There are now 11.6 million women-owned businesses in the U.S that generate a staggering $1.7 trillion in revenue. Last year, Fortune 500 reported that the number of female CEOs of Fortune 500 companies had increased by over 50%, their biggest growth yet, however, disappointingly there are still only 24 female CEOs, which equates to just under 5% of the total list.
In collaboration with Élan Café and Nudestix, we held our inaugural Boss Brunch to celebrate female entrepreneurs who are creating opportunities for themselves. We invited four incredibly smart, talented and hardworking women who are trailblazers in their own industries for a morning filled with inspirational conversation, delicious food and Nudestix goodie bags.
48 Park Ln, Mayfair, London W1K 1PR
Fifi Anicah – Model and Artist
How did you start your business/line of work?
I always knew I didn’t want a “proper” job. I studied Fine Art at uni and started modelling part-time, and now they go hand in hand.
What has been your career highlight thus far?
The first time I saw myself on billboards and in stores but not because I’m a narcissist – it hit me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. I couldn’t imagine it before because I created boundaries in my head. Now, I know my full potential, I feel inspired to dream bigger than ever.
Do you think enough is done to support women in business?
No. Even when a woman has a senior role in the workplace, she is often the token, rather than valued. There’s too much focus on women looking ‘perfect’, we forget that women are leaders, mothers, creators. We are so much more than something to look at.
Molly Mangan – Baker
How did you start your business/line of work?
My grandmother taught me how to bake as a child and I have baked ever since. After posting a photo on Instagram of one of my cakes, which led to one offer and then another to purchase. I haven’t looked back since.
Do you think enough is done to support women in business?
I think at the moment there are so many successful female entrepreneurs, it’s making it easier for young women to have the confidence to start their own business.
What advice would you give to those who would like to be their own boss?
My biggest tip is to utilise social media as much as possible. It’s been such a platform for me to get my designs out there and also to reach a much wider audience. Get a mentor in your field of work and try to build a community around you of like-minded people so you can build your confidence and have a support system.
Kat – Founder of Yogi Bare
How did you start your business?
Yogi Bare began with a tiny range of 4-pieces, the sale of each batch financed the creation of a new product to add to the collection and little by little it grew. I started without expectation or fear.
Do you think enough is being done to support women in business?
You can’t knock a girl off a pedestal she built herself, remember the phrase Girl Boss exists for a reason – you don’t need permission from anyone but yourself.
What advice would you give to those who would like to be their own boss?
You’ll cut your your legal, finance, creative, dogsbody, customer service and PR department in one. You’ll never work harder. You’ll doubt and curse, you’ll discover your fire and determination. And yet, despite it all, you’ll never have felt more alive, a passion and belief in your veins like nothing else.
www.yogi-bare.co.uk
Madeleine Spencer – Beauty Editor and Journalist
How did you start your business/line of work?
After quitting a job I hated in the city, I took the advice of turning my hobby into a job and started to write my blog and pitch ideas for articles. It was initially a slow grind, but eventually, it all started to come together.
What are your goals for the near future?
I’m launching a podcast, write for publications, create content for the blog, and work as a make-up artist, which doesn’t leave much time to recline and read – aka my idea of heaven! Hopefully, in the near future, I’ll be able to build more pockets of downtime into my day.
Do you think enough is done to support women in business?
No. There are so many practical problems to do with the roles women have traditionally assumed at home like childcare, housework, and general planning. I think flexible hours and other support mechanisms that allow a woman to be judged on output and not on hours or mandatory office attendance are crucial.
