Theatre school principal scoops businesswoman award

Owner of Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow has won a Best Businesswoman Award.

The Best Businesswomen Awards have announced their winners for 2023, all fantastic examples of exemplary female entrepreneurs and Shelley Otway won in the children and families category.

The business climate has continued to test the resilience of entrepreneurs, and these determined women have continued to drive their businesses forwards.

The judging panel was impressed by the creativity, tenacity and excellent business acumen demonstrated in the selected finalists. The Best Businesswomen Awards are designed to recognise the achievement of female entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries, all of who are excelling in their chosen field.

Local businesswoman Shelley Otway was up against nine other businesses!

The judges said “Shelley has built a well-established business inspiring children at all levels. She provides great opportunities for children who love to dance and perform as a career. An outstanding business!”

Debbie Gilbert, the organiser of The Best Businesswomen Awards, said:

“This is the nineth year of these prestigious awards, and despite extremely difficult trading conditions businesses have faced over the past few years these businesswomen have powered forwards.

“Our judging panel, all business experts, were impressed by the quality of the entrants. All our finalists and winners are all shining examples of being successful entrepreneurs who have proved their success to our judges.”

Shelley said: “The evening was so special and to win was honestly the icing on the cake afterhaving the true VIP treatment at a gorgeous hotel. I was so proud that all of my little stars oftomorrow can also benefit from this with special treats from me next week!”

The theatre school was launched in 2015 for children aged three-and-ahalf to 17 to help develop and encourage a love of performing arts, build confidence, build friendships and improve social skills.

With the support of an amazing team of talented teachers and highly experienced principal Shelley, they have weekly classes in Wokingham and Woodley.

Lessons can be taken in jazz, tap, singing, musical theatre, ballet, private singing, commercial and street dance. They have a specialist troupe and have lots of performing opportunities including a bi-annual show in a professional theatre and a trip to perform at Disneyland Paris every three years.

The gala final was held at the Hilton Wembley on 22nd September where the Gold Winners of each category were announced, Shelley being one of just 10 gold winners.