International Coaching Academy. I have created Hope Street, an organisation dedicated to: educating others on how to manage their mental health more effectively and providing support, validation and hope for others who suffer from poor mental health. What is your proudest achievement? Achieving an Outstanding grade in my PGCE, whilst battling with mental illness. What is your greatest attribute? Dedication and determination How have you inspired others? I have been at the point of wanting to end my life and come full circle to achieve my PGCE and help others before they get to the point I did. How do you keep focused under pressure? Take time out with family and friends, tell myself how strong I am and how far I’ve travelled
MIGUEL DOFORO Occupation:Managing and Creative Director of MD Productions Why do you think you have been nominated? For the work I do within the community through MD CIC and our Blank Canvas Project What is your proudest achievement? After 12 years of trying, getting our community project running from 2014 - MD CIC What is your greatest attribute? I always see the good qualities in people and turn any situation into a positive How have you inspired others? By taking risks and showing that anything is possible, not giving up on dreams when times have become difficult How do you keep focused? Train at the gym, eat well, surround myself with good people, do positive affirmations and meditation
ELLEN MORRIS Occupation: Owner at Kirkby Holistic and Wellbeing Centre.Why have you been nominated? People can see that I am a genuine and caring person, with a positive attitude, and that my biggest aim is to help others, without holding judgement. The fact I can share life experiences with them, openly and honestly without withholding my own personal struggles allows them to see that anything is possible. What is your proudest achievement. I overcame being supressed in an abusive relationship resulting in me being divorced, chronically ill and homeless with 2 young children one of whom has complex additional needs. After many months of battling with depression, I made a decision that I had to take back control and fix myself, to be able to look after my children. I first learnt how to heal myself using various holistic therapies and a lot of positive thinking. The change in me was immeasurable and I knew I had to reach out to other people in similar circumstances to myself. I decided to use my experience to help others, I left my full time job in order to pursue this dream, and began training in a range of holistic therapies,. What is your greatest attribute? I am empathic and truly caring about people, this allows me to connect and build strong relationships with others. I can then guide and support them on their own healing journey and watch them too change and go on live a happier more fulfilled lives. This also allows me to make lifelong friends rather than just a list of clients. How do you inspire people? Having a positive attitude and the determination to succeed in my dreams, despite being faced with challenges at every turn, and creating a support network where everybody matters, not just for myself but for the community I love, means that people are inspired to join with me to help lift others up. How do you stay focused? I remember why I am here and why I am doing the work I do, we all face challenges in life, the key is how we deal with those challenges. I use a wide range of holistic therapies to keep myself well both physically and emotionally.Knowing that each day I will help others keeps me motivated to continue to push through with a positive outlook no matter how tough times are.
PAUL WALMSLEY Occupation Youth and family coach, author. Why have you been nominated? For the work I do in the Liverpool area with young people and for the positive nature I have turned my life around What is your proudest achievement? Knowing that my children no longer think I’m Daddy dickhead, they actually respect me totally as I do them. ( it’s not always been the case ). What is your greatest attribute? I can turn the worst moment into a positive experience through story telling and relate it to the situation. How have you inspired people? I think I have inspired others to realise that anything is possible in life. How do you stay focused? I realise how far on my journey I have travelled. This also makes me realise that it’s a never ending story as I have a legacy to pass onto the next generation and beyond.
MELISSA STRICKLAND Occupation Holistic Therapist and owner of Helping Hands Holistics Why have you been nominated? I think probably because I have worked in the last 3 years to build a business that really helps people. I am an approachable person and have an empathy for what ails people. Being a holistic therapist is quite an intimate profession and my clients trust me enough to open up to me during treatments enabling me to treat their body mind and spirit holistically. Many people say I help them more than with just their physical ailments. What is your proudest achievement? The absolute proudest moment of my life was reaching Machu pichu after a 3 day hike along the Inca trail. It was something I wanted to do since the age of 6 and I managed to achieve it at the age of 35. My life long ambition and my group arrived a day ahead of schedule. What is your greatest attribute? I listen - to advice, to stories and nostalgia, to problems, to the man and woman in street. How have you inspired others? I’m not too sure if inspire others or not but if I do it would be through listening and offering good advice. I have had a lot of life experience and people come to me asking what I would do in their situation. How do you keep focused? I’m a meditator. I meditate every day, without it I would be lost
DANIELLE LUNDSTROM Occupation: Hairdresser, spiritual healer, life coach and mummy to a beautiful 5 year old autistic angel Why have you been nominated? I am a genuine kind caring person with a heart of pure gold and a natural understand for others, I give out good positive energy on consistent level and I feel people just no that I genuinely mean well and come from a place of love, What is your proudest moment? Becoming a mum then publishing my own book all about my spiritual soul searching journey, I wrote the book after talking to a diary every day from age 11, I am proud of believing in my self and pushing threw till I got it exactly how I wanted it What is your greatest attribute? I have a gift to listen and give love with out expecting nothing in return only respect, i believe I can heal every walk of life or at least do my best to help them feel better about them selfs and in to inligament with who they really are and we’re they want to be How do you inspire others? By being my true self and authentically embracing all my imperfections and not wanting to be anyone but ME, I love who I am and teach others to love who they r to, self love heals everything How do you keep focused? I just don’t put to much pressure on my self and choose to do what serves me in that moment cause everything gets done in the end with patients and consistency, you just have to trust that it will all fall in to place no matter how long it takes
SAMANTHA FOLEY Occupation: Angel Ambassador/ Life Coach/ Yoga Teacher/ Holistic Therapist Why have your been nominated? Inspiration travels far and wide. Those I have inspired , inspire me. What an absolute honour to even have been considered and a massive thankyou from the bottom of my heart because I am truly grateful for this. What is your proudest achievement to date? Teaching Yoga to a group of vulnerable homeless adults.. I witnessed their transformation and they learnt to breathe again put new life and hope back in their fragile bodies , weak from so much trauma and disappointment. I witnessed them blossom and observed them building and getting stronger. By the end of the 6 week course bonded together , a sense of nurture and support to begin life again with a fresh breathe and restoration of their soul. What is your greatest attribute? Unconditional love. How do you think you have inspired others? Im deaf, dyslexic and a domestic violence survivor. I have seen miracles at work and I am a walking miracle to be here today. I offer unconditional love in everything I do. My daughter is called Angel because she is my greatest miracle and my focus to be the best I can in this world today she says I inspire her and she inspires me. Together we inspire the world. How do you keep you focused ?
Being present in the here and now by breathing and grounding -putting your feet on the grass is useful.
Acknowledging your fears but knowing they are FEAR- False Evidence Appearing Real and its not the only option.
Talking to friends and family -having a sounding board to reason your fears.
And some reflective time a walk on the beach or a park on your own , followed by yoga to not think of anything but stretch and breathe making new fresh blood/cells in the body and helping to expel old negative energy.
CLAIRE KENDRICK Occupation: Bridal hair specialist /Hairdresser/ Entrepreneur Why have you been nominated? Due to the sheer determination I have to try and help people to feel good about themselves. What is your proudest achievement? My children , and having been a single parent it’s been so rewarding and holding the biggest charity event I’ve ever done in the titanic Liverpool for charity’s Mind and Refuge . Also becoming and ambassador for a women’s empowerment support group . What is your greatest attribute? I respect and value people inspire others by sharing myself and encourage others to do the same . How have you inspired others? Through just being myself being raw and real and sharing my life experiences through social media . And also raising awareness for mental health which is very close to my heart . I became an ambassador for a women’s empowerment group and surrounded my self with women who had been in similar situation I quickly realised that my story inspired others , so I choose to give people positivity, empathy and never give up on anyone . I wouldn’t be where I am today without the love support of my family , my friends , the GirlLYF group and the network of followers I have on line . I’m totally blessed for all in my life and I am always full of gratitude . How do you stay focused? It is so important to take time out for yourself love your self first , go for a walk , listen to music , read positive quotes . And be grateful for all in life .
IRENE REMELIE Occupation:Life and Business coach and bio energy practitioner Why have you been nominated? I believe I have been nominated because from rock bottom I turned my life around and created a life I once dreamed of and now I help others do the same What is your proudest achievement? There are so many things I am proud of but most recently having my book “ Time to wake up” become a number 1 best seller on Amazon has been great. What is your great attribute? Facing everything with Love How have you inspired others? From my own experiences of being able to achieve extra ordinary things whilst being a ordinary person. People can relate and see that they too, can achieve what they want from life How do you keep focused? When I am under pressure I use meditation and breathing techniques . I also hand my concerns over to the universe and have complete trust and faith that “ all is happening perfectly”
DEBBIE ANNE TURNBALL Occupation: Founder and Managing Director of River And Sea Sense Ltd Drowning Prevention Educator and Campaigner Why have you been nominated? My son drowned 12 years ago and I have this year reached a milestone of educating 250,000 young people in North Wales and across the UK in water safety What is your proudest achievement? Last year winning the National Lottery Special Achievement Award Presented By Bear Grylls and Ore Ouduba What is your greatest attribute? Tenacity How have you inspired others? When my son drowned I did not want to be here. After 2 attempts to commit suicide I survived - I set up RASS - educated myself in Drowning Prevention - Did many personal Development Courses including becoming an NLP Master - Support 23 families who have lost children to Drowning and other reasons for loss - Am setting up a new project as a signposting website and app with additional workshops to support women who have been through Trauma and loss - I AM STILL HERE AND LOVING LIFE !! How do you keep focused under pressure? I meditate - Read inspirational Books - Go out in Nature - I set measurable achievable goals - And breathe ...... How do you stay focused? Winning this award even though I have won others would again raise awareness re Saving Lives by Educating others about Water Safety. That’s the real reason I’d like to win. My Life is about saving others Lives.
DANIELLE MAZOURET Occupation: Hairstylist and I run a health and vegan business Why have you been nominated? Because I work hard and always stay positive. I try to help other people and promote for others as much as I can What is your proudest achievement? Working for charities such as Gift of a Wedding and Mind What is your greatest attribute? My strong work ethic and having empathy for others. My greatest pleasure in life is making others lives better no matter how big or small a difference How have you inspired others? Never giving up or letting things gets me down no matter what is thrown at me.Everyone has problems, it's our reaction to them that makes or breaks us How do you keep focused? I look at my vision board and remember why for starting it in the first place
ANTHONY GRICE Occupation: MD, Fika Coffee shops, Mersey Boxing Promotions, 08 Travel Direct, Ultimate Liverpool Tours. Why have you been nominated? For my charity boxing events I run alongside my businesses! What is your proudest achievement? My Charity boxing promotion. I have helped raise thousands of pounds for many charities in the city, especially Alder Hey. I do this because am a believer in good Karma! You do good for others and good will repay you. Bringing people through the gym who have never boxed before and will never do so again. I have run these events for 5 years now and for a number of different charities and try to give self belief to participants and the confidence to step into the ring. How do you inspire people? By being positive about life! It is hard running my businesses, yet doing my fundraising events and being a husband with two children. I always make time for my family and taking regular trips abroad! Work hard, play hard, create memories and enjoy life to its full! Its too short for being negative! If its written then so be it! If I love making somebody smile, laugh or be happy! This gives me the biggest kick of all! Thats what life is all about! How do you keep focused? By believing in the people around me!I have worked in many pressure cooker jobs throughout my younger years, I thrive on high pressure situations.
ANDREW JOSEPH MANION Occupation: Hairstylist and Makeup Artist Why have you been nominated? I am a big believer in a positive attitude and positivity equals positivity, I had a very traumatic time in school and managed to get through what was the worst part of my life. After this period The law of attraction has been my guiding force for about 8 years now and since adopting this attitude, I believe is when my success started. I still obviously have my moments of doubt and feeling down but I never let this last more than an hr or two as I do not want it to spiral. Maybe it is for this reason that has rubbed off on people. I am a glass is always half to 3/4 full. What is your proudest achievement? Heading my team at Milan fashion week and completing my degree. What is your greatest attribute? I think is I am genuine and what you see is what you get and my ambition. How do you inspire others? I think it is my drive and ambition and my want to better myself, three of my clients have gone back to school/university since I done mine and they have all messaged to say I inspired them. This was one of the nicest things ever said to me. How do you stay focused? My friends say I put myself under more pressure haha, I do like to have relaxation time as I think it is important for your body and mind. Sleep is most important and somehow I manage to switch off in bed and read and sleep. Its when I wake back up that my mind races again.
PAUL O'HARE Occupation: DESIGNER - Interior & Architecture Why Have You Been Nominated? I am humbled to be nominated for a positive award, people around me on a day to day basis say, “how do you do it?” stay happy every day no matter what life throughs at you. And in business that’s not easy…maybe it’s because I do such a rewarding job and love it OR maybe the reason that I am so positive is that am grateful for everyday am healthy… I spent a lot of time in hospital as a child after suffering paralysis at the age of 12. I remember lying in bed thinking would I every walk again? I did but it took a lot of time in hospital and the dedication of the doctors to teach me to walk again. I made slow progress and after 3 years I was discharged but with no full diagnosis Why I was paralysed in the first place. Or if it would happen to me gain. Terrifying. What is your Proudest Achievement? My Family … My wife Lisa who supports me in everything I do and keeps my grounded when making important decisions and Grace my 11-year-old Daughter who is the most engaging person I have ever met. What is your greatest Attribute? I never give up. How do you inspire others? Honesty and integrity …If your true to yourself then its easy to be true to others and I think people see that. How Do You Stay Focused? I think the answer to that… is routine Have a structure and stick to it. Every day is different and brings up several unexpected things but if you have a structure then you can work it out. I try to learn something new from every situation and pass on my experiences to people around me … but most of all be thankful, you never no what life is going to throw at you.
ALFIE BEST Occupation: Mobile Home PARK Operator Why have you been nominated? Being a gypsy, from an extremely poor background, I believe that people can see that it gives hope and that anybody can achieve their goals if they persevere. If someone like me can achieve their dreams it is evidently obvious that anyone can. What is your proudest achievement? There are two proud achievements. Officially becoming Europe's largest mobile home park operator in history and setting up our Wyldecrest Parks Charity allowing us to raise money to help seriously ill children and hopefully saving lives as a result of our endeavours. What is your greatest attribute? Knowing that dignity is never taught but comes from within. In defeat and loss hold your head high and in victory be humble and gracious. How have you inspired others? I am extremely approachable and I sometimes feel that I am looking through the window at somebody else at the way my life has taken shape. I believe that people who know me understand that I don't hide the fact that I am a gypsy or where I have come from. It has given people the strgenth and commitment to focus on their own goals and help push them forward. How do you keep focused? Whatever challenges I am dealt, I always break them down into small pieces and tackle them one step at a time. Knowing where I have come from reminds me that I never want to go back to that. It keeps me committed and focused on my journey.
KATE NORMAN Occupation: Beauty & holistic practitioner Why have you been nominated? Because of my passion & drive for awareness in mental health. I focus this in the holistic aspect of the Goddess emporium. Having lost a close family member to suicide the holistic element to my business is about promoting relaxation, wellbeing and using crystal healing & Reiki to help with the recovery of anxiety and depression. What is your proudest achievement? So far it is watching clients that walked through my door years ago in the depths of despair and are now flourishing. I couldn’t help Our rob so this is a form of therapy for myself. I am driven and passionate in helping people and bringing light and postivity into their lives. I have managed to help some truly desperate people; some who have experienced the horrors life has to offer and made them question themselves and their existence. Knowing I have assisted in their recovery is by far the greatest achievement and reward. What is your greatest attribute? I’m a very patient - I think anyone who comes into this business needs to listen to clients and be able to communicate appropriately but you also need endless patience.Treating people with deep-seated problems cannot be ‘fixed’ in a single session. You have to know what the end result will be and stay focussed. How have you inspired others? I have promoted the benefits of not only reiki as a means of healing but also the benefits of crystal healing. I incorporate both of these into my holistic & beauty treatments. How do you keep focused? I practice what I preach and use Reiki, yoga and crystal healing to promote my own wellbeing. It’s my passion. I’m a firm believer in Karma & live my life knowing it’s important to give back.
ENERGY FAIRIES LTD ( (Rechelle Davis, Nadine Griffin & Rhianne Griffin) Occupation: We make energy saving, thermal plantation shutters, the product itself is called Flutter Shutter, which aims to help with fuel poverty, reduce carbon emissions, save money, save energy and assist with the regeneration of our poorer communities. In addition we have a spiritual/holistic online shop called Ascended Soul..from here we sell products that raise a persons energy and help them gain clarity Why have you been nonimated?It's always been our mission to help others whether it be helping people save money on their bills or being there for people in their time of need. What is your proudest achievement? We won the Echo Environmental Awards for carrying out 1000s of Energy assessments up and down the UK. We did this to make sure that people could have new boilers and loft insulation under the Government scheme Green Deal. It was such an achievement for us because we did it with just the 3 of us...we had hard hats, tool belts, and carried out every assessment personally before the second half of the job which was inputting all of the data to produce the Energy Performance Certificate. At times it was really hard as it was cold, wet & snowed alot. In Wales and one time we almost got stuck on a mountain! But it was so worth it because we saw the benefit that our efforts had on others. What is your greatest attribute? :It's got to be compassion. We have so much compassion for people and we work hard to help as many as we can. We love life and believe everyone should have the same treatment. How have you inspired others? We come from a very humble background and growing up we saw how difficult it was for our parents to make ends meet. We've had an upbringing full of love and happiness and our parents are amazing...they're our inspiration. We've worked non stop to make sure that we set an example to everyone out there who feels like they can't achieve anything, or feels like they're not worthy of great things, because they are! And we're always promoting that to every single person we meet. How do you keep focused? Anytime we're feeling the strain we always re-group..come together, talk, meditate and manifest. We share our concerns and find a way through the situation that suits each one of us. Remaining calm and being grounded and calm throughout is the only way to get through something with minimal amount of stress.
CLAIRE RENTON Occupation: Carer and. clothing boutique owner Why have you been nominated? I would say its becuase Ive been a carer to somebody close to me for over 12 years which cut me off from the world really, 3 years ago I entered a beauty pageant and won miss charity this then made me realise I could do more with my life and still be a carer. I have raised thousands for various charities as well. Over the past year I have opened my own clothing boutique and recently qualified as a life coach What is your proudest achievement? Helping various charities and winning Miss charity for my fundraising and opening my own clothing store What is your greatest attribute? I would say its because I always try and stay positive no matter what is happening in life and try to encourage others to do the same How have you inspired others? I think I have shown people that you can achieve things you want in life if you stay focused How do you keep focused? I keep focused by meditating and clearing my mind
MARISSA ROONEY Occupation: bridal designer and creative director Why have you been nominated? I give all my brides a lesson in self love when they visit me and I send each one of them out the door with a smile feeling positive regardless of if they buy a gown from me or if they don't (so far I've managed to persuade 2 women to not go through with surgery so I feel I am doing a good job). Or it may be because of the volunteering work I do in my local community (with willow brook hospice and prescot town council) My boutique specialises in edgy dresses for girls with curves, and comes with a body positive vibe. I saw so many brides struggling into standard sizes and feeling out of place shopping for a dress and it was really upsetting for them and me. Some brides have next to no choice and sometimes have to buy a gown without being able to try it on first and hope it looks perfect. I offer gorgeous bridal collections for girls with curves and customisation options they can’t get anywhere else. I want curvy girls to choose their dream dress and not have to make do because they think it’s not possible. I’ve been a body positive advocate for many years and actively promote my life size not plus size campaign which is backed by the queen of fashion Caryn Franklin MBE (professor of diversity and also known for her work presenting the clothes show). I’m also a fashion blogger for curvy girls and share my extensive knowledge as a designer to help and guide the curvy girls of the nation on what will work for their body shape (known to my clients as the master of dressing curves). Getting to this point in my life hasn’t been easy, 18 months ago I nearly died following complications after loosing 8 stone through gastric surgery trying to conform to an unrealistic ideal of perfection that doesn’t exist. Even at a size 8 I wasn’t happy with my body, but after opening the doors to my boutique, gaining 3 1/2 stone and mixing in the curvy community I’ve never felt more fabulous and I’m dedicating my life’s work to ensure every curvy woman I meet will see she too is beautiful and her size or weight does not define her. I’m also proud to announce this year I am a finalist in the Miss British Beauty Curve 2018 competition and I will be representing our county as Ms Merseyside curve. What is your greatest attribute?: Integrity I will always be honest with my clients and this is shown in the reviews my clients have left on Facebook How have you inspired others? :By sharing my journey I think a lot of women can relate to body dysmorphia- I make it my job to help them see how beautiful they really are and show them once they acknowledge their own beauty life really does change for the better How do you keep focused under pressure? Simply by reminding myself, I do what I do because I truly care how women feel about themselves and wanting to make a difference to the lives of the people I meet. I want to be an influencer and an educator for body positivity amongst women and men.
JENNA UNWIN Occupation: Owner of Dermaplane UK Aesthetics Why have you been nominated? For creating opportunities and support to small/;are businesses within the beauty/aesthetic sector. Some businesses have been on the verge of dissolving but with our support and innovative training they are now thriving and expanding What is your proudest achievement to date? Aside from my beautiful children and husband, my business is my passion. I started with a mobile beauty business and now run 12 ofmy own training centres across the UK and Ireland plus training worldwide. Not only do we deliver the training, we help and support everyone and install confidence within their skills WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT TO DATE What is your greatest attribute? DRIVE •PERSISTENCE •INNOVATIVE •HONEST ETHICS How have you inspired others? By working hard and starting out without a single penny from anyone. No loans or credit didn't stop me. I always had a dream to work for myself and help others and I am happy that I am achieving that How do you keep focused under pressure? THINK ABOUT THE END RESULT •THINK ABOUT MY CHILDRENS AND HUSBANDS FUTURE •THINK ABOUT THE LOGICAL REASON WHY IM DOING IT . •THINK ABOUT THE PEOPLE /STAFF /STUDENTS ECT THAT ARE RELYING ON ME •ground myself and feel greatful for the life I have .
STEPHANIE ADDISON Occupation: Founder of Raindrops to Rainbows, which provides support for Perinatal Mental Health. I experienced Postnatal Depression after the birth of daughter in 2007, with no help or support Why have you been nominated? I think it is possibly because of how open I am about my own personal experience of Postnatal Depression, how I overcame it and then went on to help other mums. What is your proudest achievement? I feel I have achieved so much over the years, and feel extremely lucky to have been involved in lots of exciting projects, from newspaper articles to being invited to House of Commons. But I think my proudest moment was when my daughter told me she was proud of me after reading one of my newspaper articles. What is your greatest attribute? I think my positive outlook on life, alongside my resilience. Something which had to be self-taught over the years. How have you inspired others? I think because I have been so open about my own difficulties, how I developed Postnatal Depression and how I overcame it, then to go on and support other mums who may be experiencing PND, it has shown these women that they can recover, it has shown them that they do not have to hide away, it has encouraged them to speak up and seek help. How do you keep focused under pressure I always remember why I started this project, that keeps me focused and motivated, knowing I can make a difference.
JONG BAIK Occupation: Professor in Traditional East Asian Medicine & Doctor of Acupuncture. I am originally from South Korea but is now living in England. He is a highly respected, established international lecturer with an enthusiastic, knowledgeable and relaxed style of teaching. In 2016 I was awarded the title of Doctor of Acupuncture from the World Federation of Acupuncture and Moxibustion Societies. For 14 years I worked as part of a palliative care team at a local hospice. Why have you been nominated?I have an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and have devoted my life to sharing what I learn with others. Many people find education can be dry, complicated and uninviting therefore I endeavour to create a learning environment that is easily accessible, welcoming and nurturing. The student feedback is overwhelmingly positive and many return time and time again to further their knowledge and skills- deepening their knowledge and growing in confidence and ability. What is your proudest achievement? It was lovely when I was appointed as a Professor in recognition for all my hard work and commitment to educating others by Southern California University, School of Oriental Medicine & Acupuncture. What is your greatest attribute? I strive to be humble, open, honest and approachable towards my students, teach with integrity and always maintain a positive mental attitude towards all aspects of my life. How have you inspired others? I make a point of getting to know each student personally and learn about their background and their life plans and also how I can help them achieve more. I emphasise to all of them that although Traditional East Asian Medicine is a huge and sometimes difficult area of study if they invest their time and energy with me I can guide them through it in a clear and easy to understand manner. I am so proud when they leave the classroom with increased self-confidence, deeper knowledge and a wider skills set. How do you keep focused under pressure? I remind myself of my motivation for choosing this path in life and my goals. With a humble and genuine heart I aim to spread knowledge about Traditional East Asian Medicine to as many people as I can in a manner that is easy to understand and practical for them to use
ESTER VAN DE VILES Occupation Lifestyle blogger, model, CBD supplier, proud mother of two and founder of 'Essyentials' an upcoming online magazine Why I think I have been nominated? I genuinely love meeting new people and hearing their stories. If I can help by simply listning or offer support to encourage people to follow their dreams, grow in confidence, embrace self worth and self love I always will. When I was given the opportunity to start modelling about 3 years ago (aged 42,) at a time I felt very lost, I started posting my modelling images with inspirational quotes, which quickly moved onto my personal blog posts. This really helped me to rebuilt my identity after my 20 year marriage ended. My proudest achievement? My speech in Houses of Parliament last November for the White Ribbon Charity. This is a charity that supports women who have been subjected to domestic abuse and are trying to rebuilt their lives and reclaim their identity, confidence and self worth through the means of providing workshops with music, photography, sport and fashion. However personal messages of people telling me how a blog post have inspired them or helped them to move forward and feel more positive about themselves is simply priceless. My greatest attribute? I have been called a hurricane with lots of positive energy when people first meet me. I just love meeting new people and have been fortunate enough to get on with anyone from any walk of life. No matter how dire my situation has been I remain positive, grateful, resiliant or professional when required. Why do I think I inspire others? I think my personal blog posts, my openess about my struggles and insecurities, being understanding and non judgemental, my involvement with charities like MIND and positive body image campaigns and remaining kind, positive and wanting to push myself to be a better me have given me the opportunity to connect with so many incredible real people. How do I keep focussed under pressure? I switch off completely from social media, work commitments and spend time with loved ones. The people that keep you grounded, challange you, you can have a meaningful chat with, lots of laughter and dance offs to keep the natural endorphines flowing. I have learnt to prioritise my day to day list of things to do. Obviously looking after my body and mind has helped me through periods of excess stress. Alongside realising that no situation, how stressful and depressing it might seem at the time, the feeling isn't permanent. On top of that even if things fail as long as you have given it your best shot, you will still learn, recover and grow.
DANIEL P LEWIS Occupation: * Actor - Writer - Producer - Master Coach Why have you been nominated? I live each and everyday full of positivity. I try my absolute best to pass on my positivity to others and help teach others have to grow a more positive mind. What is your proudest achievement? I broke a boxing world record in 2012 by completing 112 rounds of continuous sparring (10 hrs in the ring) for charity. I set up my own charity that helped bullied and troubled kids off the streets and into boxing. I started a childhood dream of becoming an actor 2016. And in 2 years I have starred in 3 feature films, a TV series, 12 short films and a commercial. I have won 5 'Best Actor' awards in 3 countries for a performance in my own film (that I wrote, produced, starred in and directed). Being able to help others through my personal story and experiences. Having the strength, passion, wisdom and compassion is my proudest achievement. What is your greatest attribute? The power to make people smile. Make people laugh and be themselves around. "Laughing is the best medicine How have you inspired others? I grew up around drink, drugs, violence, police. I was a victim of sexual abuse from the age of 7 to the age of 13. I lost the closest people to me in horrendous ways at the worst times. I was kicked out of school when I was 14 and told I would never amount to anything. After turning my life around with boxing, 2 weeks before a professional debut I had an accident in work. I damaged my back badly which resulted in me being in a wheelchair and I had to retire from boxing. I have tried to take my life 3 times. Last year I was later placed under home-sectioning and was under 24 hr care. HOWEVER I have completely changed my life around after a "spiritual awakening." I speak with people everyday to help them. Help them see that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Help them see their potential and encourage them to chase their dreams. I am involved in mental health awareness charities My ultimate goal is to make the world smile. Steve Jobs once said "those who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are usually the ones who do." How do you keep focused under pressure? * I meditate everyday! Meditation is my new drug, my new addiction. I have a vision board that I visit everyday. I speak with the universe everyday making sure we work together. I try balance my life checking in on home, family, friends, myself, health, hobbies and profession.
COLE HALLSWORTH Occupation: Chef, author Why have you been nominated? When life throws you to the bottom of the pit, its the positive outlook that help us to rise as individuals. I would hope my book, Spilt Milk, is having a uplifting effect on chefs in the industry. What is your proudest achievement ? Proudest achievement so far is having the strength and faith in me to change my life after a very tough upbringing How do you remain focused? To not allow the negative to effect me and take a different path in life from where i was heading. How do you inspire people ? I pray my e-book, Spilt Milk inspires hope, If you fall you can stay down or you can not let the bad things in life win and you can rise. How do you remain focused? When I find things get to hard or pressure becomes high, I remember to breath the first and very basic instinct of being human is when things get tough breath and keep moving forward in the task at hand.
CLARE BOWERS Occupation: MumBossUK Why have you been nominated? I try my best to keep myself, my children and the women around me in business as positive as possible through self belief What is your proudest achievement? founding a platform for mums in business to believe that their journey as a business owner doesn't end when they get their new title as mum. It encourages the fire to ant more from life. Also my newly published book, "Not Just a Mummy" supporting women around the women on their motherhood journeys. How have you inspired others? I have worked in school supporting children with the self belief needed to achieve the results they deserve. I have inspired mums to start their own businesses. I inspire singles mums to know their own worth. I inspire women in business to never give up when faced with the challenges that business life brings. How do you keep focused? I stay grounded by having stored a memory of self belief though my past experiences. I've overcome so much that nothing will stop me from achieving greater results. Feeling pressure is a sign my body and mind need some time out
LUCY HOWE Occupation: Holistic Therapist Why have you been nominated?I actually don’t know. It could be that I’ve just had breast cancer and I have a fighting spirit and kept positive and upbeat throughout, making sure with all the research I did, my lifestyle, nutrition, health and wellness was on point for a full recovery, whilst motivating others to do the same. What is your proudest achievement? Beating Breast Cancer with the positivity, strength and determination I had. What is your greatest attribute Having empathy for people in difficult situations and being positive about life, which is why I am choosing to help people who have had cancer or going through cancer and are petrified of it returning. I’ve been there, I’ve been petrified, I’ve wasted days, weeks and months panicking. I’m now in a position to get on with my life feeling free of that impending doom. It’s a marvellous feeling and I need everyone else to feel as wonderful and as free as I do. How have you inspired others? I’m a holistic therapist who loves my clients and am always seeking out ways to help them achieve better results in fitness, health and wellbeing. I am passionate about people being happy in life and all of their choices. Beating breast cancer helped ;) How do you keep focused under pressure? By being grateful for every single breath I take and every single second I’m alive. I take a step back, rest and recuperate, listen to my own body and its messages it’s telling me. This time I’m listening.
GARY TOPLEY Occupation: Throughout the day I support others voluntarily with their alcohol struggles, those who have lost loved ones from alcohol, those that are supporting loved ones and those that need encouragement to stay sober. This I have been doing for 10 years now. I also work as a warehouseman. Why have you been nominated? I have overcome my own personal struggles with alcohol having 1 blip in 10 years. I now help thousands of others online with support, so they can have a better life and one that is much more positive out of the vicious circle of addiction. What is your proudest achievement? Setting up a 'closed' group on Facebook which has almost 2,500 people in it worldwide, so they can all share their struggles and successes to help each other overcome what they are currently facing. I have also done a lot more work, please look at my website at www.garytopley.co.uk What is your greatest attribute? I think my greatest attribute is the compassion I show to others in their struggles and regardless of the kind of day I am having I am still there to support anyone that needs it, not just with regards to alcohol addiction but anything of which people may be struggling with. How have you inspired others? By giving them the confidence to change by believing in them, and always being there to guide them toward a better life. How do you keep focused under pressure? I go to the gym most days as I love keeping fit and have set myself personal goals which I am well on the way to achieving.
CHRISTINE CLARK Occupation: Mental Health and Suicide Intervention Trainer and consultant Why have you been nominated? I have no idea but Im very proud. Creating Suicide safer workplaces and communities is my joy What is your proudest achievement to date? Previous candidates contacting me to tell me they have used their skills to ASK about suicide and support someone at risk I was given the Exemplary trainer in England award in 2014 at the House of Lords for my delivery of Mental Health First Aid qualification What is your greatest attribute? Ability to bring a syllabus to life and create momentum within workplaces to initiate mental health & crisis support. How have you inspired others? Ability to inspire others to understand their POWER in creating Suicide Safer communities How do you keep focused under pressure? Keep things simple .... concentrate on the important ..... connect with positive people
SALLY ANNE SAINT Occupation Energy worker, artist, writer and founder of Conscious Parenting UK Why have you been nominated? I have walked the path of traumatic life experiences and reclaimed my positive birthright so that I could support and be a light for others in the work that I do, to support parents in parenting from the heart and also supporting adults parent themselves better, to reclaim their authentic selves. What is your proudest achievement Having my son and parenting him from the heart, which was and is free from the societal constraints. I listened to him from the moment of conception and I have faced every family line, every life trauma so that he would not walk the path and I would be free from it. In parenting him Conscious Parenting came into being and it is an absolute honour to have given birth to this child and at the same time, given birth to this service, I offer to others. What is your greatest attribute? My ability to empathise with others, sensitivity is a gift that is often overlooked, but this world needs more of this and those with it need to be honoured. How have you inspired others? I have inspired others to look at their current situation and go deeper, so that they can heal and live the lives they are meant to, in healing the past, the present is truly yours. I remind people of this fact, and their inner light shines through. Allow feelings, be authentic, step forward and let the past be life experience, not a curse that strangles you and holds you back. It gives us wisdom and peace to transform the past. How do you keep focused? I spend as much time in nature as possible, it is my balm and I am thankful for it every day. Also, time with my son reminds me to lighten up and laugh.
PHIL STEELE Occupation? Job titles are Psychologist, Clinical Hypnotist and Reiki Master, my job is helping people overcome negative emotions and unlock their potential Why have you been nominated? Probably because people enjoy reading the posts and sayings shared on my Instagram and can resonate with the message. I just want to spread positive vibes, and also more importantly empower people to have the knowledge and energy to help themselves. 'Positivity by any means'. What is your proudest achievement? My beautiful 3 sons, they are the greatest thing that has happened to me and my wife. They keep us grateful & grounded, and also they are my lesson from the universe that its easy to be calm & relaxed in work and social environments, but when its 5 am and they are all jumping on the bed shouting thats a different story! What's your greatest attribute? Being an Indigo it is probably that I can listen and offer wisdom for people going through hard times. How have you inspired others? A great saying is 'be the energy you want to attract' and I realised pretty early on that the world doesn't owe you a thing so I worked on myself and that has created a spark which appeals to others. I started a movement in 2017 called 'Hypnosis 4 Men' where I challenged hypnotists around the world to do a free session for any guy who was suffering from suicidal thoughts and hopefully this has inspired other people who can do what i do to reach out and use their gifts. How do you keep focused under pressure? Pressure can be the greatest fuel, thats why diamonds shine because they mastered how to handle it. One tip would be to think of yourself as the metal boulder that has a plan in life to roll back and forth up and down a hill. Every now and then tiny magnets appear on each side of the track trying to pull it off course. The boulder makes itself bigger and stronger so that no matter how many magnets appear it can carry on completing its journey. Make your mind bigger and stronger. Trust the process.
EMMA POLLARD Occupation:Holistic therapist/make up artist/beauty therapist Why have you been nominated? 10 years ago my life turned upside down, I was with a violent partner who took his on his own life when my children were 2 and 1 week old. Through all the turmoil I pulled myself from rock bottom for the sake of my children and started to turn my life around. Holistic therapies played a huge part in this and has helped me through the hardest times of my life and has brought me where I am today. I have worked hard to learn as many treatments as u can as my friend and I are opening a wellness centre in the near future to hopefully help people develop mindfulness, suffer with depression, who are socially isolated....to lead a happy, healthier lifestyle through alternative therapies. T What is your proudest achievement? Watching my 3 beautiful girls grow, they inspire me to work hard to create a better life for them. Developing my mindful skills, meditation, holistic therapies are tools to help them in the future. What is your greatest attribute? To be happy, when you are happy nothing else in the world matters. Also gratitude, my life has been a rollercoaster so hard at times but it has brought me on this path and for that I’m am truly blessed and grateful. My path had made me a very strong and independent woman. How have you inspired others? Through my knowledge of life experience. I have worked hard to become the person I am today and that alone inspires others. Life is a constant lesson, take each day as it comes an learn from it. How do you remain focused? I meditate, I breath, and I calm my mind. I go for walks with my children and my dogs and also go for regular massages.
GEORGINA TANG Occupation: Founder and Creative Director of Yours Naturally Naturally Yours Why have you been nominated? I am a positive person and sincerely feel deeply honoured to be nominated for a Positive Award. What is your proudest achievement? My son who has complex medical & educational needs and almost died on many occasions but he is standing tall and enjoying life to the fullest. I was told that he would never reach his first birthday by his consultant but miracles happen because he is looking forward to celebrate his 15th birthday next week. They called him the “medical miracle”, as he no longer has the deadliest types of seizures. I nursed him during the first three years of his life because my son had a tendency to stop breathing without any warnings, even while he was sleeping, just to keep me on my toes! Therefore, I had to stay up to watch over him which went on for a long time. He still has a few long term life threatening medical conditions but he always has a smile on his face to cheer everyone up, a ray of shine. What is your greatest attribute? I always see thing from the positive angle, more importantly, never give up on what I believe in! How have you inspired others? I am a positive thinker despite living in a difficult family environment, working hard to provide for my son and his future care. I am manage a portfolio of properties, do freelance inspections with the Care Quality Commission and build my handmade natural & organic skin care and soy wax candles on my own. Through sheer hard work and perseverance, my skin care business is now very successful, despite starting this at the age of 50. It's real hard work managing everything, as well as co-ordinating my son care (he has about 10 consultants) and cooking every day as my son has multiple food allergies but I love it. Also, I enjoy helping other mums, especially those who have children with disabilities to access services and benefits for their children. In terms of the inspections that I do, they tend to be children with mental health and/or disabilities such as Autism and Learning Difficulties, my specialism. How do you keep focused? I focused on why I am doing it, which is to provide a brighter future for my son and I, more importantly, his future care needs will be provided for when I am gone. I have a few long term health conditions and too much pressure is not good, so I do Tai Chi and deep breathing exercises to ease any tensions. It’s hard when it’s your own business but it’s about time management and work life balance, which I have learned to do quite well.
CARRIE-ANNE SHIRLEY Occupation:Hairstylist/Entrepreneur Why have you been nominated? Probably due to my sheer love & passion of my creativity & learning things new continuously pulling myself out of my comfort zone to the max . My life journey has taken me through some incredibly dark times mentally, physically & emotionally , through Illness, trauma & loss which really had taken it's effects immensly over the time, with the thrive, drive determination, love & passion to learn through all of these things is what has grown me proudly to be the person I am today. What is your proudest achievement? Apart from the birth of my beautiful children & watching them develop & grow into humans I am immensly proud of .... It then would be my stepping up to learning from scratch how to road cycle so I could take part in a 200 mile cycle from Tuscany-Monaco over the Cinque de Terre raising awareness & vital funds for Caudwell Children A mamouth task to do alone while working my job, running my home & maintaining my Mum, but with the passion, drive , determination & huge efforts the fund raised just short of 5k which was a fantastic What's your greatest attribute? My patience, honesty flexibility & strong work ethic How have you inspired others? Being self reliant. Having the ability to see positive outcomes from negativity & by gaining the optimism to achieve good in this world & to positively fight for what's genuine & positively worth fighting for in .life. How do you keep focused under pressure? Has to be by listening to myself, to question the internal noise & turn down whats not necessary to allow focus & breathe to be able to act & respond to quick fire decision making
AHMED JUNEAD Occupation, restauteur Holdi Why have you been nominated? Because i have turned a dream into a reality What is your proudest achievement to date Turning a takeaway in Ellesmere port into a high end restaurant chain of 5 award winning businesses across the whole of the north west What is your greatest attribute? Listening to others and determination to grow and grow How do you inspire others I believe in a project even when others may have reservations and so my ambition and determination shows others that things can be achieved with a plan in place and upping your game, even without experience, you can learn as you grow. Fear is the biggest factor to stop people from taking steps to improve themselves and their businesses, but if I can do it, anyone can. How do you remain focused? By always learning new things and remaining excited in what Ido
JIMMY COBURN Occupation: musician Why you think you have been nominated: Because of my musical achievements and my deep interests in the teachings of Buddha Therapies and the Law Of Attraction (which I've wrote a song about) What is your proudest achievement to date? My daughter being born and writing my album titled Waterloo Key. I started out in The Blue Meanies who performed Beatles Music as well as my own album called The Bubbles Burst. The Blue Meanies actually shared a stage with Sir Paul McCartney at the Liverpool Empire theatre to celebrate George Harrison's Birthday three months after George passed away. This Event was a fund raiser for Macmillan cancer charity. In 2012 along with my brother Tony formed the The Cavern Club Beatles who sell out shows Three times a week at the famous Cavern Club in Liverpool. The Cavern Club Beatles have performed in New York , Miami, in conjunction with Liverpool city Council to celebrate 50 years to the day the Beatles first landed in America. The Cavern Club Beatles played exactly the same venues as the Beatles did. John Lennon's sister Julia who is also Cavern director , was part of this launch. Daytona, Brazil, Austria, Spain and one of the worlds biggest cruise ships The Norwegian epic and The Norwegian Bliss. What is your greatest attribute? I like to help people and my daughter said I have a good heart(this is actually Sadie his daughter typing this haha!) How do you think you have inspired others? By never giving in and the lyrics to my songs off my album have inspired many people. What do you do to keep you focused under pressure? I take a deep breath and focus on all the things that I am happy and grateful for in my life.
LEE KELLY Occupation; Theatre production owner Why have you been nominated? In Liverpool, the core of our offering centres around our performances at the Epstein Theatre .The annual Christmas and Easter pantomimes that we have been putting on since the Epstein re-opened following refurbishment in 2011 are often sold out and provide wholesome family entertainment.
LHK Productions is one of the most acclaimed and unique theatre & pantomime production companies in the UK. Formed in 2005, LHK productions has quickly put its stamp on the UK's theatre scene hosting countless shows in some of the biggest and most prestigious venues in the country. The company’s ethos is about giving the audience a fun and traditional pantomime but with a fresh and current twist. It’s this unique outlook that has rapidly turned LHK into the UK's most bespoke production company and turned the company into a global brand, landing huge deals with companies in both Dubai and Lebanon. What is your proudest achievement to date? I trained professionally at London’s prestigious Laine Theatre Arts and worked with many established artists including: Ms Cilla Black in Cinderella at the Liverpool Empire Theatre, Mr Henry Winkler (The Fonz) in Peter Pan, Our Benny, starring Ms Bernie Nolan, at the Liverpool Empire and Now That’s What I Call Culture at the Liverpool Echo Arena, where Lee was approached by Mr Phil Redmond, executive producer of Mersey Television, to both judge and choreograph the event. Bringing Pantomime back to Liverpool’s old Neptune Theatre was one of my finest moments What is your greatest attribute? Guiding & encoring local youngsters which we have seen thousands come through our doors at my youth theatre