International Women’s Day: A celebration of success

“My name is Stefanie Burgess, and I am the Business Manager of IOW Espresso & Caffe Isola.

I am proud to be part of the Burgess family business and play a key role in its progression and development within the wholesale and hospitality sector.

I joined the business 10 years ago, where I worked a mere 2 days a week whilst having our first son Dylan. Over the years as both our children have grown up, my hours and workload have increased with the pace and growth of the business.

My role within the company encompasses a variety of different roles from management of our 40 team members, accounting, logistics, event organisation, business networking, HR management - it makes sure every day is different!

Being a successful business- woman does not come easy, however with a lot of hard work, passion, determination & confidence women are able to adapt and be proactive to the ever-changing world around them.”

“After an HR career spanning 25+ years, I gave up the greying grind of the corporate world, burned-out. In the 5 years since then, I’ve grown ChilliWinter, an Artisan Brand, based at our Cowes Studio with my partner Dave, who works full time. I trained in Aromatherapy 20+ years ago, working full time, studying post-grad, and bringing up my daughter.

I thrive with renewal, so transferring my skills to develop and grow our brand was a natural step.

Our business is not about profit, it’s about slow-living, conscious consumerism, and collaboration. The best bit is when our customers ‘get it’, and our connections deepen.

Since we began, we’ve raised £6,000+ for charity, won 4 national awards, and worked closely with many independent businesses.

I still provide ad hoc leadership coaching, Instruct for Mental Health First Aid England regularly speak at Wellbeing exhibitions.”

“Hi, I’m Sue, I’m one of the Directors of The Rosetta Group Ltd.

Where do I begin? Since starting my work life – I worked 5 years for Cheverton Workboats in Cowes until it joined forces with Fairey Marine in East Cowes. Following that, I spent over 30 years working for Strainstall in Cowes, then I worked full time for our business Open Sauce Systems Limited and latterly The Rosetta Group Limited and ilovecowes.com, also for the Cowes Business Association as Secretary for over 5 years – all of which was administration work.

Personally, I’ve been a Brownie Leader and had numerous Barmaid positions, more importantly I gave my life to Christ over 35 years ago. I’m a Charity Trustee, a Primary School Governor as well as a Church Evangelist’s PA – all of which have been, and are, satisying roles and I would recommend them if you get the chance. You need an all round life experience!”

“I’m Becky, Founder of Digital Eaze, and I’m passionate about empowering women in business. As a woman- led company, I understand the challenges female entrepreneurs face, and I’m dedicated to providing the support they need to succeed.

Through Digital Eaze, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless women-owned businesses, helping them grow, thrive, and achieve their goals. From providing tailored marketing strategies to offering mentorship and guidance, I’m committed to levelling the playing field and amplifying the voices of women in business.

Together we can overcome obstacles and forge new paths to success. On International Women’s Day, I’m proud to celebrate the achievements of every woman I’ve had the honour of supporting. Here’s to breaking boundaries, smashing stereotypes, and paving the way for a brighter future.”  

“I’m Jean and I set up and run Vectis Accountants Ltd in 2003. Numbers have always been my passion and being an accountant was a no brainer – it was that or become a maths teacher!

Previously I worked in practice and in industry but being a bit of a rebel - liking freedom and not having restrictions, I went out on my own and ‘Vectis Accountants’ was born! We are completely cloud based and are MTD ready, having embraced the most up-to-date software.

We also believe in giving back and are members of B1G1. This means that every time we work with a client, we contribute to providing access to education, and to help protect and preserve our precious planet for our future generations.

We offer a high-quality service from our (currently) all-female team, catering for all our clients, but balanced with a friendly, personal and approachable manner and we are always ready to chat over a cup of coffee!”

“My name is Lucy and I have been the manageress at Farmhouse Fayre for 17 years. I concentrate on providing the Island with fresh fruit and vegetables and support many Island businesses within my shop.

I have built it up over the past years introducing new products and listening to my customers. I am proud to supply home grown Isle of Wight produce from our farm which is cut daily and delivered fresh.

One thing I am forever grateful for each day is having a fantastic team because with a great team beside you anything is possible.

I absolutely love my shop and wouldn’t want to work anywhere else because for me this isn’t a job it’s a passion and if you feel like that then you are giving 100% back. I treat customers like friends and friends like family and I would encourage anyone to just make people smile.”

“I’m Justine, founder of Just For You Holiday Homes and the driving force behind our newest venture, Wight Laundry.

With over 16 years in the property sector, my diverse team of predominantly women spans various ages and abilities. Together, we pride ourselves on delivering personalised and unparalleled experiences for our guests on the stunning Isle of Wight. From our attention to detail to our exceptional customer care, we strive to create unforgettable memories for each guest.

Just For You Holiday Homes paved the way for Wight Laundry, born from the need for dedicated laundry services to maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and comfort. Now, Wight Laundry Services extends its expert care to businesses across the Isle of Wight, ensuring they receive more than just clean laundry – they receive a partner dedicated to enhancing their operations.”

“As a woman who has held leadership roles throughout my career, I understand first-hand the challenges and opportunities that come with breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields.

My journey through banking, business, property management and public life has taught me the importance of advocating for all women to reach for their full potential.

Becoming a Magistrate at 27, I was the youngest person ever to be appointed member of the judiciary. I was the first female leader of Portsmouth City Council, and I am the first female Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

I firmly believe that every woman deserves the opportunity to thrive, that’s why I am committed to using my platform to empower women and create a society where everyone has the chance to succeed. Together, we can shatter glass ceilings and build brighter futures for all women in our communities.”

“So many incredible women have inspired me to step forward to be the first female MP on the Isle of Wight – including Rachel Thomson at Pan Together and Kirsty Chapman at Better Days Caffe.

It’s women on the Island who are helping out communities, leading campaigns and fixing the gaps left by successive failures of government.

As a Green Party MP candidate I strive to be more like them: not just talking about a better world, but actively doing things to make it so.

So outside of elections you may see me picking up litter, stewarding at events – and loving my job as a secondary school teacher. Greens are concerned about protection for wildlife and to tackle the climate crisis - but we know that this can only be achieved in a fairer world.”

“After what’s been happening to MPs and candidates just recently, receiving abuse and death threats, I felt obliged to say this.

We should never be scared to put our head above the parapet, say what we think and try to do what we feel is right, even when some would prefer us to be silent.

We still live in a world where speech is powerful and silencing someone is taking away their ultimate freedom. We need to empower each other, even when we disagree, because it’s from differences of opinion and different belief structures that we can all grow and change for the better.

I’d encourage anybody thinking of doing something new for the first time, to just go ahead and do it. The worst thing is wondering what could have been. Be brave, be honest, be tolerant, be inquisitive, and most of all... just be you.”

“I’m Nicola Murgatroyd, Founder & CEO of MyLiferaft and entrepreneur in the Pharmaceutical sector.

As a mother, carer, and advocate for my daughter, who had multiple complex care needs, I recognised the necessity for a centralised platform to manage caregiver information. This journey inspired MyLiferaft, an online smart healthcare product designed to support individuals and their network of professionals, community, family, and friends. Alongside empowering older adults to take control of their health to reduce the risk of hospitalisation, we aim to enhance independence, maintain high quality of life, and achieve personal goals.

We are proud to be launching soon, myra, an app to help older adults and their network of carers and supporters to facilitate your safe discharge from hospital and reduce the risk of re-admission. Life’s uncertainties are inevitable, but with MyLiferaft, you can stay one step ahead and prepare for the unexpected.”

“As a town councillor for Cowes Medina for more than 25 years, I still find helping local residents very fulfilling.

I organise, support and attend many community events, which I enjoy. Many ladies still remember me helping  them look their best for special events when I owned Posh Frocks, a dress agency.

My anger over the proposed sale of Northwood House first got me involved in politics. My campaign led to me being elected to the IW Council in 2003.

Since then I have been Deputy Mayor and Mayor of Cowes, and Chairman and Leader of the IW Council. My current cabinet responsibilities include climate change, the biosphere and waste – all important to the future of our Island.

Family is so very important, and I am blessed with the support of my husband, John and our two daughters. I am now also a grandmother and enjoy that role enormously.”

“Growing up, I’ve always tried to feed both the creative and analytical sides of my personality. By day, I work alongside my family, who run Grace’s Bakery on the Isle of Wight. Taking on HR and accounts allows me plentiful opportunities to both ‘nerd out’ on data entry and support the rich assortment of minds that work within our team.

By night, I run my own pet portrait business, JazzleCraft; pouring my heart into pet portraits which has allowed me to connect with animal lovers across the globe. I get endless joy from working with customers to capture their pets in my paintings.

Balancing the demands of both businesses isn’t easy but it’s a challenge I gladly embrace.

Despite the hustle and occasional chaos that comes from running a business, there’s a sense of fulfillment in overcoming challenges and working with my family is the icing on the cake!”

Jo Rees founded Another Way Round Dyslexia support in January 2016. It’s now entering its 9th successful year supporting schools, workplaces, parents and individuals. Jo was diagnosed with dyslexia in 2010. Whilst completing a specialist qualification in dyslexia teaching and assessing it became clear to Jo that dyslexia remains a misunderstood and invisible learning difference.

She has made it her mission to raise awareness and has built a thriving and essential service that is a lifeline for many young people. Supporting them, and identifying their needs, assisting them in finding ways to fulfil their potential.

This year Jo has built a large following on TikTok, launched a podcast and is excited to have been invited as a speaker to the National Dyslexia Show again in March. She continues to support people, both online and face-to-face, with dyslexia. To learn more visit: www.anotherwayround.co.uk

“From an early age, my parents instilled in me the values of hard work and empathy, principles I’ve held dear across my professional life.

Starting at 18 as an aspiring Chartered Accountant, in 2004, I co-founded Ency Associates in Portsmouth. A career change came in 2021 when my husband and I embarked on a new venture, Right at Home Isle of Wight, a homecare business based in Bembridge. Hard work and dedication, alongside our incredible team, has earned us an Outstanding rating in 3 of 5 domains by the CQC and a 5-star team rating from a recent Workbuzz survey.

Besides business, my commitment to giving back is evident through years of volunteering for Headway Charity and Barnardo’s.

Other fundraising endeavours include a Mount Kilimanjaro trek and completing the London Marathon for charitable causes, raising £3,500 for Hope and Homes for Children and £2,000 for The Alzheimer’s Society.”

“I ‘fell’ into the role of a County Councillor because a friend invited me to join her and seek election. I am a Londoner but came to the Island and ran a picture framing business. I am retired, but bring a wealth of life’s experiences to my role. There aren’t many situations I haven’t had to face, including being a widow at 46 with 2 sons.

I owned and ran a coach company in London and worked for a large car hire company; I was a Trustee at The Bluebell Railway in Sussex which I still love and visit.

Come and join me and make a big difference to our lovely Island – ‘A woman’s touch’ is desperately needed so that the 50 per cent of the population’s views are publicised. Contact me and I will give you all the information you need – the good and the bad.”

“My journey into local politics, representing the Green Party, was unexpected but didn’t come as a surprise to my family and friends. Life tends to set you up for challenges you have ahead without realising it.

I am very fortunate to have had many inspirational women guide me in my life. The late Cllr Brenda Lawson from Ventnor was one of those who was particularly important to my younger self, giving me the confidence and encouragement to go further. My mother has been my best motivation. She always tells me to say yes and worry about how to do it later!

Being one of only 9 women out of 39 councillors, I would like to see more women representing our community. There are great resources to encourage more women at www.elect-her.org.uk”

“My name’s Olivia (Liv) and I run a small little cat business called ‘liv’s cat island’.

I have been running this business since May 2023 and have been very successful and fully booked in less than a year. I’ve been cat mad what feels like my whole life.

When I rented my first ever flat, I knew straight away I wanted to get a cat/kitten to join me in my little home. That’s where my dearest little Cleo came into my life!

The main reason why I absolutely adore cats is not just because of how incredibly cute, fluffy and their pointy ears are, but it’s the spiritual connection you can have with them.

Cats are the greatest Buddhists around. I’ve learnt so much more about myself on how to approach everything with calmness and good vibes since owning cats. Thank you for reading and hope to hear from you soon.”

“I set up Naked Figleaf Collective in Autumn 2021 to promote performing arts on IOW. Underpinned with the motto We Give A Fig, the venture has since blossomed into a hub for all kinds of creativity. The Figgy Gigs continue to bring together many gifted performers in West Wight.

Last summer, I inaugurated the two-day YARNIVALTM WordFest to celebrate local wordsmiths; the next one is in September 2024. I also launched Naked Figleaf Press, a small publishing concern for IOW writers. So far, I’ve published three books of poetry, with a fourth pending. I’ve initiated a bi-annual literary magazine – The Figlet – to showcase the rich talent of writers living on the Island.

Most recently, I formed a band – WomenKind – to record a song I’d written for International Women’s Day to raise money for Home-Start, IOW. Establishing the Collective has been challenging, but the rewards have made it an absolute joy.”

“I am fortunate to lead a well- established inclusive charity, recognised for its achievements and supported by a brilliant team of local trustees. Our dedicated staff team goes above and beyond for our customers to offer outstanding products, support services, educational sessions, training, work experience and paid jobs.

We inspire people with disability or mental ill health to play a full part in our community. With our support our customers and referrals can fill their week with session activities and/or work aspirations to achieve the best possible outcome for them as an individual.

Charities are very much a full-functioning business, and with budgets being cut in all sectors, money is tight and every penny counts. Our fantastic local support and local businesses enable us to offer the outstanding services that we do. Keeping funding local does really help and benefits the whole community.”

“After a career in retail management, I was looking for a new challenge. So, in 2013 I jumped at the chance to join my father, Dave and brother Chris at our family run business WRS Systems.

My first role was in the Accounts Department where I assisted with credit control. I’ve been the Operations Director for the past 8 years where I manage all ordering of Hardware and have oversight of the whole day-to-day running of the business.

The business was founded in 2003 and is now 21 years old and it fills me with great pride that we now employ over 65 people. We couldn’t have achieved this growth without the 15 inspiring women working at WRS Systems.

We have hit the ground running in 2024 and are very excited for what the future holds.

Happy International Women’s Day ladies.”

“I’m Char and I am founder of Duxmore Botanics. I’m a farmer’s wife and a busy mum to three beautiful children. I took the leap to become self- employed in 2019, after 13 amazing years at Britain’s leading botanical skincare brand, working alongside industry experts. I started out in our farm kitchen and now have a dedicated HQ. I develop and manufacture all of our products on-site, and formulate for other brands too.

As an aromatherapist, cosmetic scientist and holistic massage therapist, I love combining all of these principles to create products that we can all enjoy, delivering great results with an aromatherapy influence.

We pride ourselves on delivering a personal first- class service and high quality products, using ethically and responsibly sourced ingredients. We work with trusted ingredient suppliers and fellow Island-based businesses too. We love to focus on the details, from bespoke hampers to hand-written cards, maintaining a human touch in this fast paced world.”

“International Women’s Day 2024 theme is ‘Inspire. Inclusion’. I have had challenging times in my life and felt at times I was treated differently due to my gender; however, I also knew it is so important to be your authentic self and believe in your worth.

If you want to achieve a goal you’ve always wanted to do, just go for it; there are no limits to what you can accomplish!

The world needs strong women; I was brought up by a strong woman and I thank her for the person I have become.

I love my role looking out for residents and helping to create change for the better. If I can inspire just one woman to reach for what they want, that would be rewarding; we need to stick together and inspire each other every day”

“Founded in 2003, Jack Up Events is run by a tiny team of two. Our aim is to deliver affordable high-quality, locally-accessible cultural entertainment to ‘bring back the good times’ whilst supporting Island charities and traders.

We organise a wide range of events throughout the year and 2024 is set to be our busiest yet, featuring TaylorMania on 8th June, Abba Party Night on
6th July and Jack Up Summer Party, 10th-11th August. Tickets are on sale now!

I’ve recently stepped into the role of Tour Manager for one of our ‘audience with’ shows, Ronnie, Reggie & Me with Fred Dinenage which is touring the UK, visiting 44 venues.

During the season you’ll find me managing our sister business, Retro Staycations in Ryde where guests can stay in an original American Airstream caravan. Our picturesque glamping site also plays host to a variety of boutique events, private parties and weddings.”

“For over 20 years I have run Gems Bridalwear. I previously worked for a bank but I yearned to use my love of sewing, making and altering Bridalwear.

By chance my daughter was working at a florist and told me a bride needed two bridesmaid dresses. This jolted me into fulfilling my dream. I sourced material, and went from there.

I set up my first shop, which was so successful it was followed by one in Richmond and another in Chiswick with pop-up shops countrywide, including the NEC National Wedding Show.

The experience I gained was invaluable. I have now achieved my aim - ‘To make sure that every bride can afford their dream dress, whatever their budget’.

I am so lucky to have a first- class manager, Tara, who is also an amazing seamstress. She leads a team of incredible ladies with a wealth of experience in the Bridal industry.”

“Red Squirrel was founded in 2012 with my now husband, Stuart, after years of nurturing a passion for property. Born in 1961 on the Island, life wasn’t easy as the eldest of five, in a family watching every penny. Hard work started early; I landed my first job cleaning chalets in Yarmouth at 13 and moved to London at 17 to further my career. My breakthrough came when I bought a flat at 18. I learnt how to improve it and it was the start of my property portfolio.

Life’s challenges included marriage breakdown, crippling endometriosis and worst of all, my daughter, Zoe’s death from cancer.

Red Squirrel is now a successful business with an incredible team, including my son, Charlie as CEO. I’m proud of the legacy I’ve built for my children and grandchildren, which is testament to overcoming challenges with hard work and love from family and friends.”

“Alongside my twin sister, older brothers and parents I run Grace’s Bakery. Although in family business you end up doing a little bit of everything,

I’m responsible for all the fun stuff. Branding, social media, photography and marketing!

International Women’s Day is always exciting for me as I get to share stores of women in Isle of Wight History through my art. For the past few years I have been researching true stories of speedboat racers and Spitfire pilots, skateboarders and engineers and even a woman who flew to the U.S. to take Ronald Reagan to court. In my spare time I write short stories and draw portraits of these women.

I’m also the local councillor for Wootton Bridge, which has been a really rewarding experience. I’ve been able to meet some super interesting people and I enjoy doing my bit to help my community thrive!”

“We celebrated 35 years in business last year with a fantastic 5 page spread in the Observer and a weekend of special offers, fizz and food in August. We had a busy weekend with great feedback from all who attended.

We suffered the sad loss of our Operations Manager suddenly over Christmas 2023, so it has been a difficult start to the year. However, our aim is to remain positive and to work through things as a team.

Success often relies on experiences that make you go outside your comfort zone and there has been a lot of changes lately with staff roles; I have to say they have all raised to the challenge and we are very proud of them.

Remember, don’t be afraid of failure as without failure there would be no success. Also, the problem is not other people, it is how you deal with them!”