BWC Aberdeen March 2024

Back for another year

Louise West

Founder of Bake Box Highland

March

Elevator launches Programme

Aimed at Scottish Women in Business

Karen Smith

Supporting Scottish Women in Business

Scotland’s finest young female minds

Schoolgirls showcase entrepreneurial prowess

BWC Memberships

£240 per year

£240 per year

STARTING A BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP

Enjoy a full annual membership with access to all areas of BWC Aberdeen. Plus access to the Business Start-Up Toolkit.

Business Start-Up Toolkit PDF guides containing everything you need to know about starting a business.

BENEFITS

Access to the BWC App

Discounts with advertising profiles in BWC magazine

8:45 BWC business connections (Monthly)

Power Hour online (Monthly)

Discounted ticket for the BWC Events

Mentor Match - opportunity to apply for a mentor

Apply for Programme for Growth

10% Discount on Federation of Small Businesses membership

£650 per year

COMPANY MEMBERSHIP

Enjoy a full annual membership with access to all areas of BWC Aberdeen.

BENEFITS

Access to the BWC App

Discounts with advertising profiles in BWC magazine

8:45 BWC business connections (Monthly)

Power Hour online (Monthly)

Discounted ticket for the BWC Events

Mentor Match - opportunity to apply for a mentor

Apply for Programme for Growth

10% Discount on Federation of Small Businesses membership

Corporate memberships to employees of companies (up to three members).

BENEFITS

Access to BWC App (each staff member has own access, up to 3 individuals)

Half page advert in 2 of our magazines (value £249)

Further discounted advertising in BWC Magazine

8:45 BWC business connections (Monthly)

Power Hour online (Monthly)

Company logo added to BWC website as a partner (hyperlinked)

10% Discount on Federation of Small Businesses membership

2024 BWC EVENTS

MARCH

14TH MARCH:

Thirsty Thursday - Shape Shifters, Aberdeen

21ST MARCH:

Meet Sarah Haran and Andrew BartonAn Evening of Lifestyle - Bloom Salon, Aberdeen

22ND MARCH:

BWC Aberdeen Corporate Lunch - Duncano’s, Westhill Shopping Centre. Guest Speaker - Dr Monika, Professor at Aberdeen University, talking about all things gut health and good food related.

27TH MARCH:

7:45 BWC Business ConnectionsThe Villge Hotel, Kingswells

APRIL

18TH APRIL:

Thirsty Thursday - Malmaison Aberdeen

25TH APRIL:

7:45 BWC Business ConnectionsPalm Court Hotel, Aberdeen

MAY

29TH MAY:

7:45 BWC Business ConnectionsThe Chester Hotel, Aberdeen

To book events visit www.bwcaberdeen.co.uk

Dear Members of the Business Women’s Community in Aberdeen,

As we approach March, I find myself reflecting on the whirlwind of activity that has characterised the beginning of this year for us. Our inaugural leadership conference in January was a great success, and the positive feedback we received was truly heartening. It is with great pleasure that I announce our plans for a second leadership conference later this year, building upon the momentum and enthusiasm generated by our first leadership event.

Since assuming responsibility for BWC Aberdeen, I’ve had the privilege of meeting numerous remarkable women in business. Each encounter has been an opportunity to share inspiring stories and forge connections within our community. BWC Aberdeen is more than just an organisation; it’s a vibrant network of support and empowerment for women in business.

As we continue to grow and evolve, we are eager to hear from you, our valued members, about how we can better serve your needs. Your input is invaluable as we strive to offer events and resources that are relevant and beneficial to the diverse array of businesses represented within our community.

I’m thrilled to announce the return of the Athena Awards for a second year, with the official launch date scheduled for International Women’s Day on March 8th, 2024. Last year’s awards were a testament to the remarkable achievements of women in our community, and I have no doubt that this year will be equally inspiring. Whether you choose to nominate yourself or another deserving individual or business, rest assured that the nomination process is conducted with the utmost confidentiality and integrity. Our judging process ensures that each nominee is evaluated fairly and thoroughly.

I smile with joy and excitement from last year’s awards ceremony, and I am eagerly anticipating another unforgettable event this year. Who could forget the captivating presence of Dolly Parton? Her performance was truly unforgettable, and I’m certain that this year’s event will be equally memorable.

I would like to extend my gratitude to each and every one of you for your continued support and participation in our BWC community. Your enthusiasm and dedication are the driving force behind everything we do.

I look forward to seeing many of you at upcoming events and gatherings, and I encourage you to reach out with any suggestions or feedback you may have. We will continue to build a thriving community where women in business can thrive and succeed.

Karen Karen@bwcaberdeen.co.uk www.bwcaberdeen.co.uk

Elevator launches E3f programme for Scottish women in business

Women across Scotland are being empowered to turn their passion or idea into a burgeoning business with the launch of a new programme.

Run by Elevator, a social enterprise which supports entrepreneurship and employability across Scotland, E3f is a free six-week initiative dedicated to help women dream big and turn their aspirations into a reality. Funded by the Scottish Government through their Pathways Fund, E3f will offer participants the chance to connect with a community of like-minded women, sharing experiences and building lasting connections.

The ‘Entrepreneurial Ecosystem’ model will run in three areas – in South Glasgow, Angus and Moray. The unique community outreach project provides tailored support to women in diverse areas, be it in rural areas, representing diversity or facing socio-economic challenges.

It is aimed at women who want to explore their potential and embark on a transformative journey. Whether you already have a solid business idea, want to start a business but have no firm focus, or just want to grow business ownership skills, E3f can help. Interactive workshops will help participants enhance skills, boost confidence and equip them for success. From idea generation to practical sessions, the programme will propel them to success and self-discovery.

A digital platform offering ongoing support beyond the six weeks helps nurture and consolidate connections, access resources and continue the journey with the support of the E3f community.

The programmes will be delivered by Lucy Steading, Cat Ward and Blessing Shamaki, who all have acclaimed

backgrounds in business development and mentoring.

Elevator CEO, Professor Gary McEwan, said:

“We are thrilled to launch the E3f programme, an initiative that reflects Elevator’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and empowering women across diverse communities in Scotland.

“Our goal is to provide a transformative experience for women who aspire to reach their full business potential. The E3f programme not only breaks down barriers but also creates a dynamic space where women can connect, share experiences, and build lasting connections. At Elevator, we believe that every woman, regardless of her background, deserves the opportunity to turn her passion into a flourishing business.”

Elevator strengthening communities director, Rachel Ross, said: “This programme is specifically designed to offer tailored support to women in three regions across Scotland, addressing the diverse needs of individuals in rural areas, those representing different facets of diversity, and those facing socio-economic challenges.

“We understand the unique hurdles that female entrepreneurs often encounter, and E3f aims to be a catalyst for positive change. By providing a platform for women to explore their potential, connect with like-minded individuals, and receive practical skills through interactive workshops, we are breaking down barriers and fostering an environment where women can thrive in their entrepreneurial journey.”

www.elevatoruk.com/accelerators/e3f/

Empowering Success: The Impact of BWC Aberdeen Membership

Discover the game-changing benefits experienced by businesses as members of BWC Aberdeen. From unparalleled networking opportunities to access to invaluable resources, witness the transformative difference that BWC membership makes for entrepreneurs and professionals alike. Join us as we explore the vibrant community driving success in Aberdeen’s business landscape.

HOUSE OF COLOUR

Joining BWC is one of the best decisions I have made during my business career. Being a Colour and Image Consultant, a Celebrator of Individuality, and a Curator of Confidence it is important to find the right audience. Well, I have done that with this incredibly diverse group of female entrepreneurs. Over the past 8 months, I have welcomed many of our members to my studio to share with them knowledge and understanding of the business benefits of colour and style. I see my clients standing out in the room at our monthly meetings, making that vital first impression so important in our businesses. I cannot recommend joining this group highly enough – it’s a ‘no-brainer’!

PLANET TASTEFUL

Joining BWC Aberdeen was a no brainier for me. As a relatively new small business, the key reasons I joined were to benefit from the expertise in the room, collaborate with like minded people and most of all, get my business out there to my ideal customers - women! Why would I not join a group that each member and their friends could be potential customers?

As well as benefiting from tips and gaining knowledge from other members through their presentations, I’ve connected with some amazing women and working on collaborative projects to benefit both our businesses. Sales have increased as I’ve gained new customers who are members and they have since referred their connections. My business profile has been raised thanks to being nominated and ultimately winning an Athena Award, with orders flooding in from attendees of the awards during the event.

For those looking to network and haven’t quite found their tribe, look no further than BWC as there is no group who will support women more passionately as other women.

VERANO INTERIORS

BWC came into the picture at the perfect time for both me and my business.

Transitioning from 25-years as an employee to launching and managing my own business was a big challenge. It required a complete shift in mindset, and being a part of BWC has propelled me to where I needed to be. I’ve gained valuable knowledge and connected with genuinely inspiring women.

Grateful to BWC for the journey!

SALLY BRYANT – GARY WALKER

Being part of BWC Aberdeen has been great for me. I am relatively new to networking and didn’t relish the prospect of going to networking events where it was a room full of people all trying to sell to each other. BWC is not like that at all. It is a warm welcoming environment where everyone is supporting each other in both their professional and personal development. Winning the Women in Finance award has been amazing for me. It was fantastic to be recognised for my passion for improving the financial wellbeing of my clients of all genders, but in particular for woman. In under a year I have made great connections that has resulted in me being able to assist new clients with their financial planning.

Investing in the Future

Schoolgirls showcase entrepreneurial prowess: future asset unveils shortlist of scotland’s finest young minds in investment

A hotly contested competition to find Scotland’s next generation of female investors is nearing its conclusion with schoolgirls nationwide vying for the top accolades after their shortlisting to the 2024 finals. Teams from Glasgow, Oban, Moray, East and West Lothian, and Ayr have all made it to the last round of this year’s Growing Future Assets Competition, which encourages young women to consider a career in the world of investment management.

During the contest, the pupils must prove their ability to spot the next big investment prospect by researching, analysing, and pitching a company they think will be a lucrative long-term asset. They are assisted in the process by mentoring delivered by investment management professionals, who share their experience and provide career insights, advice and inspiration, and the support of teachers. This year more than 100 Competition Coaches from 33 firms, including Baillie Gifford, Stewart Investors and Martin Currie volunteered to counsel the youngsters, with such success that the charity has created a Coach of the Year Award this year to celebrate their input.

Demonstrating the growing popularity of the competition, this year has seen a remarkable 25% surge in registered participants, covering 30 out of Scotland’s 32 local authorities. Additionally, there is a 17% increase in the total number of schools registering for the contest. Competition organisers and financial educators, Future Asset, believe that being female should never be a barrier to progressing in a chosen career and the contest introduces senior schoolgirls to potential careers in investment, showing how working in the sector can change the world for the better and give young women valuable, transferable skills.

With more girls than ever before taking part, the judges faced the tough task of whittling the shortlist down to nine teams who will battle it out in the competition’s firstever live final to be crowned winners in junior and senior contests in March.

Dorothy Hamilton, Scottish President CISI and Senior category Judge for the Growing Future Assets competition commented, “Judging the Future Assets Competition for the first time was immensely rewarding. The entries’ high quality reflected the effort invested by all those involved. My favourite aspect was evaluating the video submissions, where the enthusiasm not only showcased learning but also the fun the participants had.”

This year’s candidates competing for the top spot in the senior 16-18 year age group are pupils of Lossiemouth High School (Moray); North Berwick High School (East Lothian), Preston Lodge High School (East Lothian); Wellington School (Ayr) and Oban High School (Argyll & Bute)

Hoping to take the honours in the junior 14-16 year category are girls from: Broxburn Academy (West Lothian); Calderside Academy (South Lanarkshire), Mearns Castle High School (East Renfrewshire) and Oban High School (Argyll & Bute).

On the morning of the 1st of March in their first ever live final, teams from the junior and senior categories will compete for the prize of being the winner of the Growing Future Assets Investment Competition 23/24 plus £1,000 for their school for the senior winners and £800 for the juniors.

Afterwards, all the finalists will be invited for lunch at the Edinburgh City Chambers, where they will announce the winners and award prizes to the different categories including overall winners for Juniors and Seniors, runners up, Best ESG case and Best Elevator Pitch plus the new award for 2023/24 for the Coach of the Year.

Helen Bradley, Future Asset CEO says “This year’s competition has reached unprecedented levels of quality, with a remarkable surge in enthusiasm from the younger participants and unwavering dedication from their teachers and coaches...”

“Witnessing the growing interest, especially in state schools, underscores the profound impact of this contest, connecting aspiring individuals with the vast opportunities that a career in investment management can offer. It is truly inspiring to witness the doors opening for youngsters who may not have had prior exposure to the industry, showcasing the boundless potential that awaits them.”

For more information visit https://www.futureasset.org.uk/

FRIDAY 15TH NOVEMBER

The Chester Hotel, Aberdeen

The Athena Awards are a celebration of the incredible women entrepreneurs and leaders who are making a significant impact in the business community of Aberdeen. We firmly believe that their accomplishments deserve to be acknowledged and celebrated. By recognising these women, we hope to inspire others and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in business.

The Athena Awards will take place on Friday 15th November 2024, showcasing and celebrating the achievements and contributions of outstanding women entrepreneurs and leaders in the region.

Categories

Inspirational Woman of the Year

This Award showcases creative talent and celebrates a woman who has made an outstanding impact on the business landscape in Scotland. The nominated woman will have to display outstanding achievements in their field of work along with evidence of supporting the community she works within.

Women in Law

This Award showcases creative talent and celebrates a woman who has made an outstanding impact on the business landscape in Scotland.

Women in PR, Marketing & Communications

This Award showcases women who work hard to ensure their clients or stakeholders have excellent PR, Marketing and Comms across all media platforms.

Women in the 3rd Sector

Sponsored by QA Vehicle Solutions

This Award showcases women who work in the challenging 3rd Sector environment

The Health, Wellbeing & Lifestyle

This Award showcases women who work within the health, fitness, personal coaching or supports everyone in their lifestyle (eg., interior design, home staging, etc.)

Women in Business Support & Consultancy

This Award showcases women who work as self employed Consultants supporting individuals in areas such as IT, Business Coaching, etc.

The Rising Star

This Award showcases a young woman who is taking the local area by storm and is one to watch!

Women in Finance

Sponsored by Buchan Wealth Management

This Award showcases creative talent and celebrates a woman who has made an outstanding impact on the business landscape in Scotland. This category includes women working across all areas of Law including Property.

The Hospitality, Food, Drink & Tourism

This Award showcases women who work in the broadest hospitality industry sector.

WOMEN IN HAIR, BEAUTY & FASHION

Sponsored by Bloom

This award recognises and showcases the creative talent in Scotland and recognises a woman who has made an outstanding impact on the business landscape in Scotland.

Situated in the heart of Belmont Street, Aberdeen, The Cavern is private hire bar, perfect for Birthdays, Staff Events, Networking, Stag-Dos, Hen-Dos, cocktail making workshops and more!

Hire comes complete with a private bar, karaoke machine, projector and more.

To enquire; e-mail Dylan Jones barbookings@siberia-aberdeen.com

BWC Books to Read

Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. by Brené Brown (#1 NYT bestsellers)

Brené Brown’s latest book, “Dare to Lead,” builds on her previous bestsellers by providing practical guidance on how to implement key concepts like courage, vulnerability, and empathy in leadership. She emphasizes that leadership is not about power or titles, but about recognizing and nurturing the potential in people and ideas. Brown argues that in a world defined by fear and uncertainty, cultivating courage skills is essential for effective leadership.

Drawing on two decades of research, she offers actionable strategies and real-world examples to help readers develop these skills and create cultures of bravery within their organizations. Brown’s message is clear: choosing courage over comfort is challenging but ultimately rewarding, and it’s essential for making a meaningful impact as a leader.

No More Sh*t Managers: Seven steps to a coaching culture

by Jo Wright

Sick of bad managers? Want work to be better? Struggling to start? This book is your guide. Learn to impact culture, support managers, and drive change. Jo Wright, a change leader, shows how coaching can transform organizations.

Discover how to:

1. Get leaders on board with coaching.

2. Equip managers with coaching skills.

3. Strengthen relationships, build trust, and boost performance.

It’s not just another dull business read—it’s the key to long-term workplace improvement. Say goodbye to bad management and hello to a coaching culture. Start now.

Little Black Book by Otegha Uwagba

The Sunday Times bestseller Paperback

‘Little Black Book is THE book of the year for working women with drive’ Refinery 29

The essential career handbook for creative working women.

‘A compact gem’ Stylist

Little Black Book: A Toolkit For Working Women is the modern career guide every creative woman needs, whether you’re just starting out or already have years of experience. Packed with fresh ideas and no-nonsense practical advice, this travel-sized career handbook is guaranteed to become your go-to resource when it comes to building the career you want.

Writer Otegha Uwagba (one of Forbes European 30 Under 30) takes you through everything you need to build a successful self-made career: from how to negotiate a payrise to building a killer personal brand, via a crash course in networking like a pro, and tips for overcoming creative block. Plus Little Black Book is full of indispensable advice on how to thrive as a freelancer, and an entire chapter dedicated to helping you master the tricky art of public speaking.

With contributions from trailblazing creative women including acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Refinery29 co-founder Piera Gelardi, The Gentlewoman’s Editor in Chief Penny Martin, and many more, Little Black Book is a curation of essential wisdom and hard-won career insights. Whether you’re a thinker, a maker, an artist or an entrepreneur, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for your working life here.

The One to Watch

Louise West founder of Bake Box highland on a mission to bring her passion for baking with local residents.

An Inverness local’s postal bake box delivery service is on hand to provide Highland residents with a selection of handmade sweet treats. Bake Box Highland uses premium, locally-sourced and quality ingredients to create its curated range of products, which include Nutella chocolate brownies, red velvet white chocolate cookies and salted caramel shortbread.

Louise West, founder and owner of Bake Box Highland, started baking as a teenager when she helped her mum and dad out in the kitchen. With a background in the food, drink and hospitality industry, and with encouragement from friends and family, Louise set up Bake Box Highland in May 2023, on a mission to bring her passion for baking with local residents.

Louise accessed a suite of start-up support from Business Gateway to help start her business, including one-to-one guidance from a dedicated adviser, as well as advice on her business plan, company regulations and funding.

Thanks to signposting from Business Gateway, Louise also accessed a start-up grant from the UK Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which helped her purchase

the office equipment she needed to get started. Louise is now on a mission to turn her online business into a physical one, and has set up a crowdfunding campaign to fund a catering van that would allow her to cater for the local community at various events.

Louise West, founder and owner, Bake Box Highland, said: “If it wasn’t for the help and support from Business Gateway, I wouldn’t be in the position that I am in now. The support I received and the help with my business plan demonstrated that I had a viable business idea, and my adviser was really encouraging throughout the process.

“I am really looking forward to celebrating my first Valentine’s Day as a business owner, and hope the range of handmade goodies prove popular with the locals.” Dianne Swanepoel, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Everyone loves a sweet treat at this time of year, and whether you’re celebrating with a significant other, friends, or treating yourself, Bake Box Highland is on hand with its delicious goodies.

“I’ve really enjoyed supporting Louise over the past year, and watching her vision become a reality.”

Business Gateway offer a range of professional resources, support and tools to help businesses and those in business learn new skills, create new opportunities and develop sustainable strategies for growth.

Business Gateway is delivered by local authorities throughout Scotland. Business Gateway works in collaboration with a wide variety of organisations, including Scottish Government, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, to help deliver the best advice and support to Scottish businesses.

www.thebakeboxhighland.co.uk

INVOLVE HR

Involve HR has grown to become an illustrious consultancy led by Scottish business women with a team of 10 experienced HR professionals working collaboratively to deliver pragmatic innovative HR solutions across industry and sector.

OUR SHARED AMBITION IS TO DELIVER SOLUTION FOCUSED HR CONSULTANCY ACROSS SECTOR AND INDUSTRY, NURTURING BUSINESSES TO ACHIEVE THEIR ASPIRATIONS.

AT INVOLVE HR, WE OFFER A RANGE OF HR SOLUTIONS:

HR Interim (Onsite or Virtual)

Retained HR

HR

Management Training

To find out more, please contact us at info@involvehr.co.uk or visit www.involvehr.co.uk.

WE CONCENTRATE ON YOUR HSEQ & HR. YOU CONCENTRATE ON YOUR BUSINESS. www.quenshspecialists.co.uk

The Archie Foundation exists to transform experiences and outcomes in healthcare and bereavement for local babies, children and their families.

How you can help

Everything we do is made possible thanks to generous, voluntary contributions and fundraising efforts of both you and our local community. Whether you are in need of Archie's support or looking to make a difference either individually or through your company, we're here for you every step of the way.

We provide emergency funding for families tailored support for bereaved child en We'

Our main services

Emergency grants for families

Bereavement support for children

Support at the Neonatal Unit

Funding of specialist equipment

Making the hospital environment less clinical and more child friendly