Platinum Business Magazine - Issue 141

platinum THE LARGEST CIRCULATION BUSINESS PUBLICATION IN THE UK ISSUE 141

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THE BIG STORY

LEGAL PRIORITIES FOR 2026 SAVING FOR RETIREMENT MOTORING 2026 model previews TRAVEL The secrets of the UK

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11/11/2025

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ISSUE 141

CONT ENTS

BIG STORY

26 María Corina Machado The noted campaigner for democracy in Venezuela, who was barred from running for president, and who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025

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BUSINESS

FINANCE

16 Kreston Reeves The company’s response to the Sustainability Reprting Standard consultation

12 Gatwick Airport Championing local businesses and new routes

20 Southover Wealth How much should you be saving for your retirement?

8 National news A round up of important business stories from around the world

14 Crawley Innovation Centre A look around the recently-opened facility in West Sussex

22 FRP Corporate Finance Practical resilience: strengthening your business in uncertain times

10 Local news A look at the business news stories across the South East

24 Benchmark Financial Planning Taxation to hit an all-time high by 2030 in the UK

EVENTS

38 MDHUB Harnessing the four-day week

NEWS

R R Y

36 Central South Business Awards 2026 Next year’s premium event is now open for entries

6 Platinum Club Fun and laughter from the Platinum Club’s Christmas gathering at The Grand Brighton last month

42 Base Insurance What does 2026 hold for business insurance?

44 Sussex Cricket Announcing the new under 25s membership scheme

TRAVEL

48 Forget Stonehenge...

Tess de Klerk takes a whistle-stop tour around some of the UK’s more unlikely tourist destinations

MOTORING

52 Get your kicks on Route ‘26 Maarten Hoffmann previews some of the automotive highlights due to hit the roads this year

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46 Cleankill New year, new career in pest control?

LEGAL

18 DMH Stallard Top ten legal priorities for business owners in 2026

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34 Mayo Wynne Baxter Private financial dispute resolution hearings: a practical alternative to court delays

All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit. Platinum Business Magazine is owned and published by Platinum Media Group Limited.

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Our focus is you Outstanding legal advice for individuals, families and businesses.

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WELCOME

WELCOME As we all see another year raise its head, we all equally hope for a great business year despite government attempts to tax business out of existence.

Let’s succeed just to spite them.

In the first issue of the new year, Benchmark Financial Planning explain how taxation has hit an all-time high, DMH Stallard offer a run down of the legal priorities for business owners, FRP Advisory advise how to strengthen your business in uncertain times and MD HUB discuss harnessing the four-day week.

London Gatwick demonstrate how they support local businesses and reveal exciting new routes for 2026.

The Big Story looks at the 2025 Nobel Prize winner, María Corina Machado.

With great hopes to take over the Presidency of Venezuela, a certain orange gentleman from the USA has put paid to those hopes – for now.

Travel seeks out the hidden gems of the island we live on, and Motoring looks at Motoring looks at some of the exciting new models that will appear on a forecourt soon.

A Happy New Year to all our readers.

The Platinum Team

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CONTACTS PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Maarten Hoffmann maarten@platinummediagroup.co.uk COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR: Lesley Alcock lesley@platinummediagroup.co.uk EVENTS DIRECTOR: Fiona Graves fiona@platinummediagroup.co.uk TR AVEL EDITOR: Tess de Klerk tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk PL ATINUM MOTORING EDITOR: Maarten Hoffmann maarten@platinummediagroup.co.uk DYNAMIC MOTORING EDITOR: Fiona Shafer fionas@platinummediagroup.co.uk HEAD OF DESIGN / SUB EDITOR: Alan Wares alan@platinummediagroup.co.uk

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NEWS HIGH STREET RETAILERS ENTER ADMINISTRATION

FTSE TOPS 10,000 FOR THE FIRST TIME

High street retailers Claire’s and The Original Factory Shop are being put into administration, risking 2,500 jobs. It comes amid a turbulent time for Claire’s, popular with tweens for its brightly coloured accessories, which was seeking a buyer after its US owner filed for bankruptcy last year.

Modella Capital, which owns both chains, said the retailers would enter insolvency proceedings across the UK and Ireland. It is hoped the administration will give them breathing space to find a new buyer. Modella said tough trading conditions and “alarming” low Christmas trading left both in a “vulnerable” position.

Claire’s has 154 stores and 1,355 staff, while The Original Factory Shop has 140 stores and 1,220 staff.

The FTSE 100 index has climbed above 10,000 points for the first time, passing a significant stock market milestone, on the first trading day of the year. Shares included in the index performed strongly in 2025, leaving the benchmark more than 21% higher than a year ago, when it stood at just over 8,260.

It set a new record, reaching 10,046 points before dropping back and closing the day at 9951. Despite much talk of high stock valuations in the US over the past year, the London index outperformed the major American indexes in 2025. Shares in British brands such as Currys and Next rose steeply alongside gains for precious metal miners, defence and financial services companies.

NATIONAL NEWS PCs TO GET MORE EXPENSIVE The cost of PC devices could be forced up in 2026 because the price of RAM, once one of the cheapest computer components, has more than doubled since October 2025.

The tech powers everything from smartphones to smart TVs to medical devices. Its price has increased due to the explosive growth in data centres that power AI, which also require RAM. That’s caused an imbalance between supply and demand, which means everyone has to pay more.

Manufacturers often swallow small cost increases, but big ones tend to be passed on to consumers.

“We are being quoted costs around 500% higher than they were only a couple of months ago,” said Steve Mason, General Manager of CyberPowerPC, which builds computers.

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NEXT ANNOUNCES BUMPER FESTIVE PERIOD SALES

Fashion retail chain Next has raised its profit forecast after reporting strongerthan-expected sales over the key Christmas period. However, the retailer warned that UK sales were unlikely to grow as quickly this year, partly due to rising unemployment which is set to weigh on consumer spending. Next said full price sales in the nine weeks

to December 27th were up 10.6% compared with a year earlier, which was a bigger rise than it had predicted. The bumper festive sales means the retailer now expects to report annual profits of £1.15bn, slightly ahead of its previous estimate. It is the fifth time Next has increased its profit forecast in the past year.

❛❛ Luck can be what you have left over after you gave 100%. ❜❜ Langston Coleman

ENERGY BILLS RISE AGAIN Energy bills are rising for millions of households in England, Scotland and Wales as the new year begins, following Ofgem’s increase to the price cap. Prices for those on variable tariffs are rising by 0.2%, the equivalent of a £3 annual increase for a household using a typical amount of gas and electricity. Campaigners say this means billpayers are facing another winter of high energy prices, with the latest increase coinciding with the coldest period of the year. However, changes announced in the Budget should mean a fall in the cost of energy from April.

NEWS POTHOLE-RELATED CLAIMS LEAP 90% SINCE 2021 Pothole compensation claims made to councils in Britain rose by 90% between 2021 and 2024, according to analysis by the RAC motoring group.

The study also found that only a quarter of motorists’ claims in 2024 resulted in payouts. However, the RAC

noted that the number of claims fell in 2024 compared with 2023. The Local Government Association (LGA) said “ever-increasing pressure” on budgets was affecting councils’ abilities to fix roads. In contrast, the Department for Transport said the government was

SHOPPERS LEAVE IT UNTIL THE END OF THE DAY

OCTOPUS ENERGY SELLS AI DIVISION

Figures show a “big surge” in shoppers heading out later in the day during the post-Christmas sales, according to retail analysts. Footfall figures revealed UK High Streets were down 1.5% on 2024, while shopping centres saw a 0.6% fall, according to data from MRI Software. However, crowds after 5pm made up for the slow start. Susannah Streeter, an independent retail analyst, said: “We saw a big surge.

With numbers increasing by 4.4% for that time compared to 2024, clearly people wanted to go out and enjoy themselves.” Analysts believe this is why so many more people came out in the evenings and later in the day over the weekend.

spending £7.3bn over the next four years on improving road surfaces.

Potholes have become a major bugbear for many drivers. Repair bills can be costly, and they can also cause injuries to passengers, cyclists or pedestrians.

Octopus Energy is set to offload its Kraken Technologies arm as a standalone company after a deal to sell a stake in the platform valued it at $8.65bn (£6.4bn).

The energy giant, Britain’s biggest gas and electricity supplier, has sold a $1bn stake in the AI-based division to a group of investors led by New Yorkbased D1 Capital Partners.

The move paves the way for Kraken to be demerged from Octopus and for a potential future stock market

flotation of the business.

Octopus founder and chief executive Greg Jackson told the BBC there was “every chance” Kraken would list its shares “in the medium term”, with the flotation location “between London and the US”.

❛❛ Politics (n): ‘Poli’ a Latin word meaning ‘many’; and ‘tics’ meaning ‘bloodsucking creatures’. ❜❜ Robin Williams

UK HOUSEBUILDING REMAINS STAGNANT Britain’s construction sector continued to shrink in December, as housing, commercial and civil engineering activity suffered sharp falls again.

Data provider S&P Global has reported that activity across the UK construction sector, and new orders, both fell again last month. It says there is anecdotal evidence that fragile confidence among clients had hit workloads, and that delayed investment decisions ahead of the Budget in November had hurt sales. However, business activity expectations for 2026 rebounded to a five-month high, which suggests that budget uncertainty has lifted.

EVs SET TO OUTSELL DIESEL CARS BY 2030

CASTROL SOLD TO US INVESTMENT FIRM BY BP

Battery electric cars are poised to overtake diesels on UK roads by 2030, according to analysis that also suggests London will be the first UK city to go diesel-free.

BP has struck a $6bn (£4.4bn) deal to sell a majority stake in its motor oil division Castrol to a US investment firm. The oil giant sold a 65% stake in Castrol, which makes lubricants for cars, motorcycles and industrial vehicles, to New York-based Stonepeak. The deal valued Castrol at $10.1bn (£7.5bn), with BP receiving $6bn in cash, which it will use to pay down debts and allow it to focus on its core business. BP will hold onto a 35% stake in Castrol, which it first took control of in 2000. The Londonbased oil major said the sale is a “milestone” in its plans to overhaul its business and strip out costs.

The number of diesel cars on Britain’s roads in June had fallen to 9.9m in June last year, 21% below its peak of 12.4m vehicles, according to analysis

by New AutoMotive, a thinktank focused on the transition to electric cars. Electric car sales are still growing rapidly, albeit more slowly than manufacturers had expected.

However, the transition to cleaner vans is lagging behind cars, and the number of diesel vans has continued to rise, to a record 4.4m.

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NEWS GRANTS AVAILABLE TO HELP WITH LIVING COSTS Residents with low incomes in the Tandridge District Council catchment area can request a grant to help with living costs. Eligible households without children can apply for £125, while those with children can request £225. The council said applications would be processed on a first-come, first-served basis and would close once all the money had been allocated.

Those who apply for other grants, such as Surrey County Council’s e-voucher household support fund, can still receive funding from Tandridge. Unlike the county council’s e-voucher scheme, Tandridge said it would deposit cash into people’s bank accounts, giving them greater flexibility over how the money is used.

WORTHING TECH START-UP RECEIVES NATIONAL PRAISE An app offering discounts for Sussex residents has been named as one of the best tech start-ups in the UK. Closr, created by Worthingbased entrepreneur Nathan Hobden, placed fourth in the UK for Best Tech Startup at the recent Small Business Awards in Birmingham. The app is free to use and offers discounts with independent

LOCAL NEWS ❛❛ When a mosquito lands on your testicles, you learn that violence isn’t always the answer. ❜❜ Proverb

PORTSMOUTH BUCKS TREND With high streets across the country struggling with dwindling footfall, a new study has found that Portsmouth is bucking the trend. The study by Excite OOH has listed Portsmouth as having the fifth healthiest high street in the UK, behind Plymouth, York, Edinburgh and Dundee. The ranking was based on factors such as business opening, closures, vacancy rates, weekend and night-time activity and retail jobs per 100,000 residents.

Portsmouth was listed as having a “strong and active high street” with a “healthy balance” between shop openings and closings. The study found, “The city experiences moderate business turnover, with 12.9% of shops opening (16th) and 10.5% closing (27th), showing a healthy balance between new arrivals and existing businesses staying put.

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businesses across Sussex, including bars and restaurants.

It is a not-for-profit enterprise, and aims instead to champion independent businesses and venues, created by Hobden and his father in a bid to protect local high streets.

FLIGHTS UP The number of passengers passing through UK airports was the most ever seen on any Christmas Eve since records began in 1972, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said. Over 335,000 people flew into or out of the UK, up 5% from Christmas Eve in 2024.

Heathrow catered for 152,000 passengers on Christmas Day. EasyJet said 558 flights departed on Christmas Day, part of “its busiest festive season ever”. Meanwhile, Stansted Airport said Christmas Day was relatively quiet for it. The busiest single day of the festive period for air travel was Friday December 19th.

COLLEGE OFFERS NEW MARKETING COURSES Marketing is constantly evolving industry, creating new roles and opportunities for young people with the right skills. From September 2026, East Sussex College will be launching a brand-new T-Level in Business and Marketing at its Eastbourne campus. This course has been developed in response to what students are telling us they want, and what employers are looking for - a practical, careerfocused route into a fast-growing industry. As one of the Government’s original T-Level trailblazer colleges, East Sussex College has been at the forefront of technical education since T-Levels were first introduced nationally in 2020. This new pathway builds on that experience, combining high-quality teaching with industry insight.

NEWS COUNTY TOURISM WORTH £4BN Experience Sussex, the official visitor economy development programme for East and West Sussex, has released research revealing the significant value of tourism to businesses in the region.

The Economic Impact of Tourism in East and West Sussex report shows that in 2024: • 50.6 million trips by visitors generated more than £4.06 billion for the local economy in East and West Sussex*

PALACE PIER UP FOR SALE

•T he number of overseas visitors staying in East and West Sussex increased by 21% on the previous year* •O vernight visitors contribute more per person to the visitor economy than day trippers* •5 .4 million overnight stays contributed £1,384 million •4 5.1 million daytrips contributed £1,599 million •9 11,000 overseas staying visitors contributed £356.5 million

The owner, The Brighton Pier Group, has appointed Knight Frank to seek a buyer for the Grade II* listed pier. Extending approximately a third of a mile into the English Channel, the 127-year-old pier is one of the UK’s four most visited tourist attractions, welcoming 3.9m visitors in 2025.

Anne Ackord, chief executive officer of The Brighton Pier Group Limited, said: “The proposed sale of the pier forms part of our strategy to divest our leisure assets and return capital to shareholders. Offers are being invited. The average annual revenue is £15m.

* These figures do not include Brighton & Hove.

SUSSEX COMPANY BEST FOR AIRPORT CAR PARKING – AGAIN

Family-owned and Sussex-based business Airport Parking and Hotels (APH.com) has triumphed once again, winning ‘Best Company for Airport Parking’ at the prestigious British Travel Awards (BTA). This remarkable milestone marks the company’s 15th consecutive win, firmly securing APH as the industry leader. Taking place at Grosvenor House in London on December

8th, the event brought together leading names from across the travel sector. APH’s Managing Director, Nick Caunter, received the award from Neil Swanson, Managing Director at TUI, in front of an audience of 800 guests.

The British Travel Awards remain the UK’s largest consumer-voted travel awards and are considered one of the most prestigious accolades to win.

GOLF CLUB GIVEN NOTICE TO MOVE Ifield Golf Club in West Sussex has been told it must close in 2027 to make way for 3,000 new homes, subject to planning approval.

Homes England, which bought the land on which the Crawley-based club is located in 2020, has given notice to Ifield’s management that the club will need to leave its site

by April 2027.

membership just a few months to mark the milestone before departing the site. The club currently has 500 members across all categories and 50 social members.

Ifield was founded in 1927 and is due to celebrate its centenary in 2027, giving the club and its

❛❛ Always give 100%, except when you’re giving blood. ❜❜ Anon

NEW APPOINTMENT ON UNIVERSITY PANEL Brighton & Hove businessman Kyriakos Baxevanis, a double alumnus of the University of Brighton and a wellknown figure in the city’s business community, has been appointed chair of the advisory board for the University of Brighton’s School of Business and Law. Mr Baxevanis is the owner of Nostos restaurant, Little Jasmine Spas, and founder of Brighton Hive.

He said: “The Advisory Board is about providing strategic insight and acting as a catalyst for impact. My priority is ensuring that employers recognise the exceptional graduates Brighton produces, particularly in Law and Business Management, and actively seek them out.

NESCOT CEO AWARDED MBE Julie Kapsalis, Chief Executive & Principal at Nescot, has been awarded the MBE for ‘services to Economic Development’ in the King’s New Year’s Honours List.

She posted on LinkedIn that it’s, “An absolute honour to have been awarded an MBE. Thanks to everyone who made it possible - especially my family. Felix was only one year old when I first joined

the board (it wasn’t easy!)”

Julie is long-term supporter of Platinum magazines and events, and we offer her our heartiest congratulations on a very well deserved award.

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BUSINESS

CHAMPIONING LOCAL BUSINESS AND NEW ROUTES

London Gatwick connects the South East to global opportunity London Gatwick is strengthening its position as a gateway for trade, tourism and investment, with new airlines, expanded long-haul connectivity and a strong commitment to regional prosperity.

EXPANDING GLOBAL CONNECTIVITY London Gatwick is entering 2026 with significant momentum, as the airport continues to grow its route network and attract major carriers. This growth is not only offering more choice for passengers – it’s supporting economic opportunities for businesses across the South East.

In March, Jet2 will make London Gatwick its newest base, marking the largest new airline launch at the airport this century. The UK’s third-largest airline will operate six brand-new Airbus A321neo aircraft, including five based at London Gatwick, flying to 29 destinations across Europe and the Mediterranean.

The move will create more than 300 direct jobs, alongside hundreds more through the wider supply chain. The A321neo fleet also delivers the best-inclass sustainability benefits, reducing CO2 emissions per seat by over 20% and cutting noise by 50%, reinforcing the airport’s commitment to responsible growth.

Long-haul connectivity is also on the rise. Norse Atlantic Airways recently launched its first UK–Asia route, with a

four-times-weekly service to Bangkok.

This milestone comes as demand for Asian travel has grown sharply, with routes to China and Singapore up 16% year-on-year this summer and Central Asia traffic increasing by 25% in the same period. London Gatwick now offers 61 weekly services to Asia, supporting both leisure and business travel across the region.

Meanwhile, connectivity to the Middle East is set to strengthen further. From March 29th, Air Arabia will operate the UK’s only direct service to Sharjah, UAE, with twice-daily flights on Airbus A321LR aircraft. This addition will bring London Gatwick’s total Middle East offering to 80 flights per week, meeting surging demand and supporting vital trade links across the Gulf region.

❛❛ In March, Jet2 will

These developments reflect the airport’s strategic focus on long-haul growth, ensuring businesses in the South East have access to key global markets. Almost 60 airlines now fly from London Gatwick to more than 220 destinations worldwide, including more than 50 long-haul routes.

make London Gatwick its newest base, marking the largest new airline launch at the airport this century. ❜❜ Africa is another success story. Air Peace has added Abuja to its network, complementing its popular Lagos service and giving Gatwick passengers direct access to 21 African destinations.

The airport welcomed a record-breaking summer for African travel in 2025, with more than 670,000 passengers flying to the continent – a 9% increase on 2024.

Alongside major international developments, London Gatwick also continues to play a vital role in sustaining regional connectivity. The airport recently welcomed Skybus as the operator of the Public Service Obligation (PSO) route between Cornwall Airport Newquay and London Gatwick, following Eastern Airways entering administration.

This daily, year-round service is subsidised by the Government and Cornwall Council due to its economic importance, ensuring businesses and communities in Cornwall remain connected to the capital.

As Skybus transitions to a 78-seat turboprop aircraft and increases to twice-daily flights early this year, the route will help maintain confidence in the region’s business and tourism sectors – demonstrating the airport’s dedication to supporting both regional and wider UK economies.

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BUSINESS

CHAMPIONING REGIONAL PROSPERITY Beyond its global reach, London Gatwick continues to play a pivotal role as a key anchor for the regional economy.

At the London Gatwick Economic Summit in November, attended by more than 200 regional stakeholders, the airport reaffirmed its role as a catalyst for growth, highlighting initiatives such as the Gatwick Region Airport Economic Zone (AEZ) and its support for West Sussex’s new economic strategy.

unlocking new trade routes to powering innovation and job creation, London Gatwick is proud to play a key role in the region’s prosperity.”

As a partner of the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIoT), London Gatwick celebrated the completion of the SSIoT’s Crawley campus last October. This new site acts as a major skills hub, helping to shape the region’s future workforce.

Local sourcing remains a priority, with the airport’s ongoing support of Natural Partnership CIC’s Sussex Six campaign bringing 32 regional products into London Gatwick’s restaurants, bars and shops. Events such as the recent Meet the Local Producer initiative – bringing together 35 of the region’s upcoming and leading food, drink and homeware producers with airport retailers, restaurants and hotels - demonstrate a persistent drive from London Gatwick in supporting local SMEs and promoting sustainability.

Pierre-Hugues Schmit, Chief Executive, London Gatwick, said: “London Gatwick is not only a gateway to the world – it’s a key catalyst for regional growth. From

This was also highlighted by the airport welcoming its first local business, Sknfed, to a newly designed retail carousel unit at the North Terminal in

Pierre-Hugues Schmit

October. The family-run company, born in Thornton Heath, is known for its ethical, organic skincare products made with natural ingredients and sustainable packaging.

In December, the airport welcomed Discover London, a new store concept from Lagardère Travel Retail in the South Terminal. The 94sq.m. space features a curated selection of British heritage brands and locally sourced products from Sussex, blending national labels with authentic regional finds.

London Gatwick’s continued investment in global connectivity and regional partnerships underscores its role as more than an airport – it’s a driver of growth, innovation and opportunity.

By expanding routes, supporting local businesses and championing sustainability, London Gatwick is helping the South East thrive on the world stage while staying rooted in its community.

LEADERSHIP FOR THE FUTURE To support this growth, Jonny Macneal has been appointed as the new Head of Aviation Development, effective January 5th. Jonny brings extensive experience from Edinburgh Airport, where he led a successful post-pandemic recovery and expanded its route portfolio. His appointment signals London Gatwick’s commitment to building strong airline partnerships and delivering sustainable connectivity for the future.

www.gatwickairport.com

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BUSINESS

Innovation centre opens to help Sussex entrepreneurs grow their A new innovation centre that helps ambitious entrepreneurs grow their businesses has opened in the Manor Royal Business District in Crawley, West Sussex, and is now inviting Sussex businesses to explore its unique offering.

Crawley Innovation Centre helps small businesses at the start-up stage, scaleups, or long-established innovative companies thrive and excel by providing a flexible, community environment with modern offices, workshop areas, and vital one-to-one business mentoring support.

Keen to especially help businesses working in cleantech, emerging digital tech or advanced engineering, the Crawley Innovation Centre is situated five minutes from London Gatwick Airport, providing unrivalled access for international business.

Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,

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the centre features 24 high-quality offices, seven light industrial workshops for prototyping, product testing and demonstrations, as well as co-working and hot desking spaces, meeting rooms, event hire space and access to regular on-site networking events.

More than just a workspace, Crawley Innovation Centre also provides a unique package of business guidance via oneto-one expert mentoring from the Centre’s Innovation Director. At no additional cost to businesses, tailored specialist innovation strategy support can range from attracting investors to navigating the funding landscape to business growth strategies and marketing.

The Centre is led by Shelley Furey, Centre Manager, who oversees day-today operations and is the first point of contact for any business interested in joining the community. Shelley brings extensive experience in supporting lo-

cal businesses and is passionate about creating an environment where entrepreneurs feel supported, inspired and equipped to grow.

Shelley Furey comments: "Crawley has an incredible concentration of innovative companies, and we’re excited to welcome businesses into the centre.

As we start this journey, my team and

BUSINESS

Crawley Innovation Centre team: Rob Brindlow, Shelley Furey, Carrie-Ann Sell, Fiona Anderson

p ambitious r businesses I are focused on creating a supportive, collaborative environment where entrepreneurs can access the right connections, expertise and facilities from day one. I’m looking forward to meeting new members of our community and helping them make the most of what we offer."

Crawley Innovation Centre is owned by

Crawley Borough Council but managed

by Oxford Innovation Space, the UK’s largest operator of innovation centres, supporting more than 1,000 early-stage and scale-up businesses across a network of 30+ centres in the UK and Ireland.

Jo Stevens, Managing Director of Oxford Innovation Space, comments: “Our new site in Crawley is a brilliant opportunity for us to build on what is already a fantastic melting pot of entrepreneurship in the area. We believe that by creating flexible, inspiring environments that feature sound business support and opportunities to network and collaborate with peers, a business has a greater chance of succeeding. We can’t wait to see all the business success stories that Crawley Innovation Centre will have.”

Councillor Michael Jones, Leader of Crawley Borough Council, said: “I am delighted that Oxford Innovation Space is managing the Crawley Innovation Centre. They are a nationally recognised leader in managing innovation centres and will bring deep expertise in business incubation and operational excellence. We warmly welcome them to Crawley.”

Crawley Innovation Centre, Crawley Business Quarter, Fleming Way, Crawley, RH10 9QL To book a tour or for further information, visit www.crawley-ic.co.uk or email info@crawley-ic.co.uk

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FINANCE

By Jennifer Williamson, Accounts, Tax and Outsourcing Partner and Dan Firmager, ESG Advisor, Kreston Reeves

Our response to the UK Sust Reporting Standards consult Enhancing transparency in sustainability reporting and building trust through robust assurance are critical to driving meaningful change.

To achieve this on a mass scale, the introduction of clear, proportionate standards is essential. The UK Sustainability Reporting Standards (UK SRS) represent a major step toward embedding sustainability into corporate reporting and aligning businesses with the UK’s long-term climate and social goals.

We believe these standards can transform how companies disclose sustainabilityrelated financial information if implemented thoughtfully.

That’s why we’ve submitted a comprehensive response to the government’s consultation, which you can read in full here:

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In this article, we share the key views that shaped our response and explain why we believe the UK SRS, combined with a strong assurance framework, can deliver the transparency, accountability, and trust that stakeholders demand.

BROADLY SUPPORTIVE, BUT NOT WITHOUT RESERVATIONS We agree with the direction of travel and support the implementation of UK SRS. Aligning sustainability disclosures with financial reporting timelines will enhance usability and comparability for stakeholders. It is also clear that the UK is taking a pragmatic approach, giving businesses time to refine processes before tackling broader sustainability topics.

However, our support is not unconditional. There are areas where we believe the proposals fall short: • Scope 3 emissions: We strongly believe these should be included from year one. Many economically signifi cant entities already calculate these emissions, and without their inclusion, progress on value chain engagement and transition planning will stall.

• Profession-agnostic assurance: We oppose allowing unregulated providers to deliver sustainability assurance.

This risks undermining quality and public trust.

• Use of Independent Assurance Services Providers (IASPs): We do not support their inclusion in the assur-

ance regime, as it creates an uneven playing field and compromises assurance quality.

BENEFITS BEYOND COMPLIANCE Adopting UK SRS will deliver tangible benefits: • Better decision-making: Linking sustainability and financial data provides stakeholders with a clearer picture of long-term risks and opportunities.

• Consistency and comparability: A unified framework reduces the cur-

FINANCE

advantage. Standardised reporting enhances competitiveness in supply chains and prepares businesses for future global requirements.

stainability tation

CHALLENGES AND SUPPORT NEEDS Introducing UK SRS is a positive step, but it won’t be easy for every business.

Many organisations, especially SMEs, will find it challenging to collect accurate data, particularly for Scope 3 emissions. These requirements can feel complex and time-consuming without the right tools and guidance.

Cost is another big concern. Businesses will need to invest in new systems, staff training, and assurance services.

For smaller companies, these costs could be significant. There’s also a risk of duplication if existing frameworks such as SECR and TCFD are not streamlined alongside the UK SRS. To make this transition manageable, we recommend: • Clear, sector-specific guidance and templates to make reporting simpler.

• Government-backed grants or incentives to help cover training and technology costs.

• Better clarity on what data SMEs will be asked for by customers and supply chains.

• A phased approach and pilot programmes so businesses have time to adapt.

Without this support, reporting could become a tick-box exercise rather than a meaningful step toward sustainability ambitions.

rent patchwork of requests from customers and the variety of reporting methods. This should reduce the administrative burden on companies.

• Investor confidence: High-quality disclosures improve access to capital and strengthen trust.

• Cultural shift: Embedding sustainability into governance fosters resilience and innovation.

Ultimately, UK SRS adoption is not just a regulatory obligation; it’s a strategic

ASSURANCE: BUILDING TRUST IN SUSTAINABILITY DISCLOSURES High-quality assurance is critical to the credibility of sustainability reporting.

We support the creation of a UK registration regime for sustainability assurance providers, aligned with ISSA 5000 standards. However, we strongly oppose a profession-agnostic approach that allows unregulated providers to operate without the ethical, technical and quality safeguards applied to statutory auditors. Assurance demands

❛❛ The UK SRS

represent a major step toward embedding sustainability into corporate reporting and aligning businesses with the UK’s long-term climate and social goals❜❜ more than subject-matter expertise. It requires professional scepticism, independence, and robust quality management.

In the long term, we advocate for mandatory assurance of UK SRS disclosures, starting with public interest entities and large private companies, and moving toward reasonable assurance as the market matures. This will protect against greenwashing and ensure stakeholders can rely on sustainability information with the same confidence as financial statements.

LOOKING AHEAD The UK SRS represents a significant opportunity to lead on sustainability reporting. By balancing ambition with proportionality and by supporting businesses through clear guidance and phased implementation, these standards can drive meaningful change across the economy.

Find out how we can help you prepare for UK SRS and sustainability assurance requirements by contacting Jennifer Williamson, Accounts, Tax and Outsourcing Partner, or and Dan Firmager, ESG Advisor Call: +44 (0)33 0124 1399 Email: enquiries@krestonreeves.com Visit: www.krestonreeves.com

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LEGAL

Simon Bellm, Partner, Employment

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Jonathan Grant, Partner & Head, Corporate Law

Ingrid McCleave, Partner, Business & Personal Tax

James Picknell, Partner, Real Estate Dispute Resolution

Samanth Partner, F Law

LEGAL PRIORITIES BUSINESS OWNERS

With significant changes on the horizon for 2026, it is essential for businesses to stay informed. From new legislation and the post-Budget impact on cash flow to preparing strategically for the year ahead, there is a lot to consider.

Our legal experts have compiled a list of ten key resolutions that business owners should keep in mind to help protect both their business and themselves.

1

Review and update employment contracts and policies. Train managers to prepare for those Employment Rights Act provisions that will be implemented in 2026, including: • Day one rights to apply for flexible working and entitlement to SSP, paternity leave and parental leave.

• Duty to take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment of employees and to prevent harassment by third parties.

• Increased protective award in cases of a failure to consult collectively in relation to large-scale redundancies or TUPE. • Reforms to “fire and rehire” practices.

Simon Bellm, Partner, Employment

2

Review succession planning ahead of April 5th 2026 if you have a family or a privately owned company.

Business Property Relief exemption from Inheritance Tax on all trading business assets reduces to £1m (includes shares).

Jonathan Grant, Partner & Head, Corporate Law

If you wish to benefit from business assets relief at 14% rather than 18%, consider selling or gifting now, rather than after April 6th 2026, when the rates go up.

Ingrid McCleave, Partner, Business & Personal Tax

3

Review your business leases to protect your business premises and continuity.

Renewing a business lease involves more than just agreeing to new terms.

It is a time-sensitive process governed by strict rules, so you must take expert advice early to maintain a strong position when negotiating new terms so that you don’t miss key notice periods or deadlines, which can weaken your

With many changes afoot in 2026, businesses ❛❛ must keep abreast of post Budget impact on their cash flow, and prepare their business for the year ahead. ❜❜

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John Yates, Partner & Head, Commercial Law

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negotiating position, or even cost you your right to renew.

James Picknell, Partner, Real Estate Dispute Resolution

4

Review and update all auto-renewal clauses in your consumer contracts to ensure compliance with new consumer protection rules.

New rules around auto-renewal in consumer contracts, as introduced by the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024, will come into

LEGAL

a Jago, Family

Sara McGrigor, Partner, Private Client

Derek Pickard, Head of Commercial Debt Recovery

Frank Bouette, Partner, Restructuring and Insolvency

David Bailey, Partner, Commercial Dispute Resolution

S FOR S IN 2026 6

business owners, it is commercial. It is not just about divorce or separation; it is about safeguarding your business.

The earlier you plan, the more control you retain.

Samantha Jago, Partner, Family Law

effect in 2026 (Spring 2026, at the earliest). Non-compliance could lead to unenforceable contracts, legal challenges and/or reputational damage, impacting cash flow and customer trust.

John Yates, Partner & Head, Commercial Law

5

Take early legal advice on how your family/relationship situation could affect your company.

Prevention is better than litigation.

Family law may feel personal, but for

Have a Power of Attorney to deal with business assets.

For business owners, a separate Business LPA, in conjunction with LPAs to deal with personal affairs and health matters, is often the most effective way to ensure your commercial interests are protected if you can no longer act for yourself. Careful consideration needs to be given to the structure of your business, your interest in it, and whether you should impose restrictions on how your attorney can act.

Sara McGrigor, Partner, Private Client

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Don’t be shy about dealing with debt Businesses should recognise that company debt is not a taboo subject, but rather, one that deserves open discussion to shed light on an issue that is often unspoken, yet increasingly prevalent. Seek expert help early to avoid financial difficulty.

Derek Pickard, Head of Commercial Debt Recovery

8

Prevent insolvent trading by closely monitoring the company’s financial position and cashflow.

Given the government’s focus on growth, coupled with the current economic challenges, focus on a director’s duty to prevent insolvent trading by closely monitoring the company’s financial position and cashflow. Ensure early identification and management of financial issues through regular review and seeking professional advice ear-

Adam Williams, Partner & Head, Immigration

ly. Proactively safeguard the company, its creditors, and stakeholders from insolvency risk, and you, as a director, from personal liability.

Frank Bouette, Partner, Restructuring and Insolvency

9

Mitigate AI litigation risks.

In 2026, implement robust governance for all your AI initiatives. Ensure transparency, document decision processes, and involve legal counsel early. Regularly audit AI outputs for compliance and fairness. Proactive oversight will help protect your organisation from costly disputes and regulatory scrutiny as AI becomes integral to operations. Ensure your organisation leads, not lags, in the AI-powered future.

David Bailey, Partner, Commercial Dispute Resolution

10

Ensure you are compliant with sponsor licensing rules if employing overseas workers.

To avoid the risk of suspension or revocation of your sponsor licence, ensure you comply with all the requirements to prevent illegal workers. Criminal prosecution can arise for employers found to have employed an individual that they knew, or had reasonable cause to believe, were illegal.

Adam Williams, Partner & Head, Immigration

If you need advice on any of the issues raised in this article, please contact us on enquiries@dmhstallard.com

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FINANCE

By William Martin, Managing Director, Southover Wealth

How much should you be saving for your retirement?

We all know we should be saving for retirement, but how much is enough?

It’s a question that clients ask me every week, and the truth is, there’s no single answer.

is one of the smartest decisions you can make. You’ll not only receive tax re-

retire, how much income will you need, and where will it come from? Financial advice becomes particularly valuable here, helping you understand how to draw your pension and other investments tax-efficiently, while ensuring your savings will last throughout retirement.

We all know we should be ❛❛ saving for retirement, but how

Your ideal contribution depends on when you start, how much you earn, and what kind of lifestyle you want later in life. But one thing is universal: the earlier you start, the better your chances of enjoying the retirement you dream of.

much is enough? It’s a question that clients ask me every week, and the truth is, there’s no single answer. ❜❜ Whether you’re 25 or 55, the

As a rule of thumb, aim to have the equivalent of your annual salary saved by age 30, three times that by your 40s, and around ten times your salary by the time you retire.

These figures might sound daunting, but when broken down into consistent, realistic goals, they become achievable.

For most of us, the combination of employer pension contributions, personal savings and tax relief makes building that fund far easier than it first appears.

In your 20s and 30s, time is your biggest ally. Starting early allows your investments to benefit from compound growth, the positive effect of earning returns on your returns.

Even small regular contributions can build into something significant over the decades. If you’re employed, staying enrolled in your workplace pension

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lief on your contributions, but your employer will often top them up too.

By your 40s, your earnings may be peaking and your priorities shifting.

This is the decade to consolidate, review and top up. If you can, increase your pension contributions each year, especially when your income rises or bonuses arrive. Think of it as paying your future self first. A well-structured plan can also ensure that you’re investing efficiently and taking advantage of the right allowances.

Once you reach your 50s and beyond, your focus should move from accumulation to preparation. It’s time to finetune your goals: when do you want to

best retirement plan is one that starts today. The sooner you take control, the greater the freedom you’ll have later in life.

William Martin DipFA CeMAP Managing Director, Southover Wealth Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Tel: 020 8058 8230 | Mobile: 07487 727 498 www.southoverwealth.co.uk william.martin@sjpp.co.uk

Southover Wealth is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Family Law Specialists Call us on 0800 84 94 101 Offices across the South East

www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

FINANCE With recent economic shifts and the Autumn Budget now behind us, Neville Side, partner at specialist business advisory firm FRP, explains how forward-thinking businesses can use this moment to strengthen their foundations and position themselves for sustainable growth

PRACTICAL RESIL

Strengthening your business in unc The past few months have kept business leaders on their toes. Between ongoing economic adjustment, evolving political priorities and November’s Autumn Budget - which introduced measures that will impact both consumer spending and business’ bottom lines – there’s been plenty to navigate.

For many, these measures represent new considerations for business planning. Yet from conversations across our client network, we’ve seen a determination amongst management teams to not just weather these changes, but emerge stronger from them.

Reassuringly, creating stability and building operational resilience doesn’t require complex restructuring or radical transformation. Often, it comes down to strengthening core practices.

COMMUNICATION IS KEY Open, proactive communication consistently proves to be one of the most effective tools for building resilience within a business - yet it’s also one of the most underutilised.

Internally, this means creating space for strategic thinking alongside daily operations. The most resilient businesses build in regular time to step back and examine what’s really driving their performance. For example, is cash flow under pressure because of external factors, or are there opportunities to refine pricing or streamline customer processes?

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This honest internal dialogue helps management teams to stay ahead of challenges rather than constantly responding to them.

External communication also creates similar advantages. Many business leaders worry that discussing challenges openly might damage relationships with banks, landlords or suppliers. In practice, the opposite tends to be true.

Reassuringly, ❛❛ creating stability and

These stakeholders succeed when a business succeeds, and most will actively support those who communicate proactively and demonstrate clear thinking about their path forward.

With around 25,000 companies facing formal insolvency processes annually in England and Wales, management teams can take comfort in knowing that seeking expert guidance is a sign

building operational resilience doesn’t require complex restructuring or radical transformation.

Often, it comes down to strengthening core practices. ❜❜

FINANCE

LIENCE:

certain times

of strong leadership, not struggle. The businesses that communicate with trusted advisors early and consistently have more options and better outcomes.

DEVELOPING FINANCIAL CLARITY Strong financial visibility transforms how businesses navigate uncertainty.

Rather than reacting to surprises, building an extensive picture of final perfor-

mance can allow management teams to make measured decisions backed by clear data.

A rolling 13-week cashflow forecast is perhaps the single most valuable planning tool available to any business. This forward-looking view of incoming and outgoing cash helps you spot opportunities to optimise working capital, make informed decisions about investments and plan with confidence.

Following the Budget, developing this financial clarity is particularly valuable. Understanding precisely how changes to the National Minimum Wage or business rates will affect your business can allow management teams to plan thoughtfully.

This may allow them to identify opportunities to improve productivity, refine their service offering or adjust pricing where appropriate.

nal - strengthens your business rather than diminishing your leadership.

The timing of this support matters too.

Businesses that engage with advisors proactively, using them as sounding boards and strategic partners, consistently achieve better outcomes than those who wait until options become limited.

LOOKING FORWARD Uncertainty will always be part of the business landscape, and new challenges will continue to emerge - but this environment also creates opportunity for businesses that are building strong foundations.

The most ❛❛ successful business

leaders recognise that building resilience is By maintaining open communication and a team effort. ❜❜ financial clarity, and

COLLABORATION IS KEY The most successful business leaders recognise that building resilience is a team effort. Regardless of the type of business, building a team of people who bring different strengths can create a more robust operation.

This might mean engaging external advisors who bring fresh perspectives and specialist expertise or developing your management team’s capabilities across complementary areas. What matters is recognising that asking questions, seeking input and drawing on expertise - whether internal or exter-

collaborating with the right partners, management teams are both protecting their businesses and positioning themselves to seize opportunities that others might miss.

These choices, made consistently, create businesses that can use periods of uncertainty as a launching pad for sustainable growth.

For more info on how FRP can support your business in building resilience, contact Neville Side at neville.side@frpadvisory.com

www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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BUSINESS

By Devin Smith, Regional Director - South, Benchmark Financial Planning

Taxation to hit an all-ti The Chancellor unveiled her latest Budget following weeks of leaks and a high-profile misstep by the OBR that dominated headlines. Cutting through the noise of political spin and media commentary, one fact stands out: taxes are set to climb to unprecedented levels by 2031.

ity - one of the highest sustained levels in modern British history.

Within just five years, the tax burden is forecast to reach 38% of GDP, according to the Office for Budget Responsibil-

Recent government reports show that tax receipts are steadily increasing, driven by income tax, National Insur-

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While this reflects the Government’s need to fund essential public services, it also signals a period where households and businesses will need to think more carefully about their financial planning.

ance, corporation tax, and VAT. Even with measures such as cuts to National Insurance, the overall direction points towards a larger share of national income being collected through taxation.

WHY ARE TAXES RISING? Several factors are contributing to this trend: • Frozen thresholds: With income tax bands frozen until 2031, more people are gradually being drawn into higher

BUSINESS

For those who take the time to plan ❛❛ ahead, the coming years can be navigated

with confidence and resilience. ❜❜

ime high tax brackets.

• Public spending needs: Healthcare, pensions, and infrastructure require sustained funding.

• Economic changes: Shifts in the UK economy, including growth in services and digital commerce, are reshaping the tax base.

• Inflationary effects: Rising prices have boosted nominal tax receipts even without major tax rate increases.

The OBR’s projections suggest that these pressures will keep the tax burden elevated well into the next decade.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU? For households, higher taxation can mean less disposable income and a greater need to make the most of available allowances and reliefs. Businesses, meanwhile, face corporation tax rates that have risen from 19% to 25%, alongside increasingly complex compliance requirements.

This doesn’t necessarily mean financial hardship for everyone, but it does highlight the importance of being proactive.

Families may want to consider how

This doesn’t ❛❛ necessarily mean

financial hardship for everyone, but it does highlight the importance of being proactive. ❜❜

pensions, savings, and investments can be structured to reduce liabilities, while entrepreneurs and small businesses may benefit from advice on managing corporation tax and VAT. GET PROFESSIONAL ADVICE SOONER RATHER THAN LATER In this environment, professional financial advice is becoming more valuable than ever. An adviser can help you to: • Maximise allowances and reliefs so you don’t pay any more tax than you have to.

• Plan for retirement by making the most of pension contributions and tax-efficient savings.

• Structure your company finances to protect profitability.

• Stay informed about policy changes and adapt your financial plan accordingly.

The UK tax system is complex, and even small oversights can have significant

consequences. Professional guidance provides reassurance and helps ensure that financial decisions are aligned with your long-term goals.

LOOKING AHEAD By 2031, the UK will be operating under a tax regime that asks more of households and businesses than in previous decades. While this supports vital public services, it also means individuals and organisations will need to be more thoughtful about their financial choices.

Government forecasts make clear that the tax burden is unlikely to ease signifi cantly in the near future. For those who take the time to plan ahead, ideally with the support of professional advisors, the coming years can be navigated with confidence and resilience.

Approved by Best Practice IFA Group Limited on November 26th 2025.

www.benchmarkcapital.co.uk/en-gb/uk/individual Important information The views and opinions contained herein are those of Benchmark Financial Planning. They do not necessarily represent views expressed or reflected in other Benchmark Financial Planning communications, strategies or funds and are subject to change. This document is intended to be for information purposes only and it is not intended as promotional material in any respect. The material is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument. The material is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, accounting, legal or tax advice, or investment recommendations. Information herein is believed to be reliable, but Benchmark Financial Planning does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The data has been sourced by Benchmark Financial Planning and should be independently verified before further publication or use. No responsibility can be accepted for error of fact or opinion. Benchmark Financial Planning is not responsible for the accuracy of the information contained within linked sites. Reliance should not be placed on the views and information in the document when taking individual investment and/or strategic decisions. Past Performance is not a guide to future performance and may not be repeated. The value of investments and the income from them may go down as well as up and investors may not get back the amounts originally invested.

Issued by Benchmark Financial Planning Limited. An Appointed Representative of Best Practice IFA Group Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, the registration number is 223112. Registered office: Broadlands Business Campus, Langhurst Wood Road, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 4QP. Registered in England and Wales No 07572431.

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BIG STORY

M

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BIG STORY

MARÍA CORINA MACHADO Nobel Peace Prize winner 2025

María Corina Machado Parisca is a Venezuelan politician, activist, and prominent leader of the opposition to the administrations of Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 2025 for her work in promoting democratic reform in her native country.

Platinum reveals her story, culminating in her recent award, against the backdrop of new turmoil in Latin America.

An industrial engineer with a master’s degree in finance, Machado, born in 1967, began her political career as co-founder of Súmate. The organisation was formed in 2001 following a hurried encounter between Machado and Alejandro Plaz in a hotel lobby. Súmate (Spanish for ‘Join Up) is a non-governmental organisation that describes itself as a vote-monitoring group; it has also been described as an election-monitoring group.

Mahado and Plaz had shared their concern about the course being shaped for Venezuela. Machado said, “Something clicked. I had this unsettling feeling that

I could not stay at home and watch the country get polarised and collapse...

We had to keep the electoral process but change the course, to give Venezuelans the chance to count ourselves, to dissipate tensions before they built up.

It was a choice of ballots over bullets.”

Súmate’s espoused values are: • The guarantee of civil and political freedom and rights • Impartial and independent citizen participation in democratic processes • Professional volunteerism with a high level of citizen participation • Organisational transparency and efficacy

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BIG STORY

Other projects are the consolidation of a national network of volunteers, analysis of voter registration, planning and execution of parallel vote counts to strengthen confidence in electoral processes, and educational programmes.

In 2011, Machado launched her candidacy for the 2012 Venezuelan presidential election. The Los Angeles Times said that her name was raised as a potential candidate, and that she was a future presidential contender “who can effectively communicate a vision for a post-Chávez Venezuela that can appeal to enough Chávez supporters”.

talk about respecting the private sector in Venezuela when you’ve been dedicated to expropriation, which is stealing?”

She is the National Coordinator of the political party Vente Venezuela and ran in the 2012 opposition presidential primary, which she lost to Henrique Capriles. During the 2014 Venezuelan protests, she played a leading role in organising demonstrations against Maduro’s government.

In 2006, Súmate’s observations and reports on the 2004 national elections led to the first of many treason charges, mainly over alleged financial issues, including allegations of US funding.

Subsequent hearings were held either in her absence or without her being al- Maria Machado to Hugo Chavez during an election debate

can you talk about respecting ❛❛ How the private sector in Venezuela when you’ve been dedicated to expropriation, which is stealing? ❜❜

lowed any representation.

The trial was ultimately suspended indefinitely, and with them never having re-convened, the charges have effectively been dismissed.

In 2010, she resigned from Súmate, and won an election to serve in the National Assembly of Venezuela from 2011 to 2014.

On January 13th 2012, during an eighthour annual State of the Nation Speech

by Chávez to the National Assembly, Machado confronted him about shortages of basic goods, crime, and nationalisations of basic industries. According to the Associated Press, she “boldly interrupted” Chavez’s speech to accuse him of theft, demanding, “How can you

In 2023, she ran in the opposition presidential primaries. The Maduro administration subsequently barred her from running. She became the main driving force for the main opposition candidate, Edmundo González Urrutia, who was allowed to compete by the Maduro regime.

In May of that year, Machado called for the banning of reelection to political office, said she was in favour of same-sex marriage, supported the legalisation

President Nicolas Maduro (left) and former President Hugo Chavez, both of whom Machado fiercely opposed and campaigned against

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BIG STORY

Shortly after the presidential election, Machado ❛❛ announced that she had gone into hiding, citing fears for her life and freedom under the Maduro government. ❜❜ Machado with Edmundo González, the candidate who Maduro did allow to run, at what was ultimately a premature victory rally in 2024. Nicolas Maduro unilaterally declared himself the winner despite strong evidence the González had won a landslide

of medical cannabis, and called for a national debate on the legality of abortion in cases involving risk to the mother’s life or instances of sexual assault.

after the presidential election, Machado announced that she had gone into hiding, citing fears for her life and freedom under the Maduro government.

In 2023, Machado won the opposition primary to become the unity candidate for the 2024 presidential election.

The Venezuelan government subsequently barred her from running in the election. She named Corina Yoris as a replacement candidate, who was later replaced by Edmundo González.

Machado is openly anti-communist, pro-Conservative and a big admirer of Margaret Thatcher, to whom many commentators have compared (Along the same lines, see also Dynamic Business Magazine’s Big Story on Japan’s first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, last month). In 2011, she campaigned as an advocate of “popular capitalism”, stating: “To defeat Chavista socialism, we must present superior ideas that can inspire millions of Venezuelans.” Machado supports the privatisation of state-run entities in Venezuela, including oil company PDVSA.

The opposition presented a vote count that showed González winning the July 2024 election in a landslide, while the government-run National Electoral Council declared victory for Maduro without presenting evidence. Shortly

In a 2024 interview, Machado discussed making education available for all Venezuelans and of reforming the country’s judiciary. In 2025, appearing virtually at the 2025 edition of Fortune Global Forum, she advocated large-scale privatisation in Venezuela, arguing that more than 500 companies could be privatised, representing an estimated $1.7 trillion in economic opportunity.

NOBEL PEACE PRIZE Machado was named one of BBC’s 100 Women in 2018, and listed among Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2025. In 2024, Machado received the Václav Havel Human Rights Prize and the Sakharov Prize (shared with González) for representing Venezuelans fighting for democracy.

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BIG STORY

In 2025, Machado was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The committee’s citation read: “For her tireless work promoting democratic rights for the people of Venezuela and for her struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.”

first Latin American country to do so.

(Full independence happened in 1830).

The constitution, she said, was written “affirming the radical idea that every human being carries a sovereign dignity.

their families, and all who defend human rights; those who sheltered us, fed us, and risked everything to protect us; the journalists who refused silence, the artists who carried our voice; my exceptional team, my mentors, my fellow political and social activists; the leaders around the world who joined and defended our cause; my three children, my adored father, my mother, my three sisters, my brave and loving husband, who’ve all supported me throughout my life; and above all, the millions of anonymous Venezuelans who risked their homes, their families, and their lives out of love.”

She offered a long narrative, ❛❛ highlighting Venezuela’s place as a nation of sanctuary, growth and togetherness ❜❜

Machado, banned from leaving Venezuela, made her way to Oslo via a circuitous, extremely hazardous route, fearing for her safety. In a journey straight out of a Jason Bourne novel, she ultimately didn’t make it to the awards ceremony in time, so her daughter, Ana Corina Sosa Machado, delivered the Nobel Prize Lecture on December 10th 2025, on her behalf.

She talked of the pride in the birth of Venezuela’s nation, which declared independence from Spain in 1811, the

Machado on the campaign trail, 2024

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This constitution enshrined citizenship, individual rights, religious liberty, and the separation of powers.”

She also offered a long narrative, highlighting Venezuela’s place as a nation of sanctuary, growth and togetherness, while strongly criticising the dictatorships of the 21st century, concluding, “Our political prisoners, the persecuted,

“To them belongs this honour. To them belongs this day.

“To them belongs the future.”

We help turn your spark into reality.

Expert financial advice to ensure your future shines bright Whether you’re looking for ideas on growing your money, planning for retirement or leaving a financial legacy for your loved ones, we’ll guide you with personalised financial planning and investment management, so you can look to the future with confidence.

Speak to us to find out how our ideas can help make your ideas a reality.

Contact our Tunbridge Wells office to arrange an introductory meeting with Paul Cannons.

Call 01892 739580 or email paul.cannons@brewin.co.uk brewin.co.uk/royal-tunbridge-wells

The value of investments can fall and you may get back less than you invested.

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BIG STORY

not without major, increased military intervention. It’s an interesting turn of events for the self-styled ‘Peace President’.

Trump, a sharp critic of the US invasion of Iraq, will now have to heed the words of one of the American architects of the Iraq War, Secretary of State Colin Powell: “If you break it, you own it.”

In the immediate aftermath of this highly internationally-illegal move, Trump offered Machado the ultimate diplomatic praise he could bestow by declaring she had neither the respect nor the credentials within Venezuela, stating she was unfit to run the country. With that kind of endorsement, her credentials seem clear. The farcical irony of Donald Trump not believing Machado should govern following her running partner’s reported landslide victory is not lost on anyone. But farcical irony is the norm with him.

MADURO EXTRACTION Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump indulged in something many of his predecessors have done since the end of World War II – interfering in the internal politics of nations in his backyard. Most pertinently, the US gets involved in nations whose leaders - whether democratically elected or military imposing their own will – are considered ‘left-wing’.

It is against this backdrop that US Special Forces bombed the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, and captured President

That said, technically, Machado didn’t win the 2024 Election; González did.

However, Venezuela would need to have a period of stability before any elections – a ‘coronation’ involving a transfer of power isn’t possible – take place.

Venezuela would need to ❛❛ have a period of stability before

Somewhat perversely, Machado stated, as part of her Nobel Prize acceptance speech, that she admired Donald Trump and felt he should be the recipient of the award in 2026. Bombing foreign countries is probably a good way to preclude someone from that accolade. In short, she was an open advocate of a US invasion of Venezuela.

any elections – a ‘coronation’ involving a transfer of power isn’t possible – take place. ❜❜

In what is an ongoing story, Trump’s excuse for the Venezuela affair was the drug trafficking entering the United States from that country. Given that Venezuela is not the only Latin American nation to be a source of this illegal trade, the probable reality is that Trump is interested in controlling Venezuela’s oil industry. Along the same lines, he has been making overtures towards doing the same to Colombia’s President, Gustavo Petro, as well.

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Maduro and his wife and took them into custody in the US. Trump has unilaterally decided that the US will now govern Venezuela - with no mandate whatsoever until he believes he can ensure a correct and judicious handover.

Given that the people of Venezuela don’t, as a general rule, take this kind of interference lying down, taking control of Caracas may prove difficult, at least

Whether she gets to take her place as the leader of a new Venezuelan future and implement her manifesto isn’t, at present, in her own hands. She would have to go against the wishes of the very person whose invasion she had supported to stake her claim. And we’ve seen what happens when that occurs.

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LEGAL

By Rebecca Robinson, Paralegal, Family & Relationships team, Mayo Wynne Baxter

PRIVATE FINANCIAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION HEARINGS A practical alternative to court delays The decision to end a marriage is never easy, and the legal process that follows can often feel daunting. For many couples, the prospect of lengthy court proceedings adds further stress to an already challenging time. In England and Wales, financial remedy cases are commonly delayed due to congested court lists, meaning hearings can take months to be scheduled.

More frustratingly, the National Audit Office confirmed in May 2025 that 32% of cases held in the Family Courts in England and Wales had at least one hearing cancelled before it took place.

This reality has led to growing interest in an alternative method of resolution. A popular method being a Private Financial Dispute Resolution Hearing (PFDR).

WHAT IS A PRIVATE FDR? A PFDR mirrors the second hearing in standard financial remedy proceedings but takes place outside the court system. At this stage, a privately-appointed judge reviews the parties’ submissions and provides an indication of what the likely outcome would be if the matter proceeded to a final hearing.

Importantly, the judge does not impose a decision; instead, the indication serves as a framework for negotiation.

Following the judge’s guidance, both parties have the opportunity to revisit

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their positions and make revised offers.

If an agreement is reached, it can be formalised into a consent order and submitted to the court for approval.

If negotiations fail, the case will proceed to a final hearing within the court system, where a binding order will be made. Alternatively, par ties can

LEGAL consider arbitration or other forms of dispute resolution. It is worth noting, however, that the majority of cases settle at FDR within the court system, and this is mirrored within the private setting.

WHY CONSIDER A PFDR? The benefits of opting for a private FDR are significant: • Speed and Flexibility. Court delays are a common frustration, with hearings often scheduled months in advance. A PFDR can usually be arranged at short notice, subject to the availability of the chosen judge, allowing parties to progress their case without unnecessary delay.

• Privacy and Comfort. Unlike busy court buildings, PFDRs are typically held in discreet, comfortable venues, offering a more relaxed environment for constructive discussions.

• Expertise. Private judges are often specialists in financial remedy work,

ensuring that their indication is informed by extensive experience in complex financial matters including dealing with businesses and pensions.

This contrasts with the court system, where judges may rotate between financial and children cases.

• Higher Settlement Rates. Statistics by various sources suggest that around 80% of cases settle at or shortly after the FDR stage. A clear judicial indication often provides the impetus needed for parties to compromise and avoid the uncertainty of a final hearing.

• Control Over the Outcome. Reaching an agreement through negotiation is generally preferable to having an outcome imposed by the court. A PFDR gives parties the chance to shape their own settlement.

ARE THERE ANY DRAWBACKS? The main consideration is cost. Unlike court hearings, PFDRs involve a fee for

the judge’s time, which is typically shared between the parties. However, many clients view this as a worthwhile investment given the potential savings in time, stress, and legal fees associated with prolonged litigation.

THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK PFDRs operate within the same principles as court-based financial remedy proceedings under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 and relevant case law.

The indication provided by the judge is based on the statutory criteria, including the welfare of any children, the parties’ financial resources, and their respective needs. While the indication is not binding, it carries considerable weight and often serves as a realistic benchmark for settlement.

IS A PFDR RIGHT FOR YOU? There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

PFDRs are particularly suited to cases where both parties are committed to resolving matters efficiently and are willing to engage in constructive negotiation. They can be especially beneficial in high-value or complex cases, where specialist judicial input is invaluable.

FINAL THOUGHTS In an era of court backlogs and increasing pressure on the family justice system, PFDRs offer a practical, client-focused alternative. They combine judicial expertise with flexibility and privacy, often leading to quicker and more amicable resolutions.

For many separating couples, this approach represents a positive step towards reducing conflict and achieving a fair outcome without the stress of prolonged litigation.

❛❛The National Audit Office confirmed in May 2025 that 32% of cases held in the Family Courts in England and Wales had at least one hearing cancelled before it took place. ❜❜

If you need pragmatic and empathetic advice from one of our experienced family lawyers, please get in touch.

Rebecca Robinson, Paralegal, Family & Relationships team, Mayo Wynne Baxter rmrobinson@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

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BUSINESS

By Millie Green, MDHUB

Harnessing the four-day week The four-day working week is a modern business phenomenon. More organisations and individuals are adopting this approach, backed by findings from national studies. Now, Dr Charlotte Rae at the University of Sussex is conducting a trial to further explore this field.

Dr Charlotte Rae is an academic psychologist. Her interest was piqued after reading Andrew Barnes’ book The Four Day Week, in which Barnes charts his experiences trialling a reduced working week in his business. Despite fewer cumulative hours worked, productivity increased, which seemed counterintuitive, and team wellbeing improved.

Dr Rae explained that, whatever was happening, she realised instantly that it was something to do with brain behaviour.

While previous studies focused almost exclusively on performance, Dr Rae was keen to put wellbeing at the core of her research. Key to this approach was providing focus group sessions to help participants increase their efficiency. She explains, “It’s quite rare in our working lives that we take a moment to step back and reflect, because we are so bogged down in the day-to-day.”

Dr Rae and her team

provide tips, such Participants in ❛❛ as reducing digital the trial reported a distractions and innew planconsistent reduction in troducing ning techniques, to burnout and improved help participants the most out of sleep quality over the get the reduced working hours. Phil Green 12 weeks ❜❜

When Dr Rae first developed the study, she worked with the Sussex Innovation Centre, a business incubator. The university had introduced her to the group as her proposed study had a “clear commercial impact.” It was here she met Helen Bailey, one of MDHUB’s facilitators. Helen signed up for the research and encouraged MDHUB Directors, Fiona Shafer and Phil Green, to take part, too.

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explained that these tips have, for example, stopped him from jumping straight into email first thing, instead of clearing anything he hadn’t finished the previous day.

Participants in the trial reported a consistent reduction in burnout and improved sleep quality over the 12 weeks.

At the same time, engagement with work and goal attainment both rose significantly. They also found they were better able to switch off at the end of the day, rather than ruminating about work well into the evening.

There are several possible reasons for these changes. One is that people are

likely to be engaging in hobbies, spending time with friends and taking exercise classes on their ‘free’ fifth day.

Hobbies are what’s known as recovery activities, where you’re doing something gentle and relaxing that’s different from your work. Recovery activities are key to reducing cortisol in the body, which is strongly linked to sleep. If you’re stressed and you have high cortisol, there isn’t a natural wave through the day.

BUSINESS

Dr Charlotte Rae

This leads to a peak in cortisol in the middle of the night, waking you up prematurely. With reduced stress, increased time to decompress, and lower cortisol levels, participants have reported improved sleep and better engagement at work.

Dr Rae’s study is also collecting data about brain activity by inviting participants to an MRI scan at the start and end of their 12-week trial period. While further analysis is needed, She shared

While previous studies focused almost ❛❛ exclusively on performance, Dr Rae was keen to

put wellbeing at the core of her research. ❜❜

that some early hints suggest a brain signature for the four-day workweek.

Participants have displayed increased activity in the default mode network.

This is the part of the brain that we use when we “go into autopilot” for dayto-day tasks. This is associated with higher creativity and problem-solving ability: “all the thinking has been going on unconsciously at the back of your mind. What the Default Mode Network does is create the literal brain space to access free thinking.”

This has undoubtedly been the case for Fiona, for whom working reduced hours has been a long process: “I loosely trialled the principle of a reduced working week in 2024 and managed to get my six-day working week down to five.

In 2025, having committed fully to four-day week project, I wouldn’t want to return to a full working week. I have worked hard at reprioritising my time, and as a result, I am more engaged creatively and have more headspace.

Some weeks it doesn’t always work, but that’s fine, as that comes with running a business where no two days are the same, but the principle remains firmly in place.”

If you’re curious about the four-day week, you can get free support by joining Dr Rae’s trial, which is open through 2026. Her team is looking for participants interested in introducing a reduced working week. Those who would like to reduce their hours but aren’t yet ready can also apply to join the control group.

Helen explained that through the study, “I’ve learned a lot about my relationship with work, some of it healthy, some of it not. The study has been the push she needed to break a 30-year habit of overworking, and commit to a four-day week. It’s an incredible opportunity to get involved with the university’s expertise. The study forces you to break societal norms, which can be very uncomfortable. Dr Rae is an expert in navigating that discomfort, so take advantage of the support while it is available!”

Find out more about the trial and sign up to participate on the Sussex 4 Day Week trial website. www.mdhub.co.uk

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BUSINESS

By Daniel Stoner, Managing Director, base Insurance Brokers

What does 2026 hold for business insurance?

No one starts the new year thinking, “I wonder what will happen to insurance?”

OK, maybe I do, but most people aren’t giving a great deal of thought about insurance on the first day of January.

Although insurance may not be the first priority once Big Ben chimes, the new year will bring significant changes to the insurance sector, which could have a knock-on effect for businesses. Economic and social shifts mean some insurances may become more important, as well as impacting premium levels.

Below, I’ve broken down the key factors set to shape insurance prices, product trends and risk behaviours over the next year. My conclusions are based on industry forecasts, economic signals and, most crucially, the conversations we’re having every day with clients.

1. INSURANCE PRICES ARE STILL RISING (BUT MORE SLOWLY) The last few years have seen significant upward pressure on premiums.

In 2026, most experts expect prices to keep rising, but at a more predictable

and steady pace. Several factors are driving this: • Higher rebuild, repair and replacement costs. Materials, labour and supply chains have stabilised, but not returned to pre-pandemic levels.

• More extreme weather events. Flooding, heatwaves, storms and water damage continue to increase claim volumes.

• Greater digital risk and higher cyber claims. Insurers are pricing more carefully in light of new loss patterns.

Most businesses should expect modest increases in property, liability and cyber insurance in particular. Keeping the cover up to date will be the best way to control costs. And keep an eye on the valuations of what is being covered.

2. CYBER INSURANCE DEMAND WILL CONTINUE TO SURGE Cyber incidents have risen sharply in recent years, and businesses are becoming much more aware of how disruptive they can be. Businesses are at risk from hackers and can be impacted by stolen data. A significant cyber incident

No one starts the new year thinking, ❛❛ “I wonder what will happen to insurance?”

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can halt operations, damage customer trust, and lead to major legal and financial repercussions.

In 2026, we expect cyber insurance to become: • More widely purchased, especially by SMEs • More detailed and tailored • More tightly underwritten by insurers Before higher limits are offered, businesses will be asked to demonstrate stronger cybersecurity controls, such as multifactor authentication (MFA), and will be expected to have secure backups.

3. NEW AND EMERGING INSURANCE PRODUCTS WILL GAIN TRACTION 2026 is likely to be a year where several specialist products break into the mainstream as risks evolve: a) Business interruption for utilities and supply chain More owners are looking for cover that reflects real-world vulnerabilities such as power outages, broadband failure, infrastructure damage, and supplier breakdowns. Expect demand for more comprehensive business insurance extensions.

BUSINESS

If your business is investing ❛❛ in greener operations, you may need updated cover to match the technology.

❜❜

b) Reputation and influencer-related cover With influencer marketing now a core part of many campaigns, businesses are more exposed to reputational risk.

Specialist cover will be required to cover negative PR and brand damage. Influencer awareness of the need for cover will continue to grow, as we are now seeing regularly at base Insurance. c) AI liability As AI becomes embedded in workflows, businesses are asking: “What happens if AI makes a mistake?” Insurers are beginning to define products covering algorithmic error and data bias, as well as automation-related liability.

4. ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY WILL CHANGE HOW BUSINESSES THINK ABOUT RISK With recession fears still lingering, borrowing costs high, and insolvency rates rising, many business owners are becoming more cautious. When the economic outlook feels uncertain, protection becomes more important.

is that many businesses have outdated valuations. The cost of buildings, stock and equipment has risen significantly, yet their cover often hasn’t kept pace.

Insurers are warning of: • More claims being reduced or partially paid • Greater scrutiny on declared values • A rise in surveys and checks to confirm accuracy A quick valuation review can make a major difference, and it’s often the simplest way to avoid a nasty surprise at the claim stage.

That means increasing interest in: • Directors’ and Officers’ insurance (D&O) • Professional indemnity • Legal expenses • Trade credit insurance • Enhanced business interruption cover

6. SUSTAINABILITY AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE WILL FACTOR INTO COVER Insurers are already adjusting how they assess environmental risk, and this will grow in 2026. This includes: • Higher scrutiny of flood zones • Questions around sustainability credentials • More products designed for green tech, EV fleets and renewable infrastructure

We’re seeing more clients wanting to “protect the downside” as they navigate a challenging landscape.

If your business is investing in greener operations, you may need updated cover to match the technology.

5. UNDERINSURANCE WILL BE ONE OF THE BIGGEST RISKS IN 2026 One of the clearest patterns emerging

IN MY CRYSTAL BALL, 2026 WILL REWARD PROACTIVE BUSINESSES While insurance might not be front of

mind for every owner, there will be shifts in pricing and risk exposure throughout 2026. The businesses that fare best will be the ones who: • Review their policies early • Update valuations accurately • Strengthen cybersecurity • Adapt cover to new and emerging risks At base Insurance, our job is to make this simple. If you’d like to sense-check your protection for 2026 or explore smarter ways to safeguard your business, we’re here to help.

Get in touch and let’s make sure you go into the new year properly protected.

Daniel Stoner Founder / Managing Director of base Insurance Brokers.

Find out more at www.baseinsurance.co.uk 01273 101380 daniel@baseinsurance.co.uk

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EVENTS

Sussex Cricket launches new Under-25s membership Sussex Cricket is delighted to announce that 2026 Memberships and T20 Blast Passes are now on general sale, with exciting new options designed to make supporting Sussex more accessible than ever.

The highlight of this year’s launch is the brand-new Under-25s Membership, offering full access to Sussex home cricket for just £137.50 – half the price of a standard adult membership.

The new category aims to make it easier for young adults and students to enjoy live cricket at The 1st Central County Ground and become part of the Sussex family.

Sussex Cricket’s Director of Growth, Sam Graham, said: “We’re committed to building the next generation of Sussex supporters. The new Under 25s Membership makes high-quality county cricket affordable and accessible for younger fans, whether they’ve grown up watching Sussex or are new to the sport.”

Memberships for the 2026 season include a host of benefits, such as: • Access to all home Men’s County Championship matches • Entry to Men’s and Women’s home group Metro Bank One Day Cup fixtures • Exclusive access to the Spen Cama Pavilion • Priority access to T20 Blast tickets • Discount on Adult T20 Blast Passes

For full details and to purchase your 2026 Membership, visit www.sussexcricket.co.uk/2026-membership or to find out more about T20 Blast Passes visit www.sussexcricket.co.uk/2026-t20-blast-passes

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• Member events, discounts, and voting rights • Complimentary quarterly Members’ magazine Supporters can also secure their T20 Blast Pass now for guaranteed entry to every Men’s and Women’s home T20 fixture in the Vitality Blast – one of the most exciting competitions in world cricket.

PEST CONTROL

By Paul Bates, Managing Director, Cleankill Pest Control

New year, new career in pest control?

Perhaps my favourite kind of person is the one who thinks they can do your job better than you can. You know the type, the Harry Enfield character who just knows they would make a brilliant pest controller.

It seems to me they are often just bored in their own jobs, and they assume what we do is easy because all they see is us checking the occasional bait box. It isn’t uncommon to be asked if we have any jobs available. The answer is nearly always ‘no’.

Good pest control technicians are highly trained and have to cover a wide variety of roles. We see too many unqualified companies in dodgy vans who think it’s a case of spraying pesticides around the place.

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Also, ‘pest controller’ isn’t a single job.

There are a variety of roles that come under that umbrella – technician, field biologist, service management, training and quality assurance. I feel fortunate that Cleankill employs some amazing pest controllers, and that’s down to constant training and development.

So, what do I think makes a suitable candidate for a good pest controller?

Organised You need to be smart and tidy. You also need a vehicle that doesn’t look like it has been through a warzone

and is well organised. Customers need to trust their pest controllers, and that isn’t going to happen if you look a mess.

Honest and truthful Integrity is a large part of our job. Sometimes customers ask you to do things that are unsafe, against company policy or even illegal.

A good pest controller will resist, but in a nice way. These situations can be turned into a positive if you truly know your stuff and can give the client a suitable, legal alternative.

Reliable We often work alone, and this

Perhaps my favourite kind of person is the ❛❛ one who thinks they can do your job better than you can. ❜❜

PEST CONTROL

that ignore reviews ❛❛orBusinesses fail to engage with them are missing a huge opportunity ❜❜ isn’t for everyone. Today, tracking devices are used to keep account of vehicles, so the unreliable ones don’t last for long. Customers are the most important people – if you make an appointment, you have to be there on time.

‘Pest controller’ isn’t a single job. There are a ❛❛ variety of roles that come under that umbrella –

Practical Not everyone is MacGyver, but you do need a modicum of practical intelligence to do this job. Because we focus on prevention, not destruction, we must be able to work out how pests are entering a property and then ‘proof’ them out. Oh, and did I mention the bags of pigeon waste you sometimes have to remove by hand!?! It isn’t for the faint-hearted.

but it does happen. You have to be the calm professional who is there to deal with the problem.

Discreet People can be embarrassed or concerned about pest problems. For example, bed bugs are becoming a major problem. Imagine you are a hotelier who calls us in to deal with a potential problem; they don’t want that knowledge getting around because it could destroy their business.

Professional Not everyone deals with a pest problem rationally. It’s rare that we get Tom-and-Jerry levels of hysteria,

technician, field biologist, service management, training and quality assurance. ❜❜

Knowledgeable Obviously, you’ll get training. We train all our pest controllers to a minimum of RSPH Level 2 – you’ll be amazed at what you need to know to pass that. In addition, you need to be constantly on top of new developments and techniques.

Safe – for the client, their family and animals, for you and for the general public. Recklessness, in any area, is not acceptable in modern pest control. The consequences can be devastating.

One of the things that makes me proud of Cleankill is the quality of employees we have. Constant training and development play their part, but we are also looking for the right kind of person. We

have one of the best teams in the industry, but what keeps us there is a desire to constantly improve. It’s what drives all of us, from pest control technicians to directors. No one is perfect, but we can all strive to be better.

Award-winning Cleankill Pest Control specialises in providing commercial and residential pest control services across London, Surrey, Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, Bucks, Bristol and the rest of the country.

For further information, go to www.cleankill.co.uk or call 0800 056 5477

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TRAVEL

Forget Stonehenge and the Tower of London Kinloch Castle, Isle of Rum A remote Edwardian mansion built from pink sandstone and known for its faded grandeur. Its ornate interiors and stark contrast with the surrounding wild landscape give it a slightly haunting charm.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow A grand red sandstone building known for its eclectic galleries.

From Dalí to natural history, its collections are often described as lively, varied and very much part of Glasgow’s cultural heart.

The Dark Hedges A striking natural avenue of beech trees planted in the 1700s. Visitors often comment on its atmospheric light and twisting branches which create one of the UK’s most photographed landscapes.

Buttermere Infinity Pool, Lake District A small hilltop pool said to offer spectacular panoramic views across the fells. Photographers and hikers often call it one of the most rewarding hidden spots in the Lakes.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall A once-forgotten estate that has become a celebrated botanical attraction. Its subtropical jungle valley, giant earth sculptures and shaded pathways are said to create an almost dreamlike escape from the everyday.

Minack Theatre, Cornwall A hand-carved open-air theatre set into the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. Its stone terraces and ocean backdrop are said to create a performance setting like no other.

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TRAVEL

By Tess de Klerk So, you think you’ve seen most of it. Buckingham Palace, Edinburgh Castle, Tate Modern and on we go. Perhaps you’re feeling slightly bored with home-grown travel and needing inspiration? The thing is that travel becomes more interesting when we look beyond the big names and the UK has plenty of alternatives to the tourist hot spots.

I’ve searched high and low for Brits’ most rat-

ed off-the-beaten-path places and it has made me realise how much the UK has left to discover. Here is my list of twenty. I’ll be aiming to visit one a month over this year.

These places prove that the UK is far from finished when it comes to discovery. There is always another hidden path, another view that surprises you and another story waiting just out of sight.

The Forbidden Corner, Yorkshire One of Britain’s most eccentric attractions, reportedly filled with twisting tunnels, trick doors and surreal sculptures. Originally built as a private folly, it is known for catching guests delightfully off guard at every turn.

The Deep, Hull A striking modern aquarium overlooking the Humber. Walk-through tunnels, dramatic tanks and strong conservation messaging make it a favourite for those interested in marine life. It is often praised for its educational depth.

Bletchley Park, Buckinghamshire Celebrated as the wartime headquarters of the Enigma codebreakers. The restored huts, personal artefacts and working machinery reportedly offer a vivid sense of the secrecy, pressure and brilliance that defined the site.

Chapel Down, Kent Considered one of England’s leading vineyards with award-winning sparkling wines. Guests often mention the peaceful vineyard trails, pretty gardens and relaxed tours that showcase the best of English wine country.

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TRAVEL

Glasgow Necropolis A vast Victorian cemetery rising above the city. Visitors speak of atmospheric pathways, elaborate mausoleums and sweeping views from the hilltop. It is known for its blend of architecture and quiet drama.

Tongue Pot, Lake District A series of clear natural pools fed by waterfalls on the River Esk. Wild swimmers often describe its emerald water, smooth rock shelves and secluded feel as some of the best in the area.

Portmeirion A surreal coastal village with pastel houses, ornate architecture and subtropical planting. Reportedly inspired

by Mediterranean towns, it carries a playful sense of escapism that feels unexpected in North Wales.

Dolgoch Falls, Wales A chain of gentle waterfalls reached through mossy woodland. Known for its calm atmosphere, shaded paths and natural beauty that unfolds gradually along the walk.

St Fagans National Museum of History, Wales One of Europe’s leading open-air museums.

More than forty historic buildings from across Wales have been rebuilt here, creating an immersive timeline that visitors describe as engaging and insightful.

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TRAVEL

These places prove that the UK is far from ❛❛ finished when it comes to discovery. There is always another hidden path, another view that surprises you and another story waiting just out of sight. ❜❜

Gaping Gill Cave, North Yorkshire A colossal natural cavern with a waterfall that plunges almost 100 metres into darkness. Visitors who descend during the annual winch events describe it as one of Britain’s most dramatic underground sights.

Kinder Downfall, Peak District The highest waterfall in the national park. Known for its unpredictable nature, especially on windy days when the water is blown back upwards creating a striking and unusual spectacle.

Natural History Museum, Tring Often described as a wonderfully unusual museum, created from Walter Rothschild’s private collection. The Victorian taxidermy, rare birds and beautifully preserved displays are said to give it the feeling of stepping into an eccentric collector’s archive.

Buddhapadipa Temple, Wimbledon A serene Thai Buddhist temple in leafy Wimbledon. Ornate wood carvings, reflective ponds and peaceful gardens make it a surprising oasis said to offer rare calm in the capital.

Ramsgate Tunnels, Kent A sprawling network of wartime tunnels beneath the seaside town.

Guided tours reportedly offer moving stories of the families who sheltered here during heavy bombing raids.

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MOTORING

GET YOUR KICKS ON ROUTE ’26 Looking forward to 2026/27, we have a raft of new models coming to market so we thought we would give you a sneak preview of some of the highlights you can expect to see on forecourts soon. By Platinum Motoring Editor, Maarten Hoffmann 3. BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT SUPERSPORTS

The Bentley Continental GT Supersports is basically a muscle car for the gentry. It ditches the latest Continental GT’s hybrid tech and uses pure twin-turbo V8 muscle, with all 657bhp it produces sent exclusively to the rear wheels.

2. ASTON MARTIN VALHALLA

This will be the first series-production mid-engined road car in the British brand’s 112-year history. Just 999 examples will be made, powered by a bespoke 4.0-litre twin-turbo, flat-plane V8 engine and a pair of electric motors. Total power output is rated at 1,069bhp and 1,100Nm of torque – enough to propel the car from 0-62mph in 2.5 seconds

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MOTORING

1. ALPINE A390

The Alpine A390 is designed to look like a “racing car in a suit”.

It may be based on the same platform as the Renault Scenic, but it is available with a bespoke tri-motor powertrain that delivers 464bhp and torque vectoring for more agile handling. The 0-62mph sprint can be dispatched in as little as 3.9 seconds, and prices are expected to start from around £60,000.

4. BMW iX3

The all-new, second-generation BMW iX3 represents the beginning of a bold new era and a quantum leap forward for the Bavarian brand. But the iX3 isn’t just impressive on paper with a world-leading 500-mile range, and it’s available to order now, starting from less than £60,000.

5. DENZA B5

The premium technology-focused sister brand of BYD arrives in the UK this year to rival the LR Defender, and one of the three models it’s bringing to our shores is the plug-in hybrid Denza B5 4x4, producing 677bhp. Plus, the company will be launching its own charging network, offering lightning-fast speeds supposedly at an incredibly affordable price.

7. FIAT PANDA FASTBACK

Fiat’s dream of building an entire family of Pandainspired models will start to become a reality this year. If that’s not your style, don’t worry, because Fiat is also launching a chunky mid-size SUV nicknamed the GigaPanda, which should have the unashamedly boxy shape as the Grande Panda but with more space inside.

6. DS NO 8

The DS No8 represents the start of a new era for the premium brand DS, which is refusing to throw in the towel in its fight against the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes. It also promises an enormous range of up to 466 miles, and with prices starting from just over £50k, it significantly undercuts potential rivals, including the Polestar 4 and Audi Q6 e-tron.

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MOTORING

8. GENESIS GV60 MAGMA

The Genesis GV60 Magma is the classier sister car of the exhilarating Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, and the first model from the luxury brand’s new performance and motorsport division. The Alpine A390 rival spits out 641bhp, enabling it to hit 62mph in just 3.4 seconds, and features a virtual gearshift system to provide a more engaging driving experience. However, the GV60 Magma is expected to cost between £75,000 and £80,000, making it more expensive than a Porsche Macan Electric.

9. HONDA 0 SERIES SALOON

Honda has been behind the curve with electric cars for a long time now, but that’s all about to change. The 0 Series isn’t just one car, it’s a diverse range of no fewer than seven brand-new EVs that the Japanese brand plans to launch in rapid succession over the next few years.

11. KIA EV2

The new Kia EV2 will be the latest, smallest and most affordable member of the brand’s highly regarded EV line-up yet. What you see here is the EV2 Concept presented last year, and we’re confident the road-going version will look almost identical. The chunky little electric crossover will rival the Renault 4, the next-generation Nissan Juke and the forthcoming Skoda Epiq, among many others. Around 300 miles of range seems possible, as does a starting price of around £25,000.

10. JAGUAR FOUR-DOOR GT

It’s about time this big Jag was let out of the bag. Never mind that it was supposed to be revealed last year, the Jaguar four-door GT is on track for a blowout summer reveal. So even though we still don’t know what the emperor’s new EV will be called, the four-door GT’s design will take its lead from the polarising Type 00 concept, while underneath the skin are a bespoke EV platform called the Jaguar Electrified Architecture and a tri-motor powertrain offering around 1,000bhp.

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MOTORING

12. MERCEDES AMG GT XX

The as-yet-unnamed apex predator will be AMG’s most powerful and advanced super-saloon ever, featuring a trio of bleeding-edge axial-flux motors developed by British firm Yasa. These should produce around 1,000bhp – almost as much as the F1-derived AMG One hypercar.

13. PORSCHE CAYENNE ELECTRIC

Underneath, the Cayenne Electric uses the same PPE platform and 800V architecture as the Macan Electric, but benefits from an even bigger 113kWh battery that provides nearly 400 miles of range and can be charged wirelessly. You simply park over a special charging pad to top-up the car, with no cables required. It pumps out a colossal 1,139bhp and 1,500Nm of torque. Prices start from £130,900.

14. RIVIAN R2

Pioneering American EV start-up Rivian, maker of the world’s first all-electric pick-up truck, will finally enter the UK market in 2027, but not with a truck. Its first model sold here will be the Rivian R2: an electric mid-size SUV that’ll rival the Tesla Model Y, among many others.

15. TOYOTA GR GT

This is the Toyota GR GT, and it’s the most jaw-dropping car we’ve seen in quite some time. Much like the Lexus LFA and Toyota 2000 GT that came before, the GR GT is a completely bespoke creation that started as a clean sheet of paper. Its twin-turbo cross-plane-crank 4.0-litre V8 is brand new, and works with an electric motor to reduce any lag, plus deliver a combined 641bhp peak power figure and 850Nm of torque.

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An all-electric future with the smart #1 and #3.

Illustration purposes only.

Now available to test drive at smart of Epsom.

Sometimes a trip is about the journey, sometimes the destination. Who you’re bringing, what you’re packing, where you’re headed: every day is different. So you need a car as flexible as you are.

With a maximum range of 273 miles for the #1 (WLTP)* and 283 miles for the #3 (WLTP)** and with a less-than-30-minute charging time^, you’ll always be quickly and confidently on your way back home, or off to your next adventure.

To book a test drive, please scan the QR code or contact the team at smart of Epsom on 0330 178 1801.

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sandown-group.co.uk smart of Epsom

Weston Road, Epsom, KT17 1JG * Electricity consumption combined in kWh/100 miles | kWh/100 km: 29.3 | 18.2 (BRABUS), 27 | 16.8 (Premium), 28 | 17.4 (Pro+), 29.3 | 18.1 (Pro),29.1 (WLTP); Combined CO2 emissions in g/miles | g/km: 0; Electric range (WLTP) in miles | km: 248 | 400 (BRABUS), 273 | 440 (Premium), 260 | 420 (Pro+), 193 | 310 (Pro). **Electricity consumption combined in kWh/100 miles | kWh/100 km: 28.3 | 17.6 (BRABUS/ Pulse), 26.2 | 16.3 (Premium/Edition), 27 | 16.8 (Pro+), 27,7| 17,2 (Pro) (WLTP); Combined CO2 emissions in g/miles | g/km: 0; Electric range (WLTP) in miles | km: 258 | 415 (BRABUS/ Pulse), 283 | 455 (Premium / Edition), 270 | 435 (Pro+), 202 | 325 (Pro) ^ The charging time of the battery may vary depending on various conditions such as different ambient and battery temperatures, available power and other restrictions (e.g. local legal regulations, technical standards, unbalanced load limits), as well as the use of the remote control function (e.g. remote controlled air conditioning, preheating of the vehicle, etc.). With a 3-phase power supply, you can charge at up to 22 kW and go from 10% to 80% SOC (State of Charge) in just 3 hours under optimal conditions (except with the for smart #1 Pure, Pro und smart #3 Pro, which is are only available with 7.4 kW a single-phase onboard charger that technically allows for a maximum charging power of 7.4 kW and requires 5.5 hours to do so). With a DC fast charging station, you can even charge at up to 150 kW (smart #1 Pure, Pro und smart #3 Pro: 130 kW) and go from 10% to 80% SOC in 30 minutes under optimal conditions.

ISSUE #56

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR WOMEN

Entrepreneurship insights DYNAMIC COLUMNISTS Alex Bailey

What happens when women run the show?

How AI will strengthen human connection

Self-care in business TRAVEL Bazaruto Island

Pippa Moyle

My favourite word is ‘no’

Laura Hearn

Are we losing our way?

Natalie Montagnani

Make 2026 your best year yet

MOTORING Cupra Terramar

THE BIG STORY

THE RT HON & RT REV

DAME SARAH MULLALLY THE FIRST FEMALE ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY

CONTENTS

ISSUE 56

Sisters. ❛Mothers. ❛ Friends.

Professors.

When women affirm women, it unlocks our power. It gives us permission to shine brighter.”

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THE BIG STORY

DAME SARAH MULLALLY For the first time in 1,429 years, the Archbishop of Canterbury is a woman. Dynamic chronicles her rise within the Anglican church

News

6 Upfront: The top international news stories involving women in business 14 In the Right Direction: Good news stories from around the world

Finance

8 Kreston Reeves Is starting a business on your New Year’s Resolution list?

28 Spotlight Focusing on Suzie Thompson and Amy Wonnacott – two women who deserve more recognition than they current receive 30 Entrepreneurship insights Lessons from launching and scaling a business successfully 32 From the ‘Great Resignation’ to the ‘Great Re-entry’ Women who left their work roles during Covid are now going back

Regulars

Features

4 Dynamic Awards 2026 Offering you a unique sponsorship opportunity

PLATINUM MEDIA GROUP

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38 Gudiya Dagur Patel Your business depends on self-care

Art

40 Art ‘Clay Paintings’ – Kellie Miller on the works of Isobel Merrick

Further Reading

36 Dr Samantha Hiew Human-first neurodiversity – cultivating understanding, not just awareness 42 Bazaruto Island Tess de Klerk explores the astonishing archipelago off the coast of Mozambique

12 The Laura Hearn Column Are we losing our way? Laura on how best to ‘keep it human’

18 The Natalie Montagnani Column Let’s make 2026 our best year yet

Wellbeing

Travel

10 The Alex Bailey Column How AI will strengthen human connection at work in 2026

16 The City Girl Column My favourite word is ‘no’. Don’t be afraid to use it

Elaine Welteroth Author, Journalist, Editor & Television Host

34 34 Namibia What happens when women run the show?

Events

26 Dynamic Awards 2026 Back for their fifth year, the premier awards for women in business is open for entries

Wine & Dine

46 Taro A new Japanese experience in the heart of Brighton

Girl Torque

48 Cupra Terramar Fiona Shafer of MDHUB struggles with liking Spain’s new offering

What’s On

50 A brief snapshot of what’s on in Sussex and Surrey

All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit. Dynamic Magazine is owned and published by Platinum Media Group Limited.

EDITOR’S NOTE Welcome to another brand new year.

No big bang necessary. Most of us are not walking into January with a perfect plan and endless energy - and that’s fine. What matters is moving forward with the wisdom gained last year, being honest about what works for us and being brave enough to face what no longer does.

That sense of focus runs through this issue of Dynamic. Our Big Story features Dame Sarah Mullally, the first woman to become Archbishop of Canterbury. Her story is not about symbolism alone but about leadership built steadily over time, shaped by service, empathy and conviction. It’s a reminder that progress and commitment run hand in hand.

Our regular columnists explore themes that feel especially relevant right now. Alex Bailey looks at how AI can strengthen human connection at work when used thoughtfully. Laura Hearn asks what happens when we rely too heavily on technology to do our thinking for us and why trusting our own judgement and intuition is paramount. And urgent. Pippa Moyle writes candidly about learning to say ‘no’ and how that shift can be quietly powerful. Natalie Montagnani sets out a clear and motivating way to approach the year ahead, with confidence and momentum.

Further on in Dynamic, we look at the shift of power in Namibia toward a female-led nation, the realities facing women-led businesses and why self-care needs to be treated as a professional priority, not an indulgence. There’s also space, as always, for fabulous food, travel and culture, offering perspective alongside inspiration.

This month I’ll sign off with Natalie Montagani’s words, “Let this be the year you trust yourself more deeply, back yourself more boldly and rise more intentionally. Your best year yet begins now… let’s go!”

Editor, Dynamic Magazine tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk

CONTACTS

PUBLISHER: Maarten Hoffmann maarten@platinummediagroup.co.uk EDITOR: Tess de Klerk tess@platinummediagroup.co.uk MOTORING EDITOR: Fiona Shafer fionaas@platinummediagroup.co.uk COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR: Lesley Alcock lesley@platinummediagroup.co.uk EVENTS DIRECTOR: Fiona Graves fiona@platinummediagroup.co.uk HEAD OF DESIGN / SUB EDITOR: Alan Wares alan@platinummediagroup.co.uk

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FE ATURE

BE PART OF THE SUCC A unique sponsorship oppo

N

ow in their fifth year, The Dynamic Awards are designed to recognise and reward women for their hard work and huge contribution to the South East business community. Following the overwhelming success of this event in 2025, and a high demand from businesswomen across the South East, the 2026 Dynamic Awards will welcome entries from Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire and Kent.

Winning a Dynamic Award has rapidly become the most sought-after accolade in the region. Sponsoring an award offers a fantastic opportunity to position your brand alongside a prestigious, high-profile event with comprehensive marketing support, whilst demonstrating your commitment to this highly influential demographic.

The awards offer up to six months of intensive marketing including significant support from Platinum Business Magazine, the largest circulation business magazine in the UK, Surrey Business Magazine, the county’s largest circulation magazine, and Dynamic Magazine, the UK’s leading business women’s publication, reaching over 720,000 business readers each month. The intense social media campaign will spread the word to a national audience.

Each sponsoring company puts forward the judge for their category, offering the opportunity to network with key influencers whilst enforcing your organisation’s support for this all-important demographic, and assisting in levelling-up the UK business community.

This is a must-attend gala event that sells out every year with an audience of 500 business leaders from across the region coming together to celebrate the huge contribution that women make to the country’s balance sheet.

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AWARDS CEREMONY: MARCH 26TH GET INVOLVED CONTACT US

dynamic@platinummediagroup.co.uk 07767 613707 Get in touch now as availability is limited

CESS STORY ortunity CATEGORIES AI Excellence Award Small Business of the Year (-500k) Medium Business of the Year (500k-£2m) Large Business of the Year (2m+) Best Customer Service Award Best New Business Award Business Growth Award Employer of the Year Future Talent of the Year Gamechanger of the Year Inspirational Award Professional Services Award Property Professional of the Year Women in Tech Award MD of the Year Businesswoman of the Year Company of the Year

SPONSORSHIP BENEFITS

Sponsoring the Dynamic Awards is a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to recognising and supporting business excellence throughout this region.

In addition, we offer a range of unique marketing opportunities for all sponsors aimed at brand awareness, new business development and general marketing campaigns that drive business forward.

As Platinum own and publish all the business media across the South East, such benefits are a well proven method For more details about sponsorship, get in touch – dynamic@platinummediagroup.co.uk

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NE WS

NATWEST EXCEEDS FEMALE INVESTMENT TARGET NatWest surpassed its headline commitment at the end of 2025 to lend £2 billion to women-led businesses, announcing that it has already delivered £2.84 billion in funding across almost 56,000 loans. The achievement comes a full year ahead of schedule and reinforces the bank’s role as one of the UK’s largest backers of female entrepreneurship. The average loan size was around £50,700, with high demand across a wide variety of sectors. Health-related enterprises received the most support, followed by leisure, commercial real estate, retail and professional services. Regionally, London led the way in total lending, closely trailed by the South East, North West, Scotland and the South West — signalling the breadth of economic activity driven by women-run companies nationwide.

NESTLÉ WITHDRAWS BABY FORMULA PRODUCTS Nestle has issued a global recall of some baby formula products over concerns they contain a toxin which can cause food poisoning.

The food and drink giant, previously criticised for aggressive marketing of baby formula products, said specific batches of its SMA infant formula and follow-on formula were not safe to be fed to babies. The batches were sold across the world, Nestle said, and they potentially contain cereulide, which can cause nausea and vomiting when consumed.

The company said there had been no confirmed reports of illness associated with the products, but was recalling them “out of an abundance of caution”.

WOMEN’S SEXUAL HEALTH COMPANY ATTRACTS ANGEL FUNDING Mint Ventures, a Scottish business angels group has led a round investing in MyBliss in a company pioneering women’s sexual health, alongside co-investors Alma Angels and Lifted Ventures. MyBliss was founded by Huddersfield-based Mo Carrier after her experience with the

side effects of hormonal contraception.

It is now developing its flagship condom product through a £100,000 Innovate UK–funded project with the University of Manchester. It is also due to launch an intimate gel. Gillian Fleming, managing director of Mint Ventures, said: “We are

thrilled to support My Bliss and their visionary team. Their commitment to improving women’s health through evidence-based innovation aligns perfectly with our mission to back diverse founders who are changing the world for the better.”

UPFRONT THE LATEST BULLETINS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES WOMEN IN TECH TASKFORCE

BRITISH BUSINESS BANK RECEIVES FURTHER BOOST

Women across Britain will be better supported to enter, stay and lead in the UK’s tech sector as Technology Secretary Liz Kendall launches the Women in Tech Taskforce.

The British Business Bank has agreed to invest £30m to the Invest in Women Taskforce’s Women backing Women fund.

Every year, the economy loses an estimated £2 – £3.5 billion because women leave the tech sector or change jobs due to barriers that should not exist.

Ms Kendall is seeking to change that, having convened the first meeting of the Women in Tech Taskforce at the British Science Association in December. It is bringing together leading industry figures and experts from across the tech ecosystem.

This initiative will advise the government on how to better support diversity in tech and ensure the UK accesses the full talent pool, market opportunities, and innovation capacity needed for economic growth.

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The taskforce was formed following the landmark Rose Review, which found that putting serious funding behind women entrepreneurs could not only help reduce the inequality female founders face, but also add significantly to the UK economy.

The British Business Bank initially committed £50m to the Invest in Women Taskforce, which it doubled in June. With its new contribution to the fund of funds led by Bootstrap4F alongside Barclays, M&G, and Nationwide, its total investment in the taskforce has been brought to £130m.

DECLINE IN EMPLOYMENT IN WOMEN-LED FIRMS Women are entering entrepreneurship in record numbers, but new analysis from Prowess shows a sharp decline in women-led employer firms since the pandemic. The problem isn’t ambition — it’s access to finance, policy misalignment and a system that still makes growth harder for women.

Women’s entrepreneurship in the UK has reached a turning point, and not the one policymakers expected. While more women than ever are starting

businesses and entering selfemployment, the number of womenled companies with employees has fallen sharply since the pandemic. The report ‘The State of Women’s Enterprise 2025’ – shows that growth-potential firms led by women are being squeezed out just as the UK economy needs them most.

❛❛

“When life is giving you lemons, squirt somebody in the eye.”

– Cathy Guisewite

SWEDISH COMPANY ALLOWS DAYS OFF FOR WELLBEING

NEW GOVERNMENT ROLE FOR SCOTTISH BANKING CEO

Staff at a major Swedish pharmacy chain are being given paid time off to spend with friends, as Sweden’s government calls on businesses to help tackle loneliness.

Scottish banker Dame Debbie Crosbie is taking on a UK Government role to help women take key roles in the financial services sector.

Yasmine Lindberg, 45, is one of 11 participants taking part in the pilot “friendcare” scheme for the pharmacy group Apotek Hjärtat. “I’m exhausted when I go home. I don’t have time or energy to meet my friends,” she explains, before restocking a shelf of paracetamol.

Dame Debbie, chief executive of Nationwide Building Society, becomes Women in Finance Champion, succeeding Aviva’s Dame Amanda Blanc, whose five-year tenure has seen senior female representation rise from 32% to 36%.

Yasmine spends a lot of her free time with her teenage children, who live with her every other week. But she admits to feeling “quite lonely” since separating from her partner four years ago, which has led to fewer social invitations from couples in their network.

NEW APPOINTMENT AT WOMEN’S BUSINESS UNIVERSITY She’s In Business, a pioneering, triple accredited, women-led business university, has announced the appointment of Deidre Beacham as Strategic Partner in a 90-day collaboration designed to scale impact, accelerate operational excellence, and strengthen the university’s position as a global force in female entrepreneurship.

With fewer than 2% of female founders ever reaching £1m in revenue, ambition or drive aren’t the issues; it’s in access to high-level mentorship, strategic education, and donewith-you business building. She’s In Business was created to close that gap, blending accredited learning with handson execution to help women build profitable, purpose-led enterprises in real time.

❛❛

“Women who want to be equal with men are not ambitious.”

- Marilyn Monroe

It is an unpaid, direct ministerial appointment reporting to the Economic Secretary to the Treasury.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves, said: “When I became Chancellor, I said my time in office would be a success if more young women and girls knew there should be no ceiling on their ambition and no limit to what they can achieve.”

POST OFFICE SCANDAL VICTIM AWARDED OBE The oldest surviving victim of the Post Office Horizon IT scandal has been appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to justice after campaigning against wrongful prosecutions.

Betty Brown, 92, ran the Annfield Plain Post Office in Co Durham with her late husband, Oswall, from 1985.

They were forced out in 2003 after spending more than £50,000 of their savings to cover non-existent shortfalls.

She recently received her long-awaited settlement from one of the government’s compensation schemes.

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FINANCE

By Alison Jones, Partner, Kreston Reeves

Is starting a business on your New Year’s resolutions list?

A

fter more than 30 years advising entrepreneurs, many of them brilliant, determined women across the South East, I’ve learned the most successful businesses aren’t always the ones with the biggest budgets or flashiest ideas. They’re built on solid, sensible foundations and with determination and passion. If you’re taking your first steps into business ownership, this “back-to-basics” guide will help you start with clarity and confidence.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT BUSINESS STRUCTURE For many people starting out, becoming a sole trader is the simplest route. It’s quick to set up and easy to manage, but you’ll have full personal responsibility for any debts and that’s an important consideration.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES You’ll need to keep accurate financial records, track income and expenses, and organise receipts. Good bookkeeping is the difference between a business that thrives and one that constantly feels chaotic. How can you manage a business if you don’t track your cash or profit position? This is why many businesses fail in the first year, so don’t fall into this trap.

You can manage this yourself with cloud accounting software, but many new business owners choose to outsource the bookkeeping early on, to focus on building up their business.

“For many people starting Tax obligations will vary depending your structure. Sole traders pay out, becoming a sole trader on Income Tax and National Insurance A limited company provides more on profits. Limited companies pay is the simplest route.” protection because it separates your business finances from your personal ones. It can also look more professional to potential clients. It does come with extra admin costs, including annual filings with Companies House. If you’re going into business with someone else, you may also look at partnerships, but make sure you have a solid partnership agreement in place.

REGISTERING THE BUSINESS Once you’ve chosen your structure, there are a few simple steps to make it official.

If you’re a sole trader, you’ll register your new business with HMRC for self-assessment. Limited companies register with Companies House, choosing a business name that’s unique and meets the naming rules.

Whichever structure you choose, HMRC will issue you with a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), which you’ll need for filing tax returns. It’s a good idea to set up your Government Gateway account early on.

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Corporation Tax, and their directors may also need to file personal tax returns. You only need to register for VAT once your turnover hits the threshold, but there can be benefits to registering early, so take advice.

LICENCES, INSURANCE AND COMPLIANCE The nature of your business will determine whether you need any specific licences. Beauty therapists, food businesses, and childcare providers, for example, often require additional permissions or inspections.

A few insurance policies are considered essential, including Public liability insurance, Professional indemnity insurance, and Employers’ liability insurance, which is legally required if you employ staff. If you’re handling customer data (and most businesses do), you may need to register with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

FUNDING YOUR START Not every business needs external funding; however, there

“Not every business needs external funding; however, there are several accessible options.”

are several accessible options. Some start with personal savings or small loans from friends or family. Others apply for the government-backed Start Up Loan scheme, which includes mentoring alongside funding. Traditional bank loans are still a viable option, and here in the South East, we’re lucky; local enterprise partnerships and councils periodically offer grants for growth, innovation, or sustainability.

Angel investors and crowdfunding can work too, though they demand more preparation and a strong pitch.

than perfection and some social media platforms work better for certain products, so do some research.

CRAFTING A USEFUL BUSINESS PLAN A business plan doesn’t need to be a 50-page document. In fact, some of the best I’ve seen fit on just a few pages and get straight to the point. Be clear on: • What your idea is • What problem you are solving • Who your customers are • How you’ll reach them • How you’ll price your product or service • What your first-year finances might look like • Why choose you

STARTING SIMPLE, BUILDING STRONG Starting a business is both exciting and daunting. With the right foundations, it becomes far more manageable. Take things step by step. Ask for help early. Remember, you don’t need to know everything on day one.

A good plan isn’t about impressing a bank; it’s about giving yourself direction and a purpose.

BRAND, PRESENCE AND VISIBILITY Your brand is more than your logo; it’s the feeling customers get when they interact with you. Start with a clear message: who you help and why. A simple, well-structured website, even a basic one, can make a big difference. So can creating a Google Business Profile, which helps local customers find you.

Choose one or two social media platforms rather than trying to be everywhere at once. Consistency matters far more

GROWING YOUR SUPPORT NETWORK No one builds a business alone. Sussex for example has a thriving community of networking groups, coworking hubs, and mentoring programmes. These spaces provide not only knowledge and encouragement and that sense of being surrounded by people who “get it” which can be invaluable.

Also, don’t neglect your own health and well-being on the journey. Make time to prioritise your own needs as well as those of your customers.

So why not make 2026 the year that you launch your new business. I would be delighted to meet up for a coffee and hear all about your ideas and ambitions.

Call: +44 (0)33 0124 1399 Email: Alison: alisonjones@krestonreeves.com Visit: www.krestonreeves.com www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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FE ATURE

The

Alex Bailey Column

COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2022

We are delighted to hav Co-Founder, with 20+ y organisational change. delivering impactful pro

HOW AI WILL STRE CONNECTION AT W

By Alex Bailey

W

e will be hearing a lot more this year about augmenting AI into our work and our roles as more people explore it to sustain performance. This is particularly relevant with the increased pace and volume of changes affecting us at all levels.

With AI pop-ups and tabs available on most platforms, those who are more experimental will try the suggestions when available, but that allows AI to guess what we need.

As humans, we have to tap into our consciousness intentionally and be more in control of what we do, how and why.

As a psychologist, I am often asked how AI will affect human interaction. People already recognise the increased dispersion of our workforces through hybrid, remote and global working, and we can use AI to improve our human connection – but how to start?

We’ve all had an email or text that is obviously written by AI, or is it? We question whether the person really sounds like that because we are highly attuned to how people speak, write, and express themselves, even without the nonverbal cues present in person.

I’m still writing all my own emails, because I know when I receive one of those that is AI-engineered, for whatever reason, it is helping that person, and the connection between us feels instantly lost. So how can we use AI beyond simple email responses to support our human connections at work this year?

FINDING HIDDEN CONNECTIONS AI will increasingly appear in our work systems to offer more than just personal support, but team, project and organisational insights. Imagine working on a strategic plan and uploading it to a shared database to receive a message linking you to someone you’ve not met before, who has just completed a similar plan in your organisation.

The chance to link with that person increases enterprise-wide collaboration and efficiency opportunities, as well as personal growth potential through mentoring and 10

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supporting each other. Further to this, by surfacing shared interests, values, and expertise across teams, AI can help colleagues discover common ground and build authentic relationships that might otherwise remain hidden within an organisation or beyond. Currently available example systems that do this are Microsoft Graph and Viva Topics as well as platforms like LinkedIn. EMPATHY BUILT IN Not everyone is blessed with the ability to be empathetic, or even if they are, perhaps the stress and time pressure impact them when under strain. AI can play out multiple scenarios to identify how people might be experiencing our messages.

This rapid sentiment analysis can offer real-time feedback so we can adjust our tone in the moment for the best impact.

This helps us avoid damage to trust and psychological safety, which is harder to rebuild and recover later. Currently

“AI will increasingly appear in our work systems to offer more than just personal support, but team, project and organisational insights.”

ve Alex Bailey contributing to Dynamic. She is a Global CEO and years of expertise in HR leadership, psychology, coaching, and She specialises in cultural evolution, leadership,and performance, ogrammes globally while speaking at international events.

ENGTHEN HUMAN WORK IN 2026 available example platforms for meeting sentiment analysis include: Read.ai , Knapsack and Insight7.

MORE TIME FOR WHAT MATTERS One of AI’s most powerful contributions is supposedly freeing humans from repetitive tasks. Instead of spending hours compiling weekly performance reports, leaders can rely on AI to automate the process. That reclaimed time can be invested in open forums, storytelling sessions, or one‑to‑one conversations, and these are the moments where authentic connection thrives.

But do we actually do it? I know I enjoy using AI to support my work in many ways and automate tasks quickly, but do I really then repurpose the time saved with my team for connection, or do I allow the AI questions to draw me into the rabbit hole of interesting in-depth analysis? This is where we must recognise when we must stop, reset and re-prioritise, often at multiple points throughout the day.

“AI can help colleagues discover common ground and build authentic relationships.”

INCLUSION IN HYBRID & GLOBAL TEAMS In a global workplace, connections often reduce across both time zones and languages. It can be hard to keep up with different cultural celebrations and the nuances that local language applies, particularly to the delicate fabric that builds relationships through understanding and trust.

AI‑powered translation and scheduling tools can have a rapid impact. Picture a team meeting with participants from Tokyo, Abu Dhabi, and Houston: AI translates conversations instantly and adjusts scheduling to respect local time zones and celebrations/holidays. Everyone feels equally included, no matter where they are. Example tools for AIpowered translation include: Microsoft Translator, DeepL and scheduling assistants such as Clockwise or Motion, which ensure meetings respect diversity.

HUMAN AGILITY, MEASURED AND EMBEDDED Finally, AI is making human connection measurable. By tracking wellbeing indicators like meeting fatigue or engagement levels, AI alerts leaders when connection is dropping. Leaders can respond with shorter check‑ins or rotating facilitation roles, embedding human agility into the operating system of the business. Microsoft Viva Insights offers monitoring of collaboration patterns, meeting overload and focus time, giving leaders signals of disengagement or declining connection.

The future of work is inviting us to use technology to deepen our humanity. In 2026, AI can help leaders move beyond efficiency and automation into empathy and authentic connection. The organisations that thrive will be those that treat human connection not as a soft skill, but as a strategic asset and use AI to make it stronger every day.

Alex Bailey styled by Gresham Blake Email: Alex@baileyandfrench.com www.baileyandfrench.com Insta @alexbaileybackstage Follow me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ alex-bailey-26562b2/ www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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FE ATURE

Laura Hearn is a former BBC journalist, now storytelling consultant and founder of Flip It - a podcast and platform helping people and businesses use storytelling as a tool for clarity, connection and change. This month, for Dynamic, Laura questions if AI could be being used to manipulate our thinking

Are we l

By Laura Hearn

A

few weeks ago, I was having a conversation with a friend, who just so happens to also be a pretty bad-ass CEO of a large global tech firm. Over a cup of overpriced tea, she told me about a decision that she admits challenged her own moral compass.

She sat on it for a few days before running it by her daughter, who said, “Why don’t you ask ChatGPT?” We’re living through something that researchers are calling “knowledge collapse” - with implications that are far more subtle and insidious than the term suggests. It’s not whether AI will deem us all redundant, but whether we are losing our ability to know what we don’t know.

THE WORLD IS DRIFTING TOWARD A SINGLE CENTRE OF TRUTH The systems we increasingly rely on to tell us what is true and what is worth knowing are trained predominantly on a narrow slice of global experience. The largest public datasets used to train AI models are overwhelmingly shaped by Western, English language, digitised material. This does not mean AI is malicious. It simply reflects what is available to it, what we humans tell it.

Which means it cannot learn from oral knowledge which has passed between generations without ever touching a keyboard. It cannot learn from indigenous ecological systems, which evolved through observation rather than documentation.

It cannot learn from the lived experience of communities that do not exist online in a way the algorithm can parse.

The result is a world that appears increasingly homogenous, not because it is, but because our tools cannot see its full texture.

“We’re living through something that researchers are calling ‘knowledge collapse’ – with implications that are far more subtle and insidious than the term suggests.”

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THERE IS ANOTHER CHANGE HAPPENING TOO The individuals and companies building these tools are becoming harder to reach. Journalistic access is narrowing. Questions are being filtered. Interviews are either tightly choreographed, edited to an inch of their life or avoided altogether. And the people with the most influence are the least accessible and escape accountability.

But perhaps what saddens me most is how these forces converge to

losing our way? weaken the most important navigational tool we have – our human compass. That inner sense of knowing. The feeling that something is off. The instinct that nudges you to question the obvious. The intuition that has guided humans for thousands of years, before algorithms existed. The moral compass that my friend struggled to find.

“Our human compass is still there. It is at times being quietened - even silenced, but it is not lost. The work for all of us is to listen to it.”

Instinct is not anti-intellectual. It is the culmination of lived experience, emotional memory, pattern recognition and embodied wisdom. It is how our ancestors navigated the land and oceans. It is how parents know when something is wrong. It is how leaders make decisions that data cannot fully explain. It is how journalists notice what others overlook.

But like any muscle, it weakens through lack of use. And we are using it less. The kind of knowing you cannot outsource.

I don’t have a tidy answer, but I know it starts with noticing. Noticing when we reach for the algorithm instead of our own judgment. Noticing whose voices are missing from the conversation. Noticing when access to people and information is being quietly restricted while we’re being told it’s being democratised.

It starts with asking better questions. Not just “what does the data say?” but “whose data? Measured how? Leaving out what?” Not just “what’s the most common answer?” but “what

are the uncommon answers, and why might they matter?”

And perhaps most importantly, it starts with your own internal instinct that something doesn’t add up, that sense that there’s more to the story, that feeling that the consensus might be wrong. Those are profoundly human capacities, honed over millennia. We can’t afford to lose them to the convenience of algorithmic certainty.

Once we do, we won’t just have lost knowledge, we’ll have lost the compass that helps us navigate towards wisdom in the first place.

HOW DO WE FIND OUR WAY BACK? The solution is not to reject technology. It is to remember that technology is a tool, not a compass. It can inform, but it cannot orient. It can answer, but it cannot interpret. It can reflect, but it cannot see.

To rebuild our human compass, we have to practice the habits that keep it alive.

• Real-life conversation • Curiosity without agenda • Proximity to real people • Listening for what is unsaid • Noticing whose voices are missing •A sking questions even when they feel uncomfortable These small acts strengthen our ability to understand rather than simply consume. Technology will keep evolving.

Algorithms will become more convincing. Gatekeepers will continue to manage access. But the stories that move us… the decisions that define us and the relationships that sustain us will always depend on our capacity to feel, sense, question and know. We do not need to return to a pre digital world.

We simply need to remember how to navigate the one we are in.

Our human compass is still there. It is at times being quietened - even silenced, but it is not lost. The work for all of us is to listen to it. And most importantly, to trust it.

You can listen to Laura’s podcast, Flip It, wherever you get your podcasts, and you can connect with her at www.flipitglobal.com www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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NE WS

SCALE OF THE UK’S ‘WINDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION’ REVEALED

The UK’s offshore wind sector has grown from a single 4MW project in 2000 to a major energy force producing 16,000MW today, according to new analysis. The report, published by energy thinktank Ember, describes the transformation as a “windustrial revolution” that now powers millions of homes and employs around 40,000 people.

The rapid expansion has played a key role in the UK’s move away from coal and helped lift renewables to around 60% of national electricity generation, underlining the scale of change achieved in a single generation.

IN THE RIGHT

DIRECTION GENE THERAPY SHOWS PROMISE AGAINST ‘UNTREATABLE’ BLOOD CANCER A pioneering gene therapy developed in London has delivered long-term remission in patients with previously untreatable T-cell leukaemia.

The treatment, created by researchers at Great Ormond Street Hospital and University College London, reprogrammes donor T-cells to attack cancer without harming

healthy tissue. Trials involving children and adults showed the majority entered deep remission, with several remaining cancer-free years later. Scientists describe the therapy as a major breakthrough in personalised medicine, demonstrating how targeted gene editing could transform outcomes for aggressive blood cancers.

MONTHLY INJECTION OFFERS HOPE FOR PEOPLE WITH SEVERE ASTHMA A new monthly injection has shown strong results for people with severe asthma who rely on daily steroid tablets. In an international trial led by King’s College London, most participants receiving the drug tezepelumab were able to reduce or stop steroid use without worsening symptoms.

The treatment works by calming immune responses that trigger lung inflammation. Researchers say the findings are encouraging, particularly

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given the serious long-term side effects associated with steroid tablets, and could mark a significant shift in how severe asthma is managed.

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“I try to take one day at a time, but sometimes several attack me at once.”

Jennifer Yane

IMPROVED OVARIAN CANCER DIAGNOSIS New draft guidance from the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence now recommends agebased thresholds for the CA125 blood test, aiming to help GPs identify ovarian cancer earlier and with greater accuracy.

The updated approach replaces the previous single cut-off level, which evidence suggests could miss cases in older women.

By tailoring thresholds to age, the guidance reflects differences in how CA125 levels present across life stages, supporting faster referral and more timely diagnosis while reducing the risk of cancers being overlooked.

LONDON MURDER RATE FALLS TO RECORD LOW New analysis shows London’s murder rate is at its lowest level since records began in 2003. Data from the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime also points to a sharp reduction in youth homicides, alongside falling knife crime offences and hospital admissions related to knife

injuries. The figures challenge claims that violence in the capital is rising.

City leaders say the progress reflects sustained investment in policing and prevention, while acknowledging that continued effort is needed to tackle the root causes of serious violence.

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK SAYS FAREWELL TO FUR New York Fashion Week has confirmed that animal fur will no longer appear on its runways, joining London and Copenhagen in banning fur from fashion week events. Campaigners welcomed the decision as another sign that fur is falling out of favour across the industry.

Animal welfare groups say the move increases pressure on remaining fashion capitals that still permit fur on the catwalk. With designers increasingly turning to highquality alternatives, critics argue that fur now feels outdated, unnecessary and out of step with modern fashion values.

NEW OVERNIGHT TRAINS TO LINK NORTHERN EUROPE WITH ITALY Night train travel in Europe is set to expand again with a new service connecting Amsterdam and Brussels to Milan. The route is being launched by European Sleeper, a communityowned Dutch-Belgian railway company already operating international night services. Running three times a week, the

A FUR FARMING NATION CALLS TIME ON CRUELTY Poland has formally banned fur farming, drawing a line under one of Europe’s largest industries of its kind. The legislation, signed into law by President Karol Nawrocki, prevents new fur farms from opening and gives the country’s remaining 200 operations until 2034 to close, with financial compensation available for a limited period.

The move makes Poland the 18th EU nation to outlaw fur farming, increasing pressure on those that still permit it.

The decision follows sustained campaigning by animal

welfare groups, including a petition backed by tens of thousands of supporters.

journey will pass through Switzerland’s Simplon line, with stops including Cologne, Bern and Stresa on Lake Maggiore. The operator says the route supports growing demand for low-impact, city-centreto-city-centre travel and offers a viable alternative to short-haul flights.

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“Your job is not just to do what your parents say, what your teachers say, what society says, but to figure out what your heart calling is and be led by that.”

Oprah Winfrey

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FE ATURE

Pippa Moyle is the CEO and founder of the City Girl Network, a mission-driven business dedicated to empowering and supporting women across the UK. Since launching in March 2016, the network has built a vibrant community of over 150,000 women, facilitating new friendships, business connections, job opportunities, housing solutions, and valuable life advice.

My favou

By Pippa Moyle

I

used to follow that statement up with “after ‘yes’ that is”, but I recently realised that I’d only offer that quip through a visceral need to people-please. Of course, I love a ‘yes’ to a campaign idea, a new client signing or an event invitation, but ‘no’ holds the key to so much more.

Close your eyes with me and visualise for a moment: what do you think of when you hear ‘no’? How does your body react? What’s the next thing you want to do? What does your environment look like when you’re having those thoughts?

A year ago, I would have told you that my tense body was readying itself for fight-or-fl ight mode that I do not welcome nor enjoy, surrounded by a dark emptiness. ‘No’ is rejection; ‘no’ is bad.

Yet, somehow, after years of building an intolerance to ‘no’, I enter this new year with a whole new perspective and a new favourite word.

“A year ago, I would have told you that my tense body was readying itself for fight-or-flight mode that I do not welcome nor enjoy, surrounded by a dark emptiness.”

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‘NO’ IS AN ANSWER Let’s start with the moment that I realised how much I loved ‘no’. It was a crisp, blue-skied afternoon in February, walking my dog through the nearby meadow, when I broke the ‘digital detox in nature’ rules of checking my emails for the third time.

“I’m sorry, Pippa, but it’s a no from us,” wrote a target customer that I’d been schmoozing.

I had subconsciously braced myself for the wave of rejection, self-deprecation, and failure-shaming that would

urite word is ‘no’ follow. Yet, instead, I let out a deep breath of relief. I could take the anticipation and uncertainty that came from putting that proposal together and let it go.

There are dozens of proposals floating around in my target clients’ inboxes. Some are stuck in the ‘maybe’ limbo, some in the ‘another day’ folder, and the rest are in a holding pen of doom (lovingly known as ‘the bin’). Whatever the folder, they’ve all become ghosts.

‘No’ gives them the closure that those ideas deserve.

the one saying it. Mastering the art of saying ‘no’ is a whole lesson in itself, especially if, like me, you were conditioned to view kindness as compliance. Softness is saintly, sacrifice is admirable, our time is infinitely elastic if it serves someone else’s need, and to say ‘no’ is to break an unspoken social contract. A contract that neither you nor I have ever signed.

It would be fun for me to write a visual piece here about burning that contract to the ground with an almighty ‘NO’.

But there’s a more authentic angle I need to impart: it’s kind to say ‘no’.

“I don’t want to romanticise ‘no’ as a word that lands softly. But It’s better to stand disappointed we can take that energy and turn than in discontent. it into a shot of adrenaline.”

It gives both parties certainty, ‘NO’ IS A LESSON No is their answer, but it’s your lesson. Sometimes it comes with feedback from the responder, but more often it comes from within yourself.

honesty and clarity. I’m regularly pitched to by workshop practitioners and professionals looking to reach our audience through events. Sometimes their ideas suit our audience, sometimes they don’t.

In the case of the aforementioned sunny February dogwalk ‘no’, my relief came from not having to face my fear of speaking on camera. It’s not something I considered at the time of writing the proposal – I thought the legal side would be more daunting – but that fear of speaking on camera has always held me back. Thus, I identified a growth project to work on.

In the case of the latter, my ‘no’ reaffirms our company’s values, as well as saving the practitioner time and energy chasing up the idea. Their reaction to the ‘no’ also helps me decide whether they’re the right partner to collaborate with in the future.

Other ‘no’ responses have taught me to look at my business from different perspectives. It highlighted cracks that I was too close to see, taught me how to communicate my message and helped me shape our core values.

‘NO’ IS KIND There’s a difference between being given a ‘no’ and being

‘NO’ IS AN ADRENALINE BOOST I don’t want to romanticise ‘no’ as a word that lands softly.

It is, after all, a word powerful enough to awaken savage emotions of hate, rejection and loss. But we can take that energy and turn it into a shot of adrenaline.

I heard ‘no’ more in 2025 than ever before in my working life. But I also heard ‘yes’ more too. All because I stopped being scared of a ‘no’ and started putting myself in the firing line for it. In fact, I made a game out of it. For every ‘no’ I receive, I have to pitch the idea to another brand within 24 hours. ‘No’ may not open one door, but it will always lead to another.

Pippa Moyle CEO + Founder citygirlnetwork.com Our Communities: Brighton, London, Manchester, Bristol, Bath, Leeds, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Worthing, Liverpool, Newcastle, Chester, Milton Keynes, Oxford, York, Cardiff, Glasgow, Perth and Rural Sussex www.platinummediagroup.co.uk www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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E TA U L TR H FH E A E

Natalie Montagnani is a Business & Leadership Coach and Business. With over 25 years’ commercial experience, she coaching, corporate workshops and events to lead and cla influence and commercial impact they deserve.

2026? LET’S YOUR BEST

By Natalie Montagnani ‘Failures’ strengthen you, refine you, and prepare you. Let the lessons of 2025 fuel you, not follow you. Feel gratitude for the wisdom, grit and resilience they gave you.

NEW YEAR, NEW BEGINNINGS As the fabulous Ted Lasso once said, “I smell potential.”

January arrives with a spark of possibility that is unlike anything else. We are invited to step into a fresh new year with a renewed sense of clarity and potential. This moment is more than symbolic; it’s pivotal and offers you a huge opportunity.

EMBRACING THE LESSONS Women are often incredibly harsh on themselves. They look back on a year just passed with judgment and see only what they didn’t accomplish or what they should have. But what if last year wasn’t a problem to unpack, what if everything that challenged you, stretched you or made you doubt yourself was actually shaping you for what’s next?

THE OPPORTUNITY Let’s reframe 2025 instead. Here are some powerful words from John Maxwell’s incredible book Failing Forward: “If the possibility of failure were erased, what would you attempt to achieve? It’s true that you risk failure if you try something bold because you might miss it. But you also risk failure if you stand still and don’t try anything new. Fail early, fail often, but always fail forward.”

Let this be the year you trust yourself more deeply, back yourself more boldly and rise more intentionally. Your best year yet begins now… let’s go!

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WHAT DO YOU ACTUALLY WANT? To step into your best year yet, you must ask yourself honestly: What do I want for 2026? Not the sensible or safe choice, or what others expect from you. The real vision — the business or career that feels aligned, the life that feels expansive, the income that feels liberating, the boundaries that feel empowering, the energy that feels sustainable, and the version of yourself who feels deeply proud of the world she’s building for herself and her family. Women rarely permit themselves to think this boldly. Yet this is the exact season asking you to.

POSSIBILITY INTO POWER Clarity is the difference between a year of growth and a year of guessing. When you understand where you’re going, what matters most, and what needs your attention right

FIVE GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR 2026 1. Clarity over chaos What feels aligned? Not what looks impressive or what you’ve been “shoulding” yourself about. Let desire lead your direction, and intuition choose your answers.

2. Set standards and goals Goals give you something to move towards, but standards define what you will no longer tolerate. A goal might say: “I want a promotion,” but a standard says: “I no longer abandon myself to please others.” Or a goal might say: “I want more clients,” but a standard says: “I only work

with people who resp tise and energy.”

3. Build the support Why do we feel that w the burden of everyth were never meant to Support isn’t a luxury ture that keeps you s Get a coach, join a co a women’s employee your organisation or o that drain you. A pow isn’t the one doing ev one who stops trying

d founder of IGNITE Women in e empowers women through aim the visibility, confidence,

“As the fabulous Ted Lasso once said, “I smell potential.” January arrives with a spark of possibility that is unlike anything else.”

S MAKE IT YEAR YET now, momentum becomes natural, not forced. Clarity helps you move forward and make decisions with the grounded certainty of a woman who knows exactly who she is and where she’s headed.

When your identity rises, everything else rises with it — confidence, opportunities and impact.

2026: THE YEAR OF THE POWERHOUSE 2026 isn’t waiting for a ‘better’ version of you, it’s waiting for THIS version. The woman who has already walked through the lessons, gathered wisdom, survived storms and is now standing at the edge of a brand-new chapter with more strength, awareness and potential than she probably realises.

Let this be the year you trust yourself more deeply, back yourself more boldly and rise more intentionally. Your best year yet begins now… let’s go!

pect my time, exper-

you need we should shoulder hing ourselves? You do any of this alone. y; it’s the infrastrucstanding as you grow. ommunity, launch e resource group in outsource the tasks werhouse woman verything; she’s the to.

4. Simplify to amplify When everything matters, nothing moves. So this year, apply the following ruthlessly: Do the things only you can do Ditch the things no longer align Delegate things draining your energy 5. Lead from who you’re becoming Your next level has nothing to do with your past and everything to do with the identity you’re willing to step into. Ask yourself: “How would the woman I’m becoming think? Decide? Speak? Show up?”

Then start acting from that place today.

Natalie Montagnani Founder of IGNITE Women in Business 07900 153503 ignitewomeninbusiness.com Connect with Natalie on LinkedIn or drop her an email to natalie@ignitewomeninbusiness.com www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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STORY BIG

THE BIG STORY

DAME

SARAH MULLALLY

The first female Archbishop of Canterbury

In October 2025, His Majesty the King approved the nomination of the Bishop of London, the Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dame Sarah Mullally, as the next Archbishop of Canterbury.

Alan Wares tells the back story of the woman who has broken down some of society’s final taboos.

B office.

ishop Sarah becomes the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, a title dating back to 597 AD, when Saint Augustine arrived in Kent from Rome.

Bishop Sarah will be the first woman to hold the

Born Sarah Bowser in Woking in 1962, Bishop Sarah became a Christian at the age of 16. Before being ordained, Bishop Sarah worked as a nurse in the National Health Service, which she has described as “an opportunity to reflect the love of God”.

She received clinical training in nursing from St Thomas’ Hospital and worked both there and at the Royal Marsden

Hospital in Brompton, South West London, where she also began her study for ministry in the Church of England. She was ordained a priest in 2002 and began her ministry in the diocese of Southwark. She served in various London churches and, in 2012, became a canon of Salisbury Cathedral.

Three years later, Bishop Sarah took the role of Suffragan Bishop of Crediton in the Diocese of Exeter. In May 2018, Bishop Sarah was installed as the 133rd Bishop of London at St Paul’s Cathedral, the first woman to hold the role.

Bishop Sarah is married to Eamonn, and they have two grown-up children, Liam and Grace. Before that, she was the Bishop of Crediton in the Diocese of Exeter.

“In a career of firsts, Dame Sarah Mullally has been the Bishop of London since 2018, which also made her the first woman to be appointed to that role” 20

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Prior to her ordination in 2001, she was the Government’s Chief Nursing Officer for England – the youngest person ever to be appointed to that role at the age of 37 – having previously

© Roger Harris Photography

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specialised in cancer care. Bishop Sarah has described nursing as “an opportunity to reflect the love of God”.

Bishop Sarah was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in recognition of her outstanding contribution to nursing. She was ordained in 2001 and served her curacy in the Diocese of Southwark, initially as a self-supporting minister, before leaving her government post in 2004.

The most senior bishop in the Church of England, the Archbishop of Canterbury’s ministry combines many roles including serving as the Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Canterbury, Primate of All England and Metropolitan, as well as primus inter pares – or first among equals – of the Primates of the global Anglican Communion, which consists of around 85 million people, across 165 countries.

“She will be the first woman to hold the post, and only the second since the Middle Ages not to have a degree from Oxford or Cambridge universities.”

The Crown Nominations Commission (CNC) for Canterbury nominated Bishop Sarah following a process of public consultation and prayerful discernment that began in February 2025. The Canterbury CNC was made up of representatives from across the Church of England, the global Anglican Communion and the Diocese of Canterbury.

She was sworn of the Privy Council of the United Kingdom in March 2018, and was introduced to the House of Lords to sit on the Lords Spiritual benches two months later. She sits by virtue of her office (the Bishop of London is one of five Church of England bishops who automatically receive a Lords seat, independent of seniority).

She succeeded Richard Chartres and became the first female dean of the Chapel Royal in July 2019. Bishop Sarah played a leading role in King Charles’ 2023 coronation, one of three female prelates involved in the ceremonies.

On October 3rd 2025, the Church of England announced that Bishop Sarah would become the next archbishop of Canterbury, in succession to Justin Welby. As such, she will be Primate of All England and the metropolitan bishop of the Province of Canterbury. She will be the first woman to hold the post, and only the second since the Middle Ages not to have a degree from Oxford or Cambridge universities.

She was elected by the college of canons in December 2025, with legal confirmation following at St Paul’s Cathedral on January 28th. At this point, she legally becomes Archbishop of Canterbury and ceases to be Bishop of London. She will then be formally installed at Canterbury Cathedral in March, marking the beginning of her public ministry in the role.

Using language and vernacular clearly out of date for such a (belated) breakthrough, some conservative Anglican groups expressed their opposition to her appointment, based around her gender. Within the Church of England, the conservative evangelical Church Society stated that her election “creates additional problems of disunity in the Church in England and around the world” and voiced concern relating to her views on same-sex relationships.

Drawing of St Augustine of Canterbury, a sixth century emissary of Pop Gregory I, and the first Archbishop of Canterbury

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Meanwhile, the traditionalist Anglo-Catholic Forward in Faith organisation, which rejects the ordination of women as priests and bishops, recognised her as the “true and lawful holder of that office”. Some Anglican churches, particularly in Africa, opposed her due to their opposition to the ordination of women and to Mullally’s views on the blessing of same-sex couples. The Global Fellowship of Confessing Anglicans, a conservative Anglican group primarily based

Takaichi’s priorities for Japan’s foreign policy are for closer ties with the USA

The resplendent Canterbury Cathedral

in Africa and Asia, expressed its “sorrow” at Mullally’s appointment, saying that it proved that the Church of England “has relinquished its authority to lead”.

“Using language and vernacular clearly out of date for such a (belated) breakthrough, her appointment drew opposition from The Church of Uganda’s Stephen Kaziimba statsome conservative Anglican groups.” ed his “sadness” on Mullally’s appointment due to “her support and advocacy for unbiblical positions on sexuality and same-sex marriage that reveal her departure from the historic Anglican positions that uphold the authority of Scripture for faith and life”.

With that in mind, can anyone fail to understand the Church’s waning popularity and relevance now, given some of those regressive comments?

However, other Anglican groups in Africa have supported her; Emily Onyango, the first female Anglican bishop in Kenya, said that Mullally’s election indicated that “things will be done differently ... We know there will be justice in the church”. Thabo Makgoba, the archbishop of Cape Town, said that Mullally’s election was a “thrilling development”.

SOCIAL VIEWS Bishop Sarah, on the other hand, is having none of that.

She is a self-described feminist and has ordained both men and women. According to the Financial Times, Mullally “is seen as a theological liberal” (another unhelpful label, seemingly damning her with faint praise).

However, she also supports the inclusion in the Church of England of those who reject the ordination of women, stating upon her announcement as the next Bishop of London: “I am very respectful of those who, for theological reasons, cannot accept my role as a priest or a bishop. My belief is that Church diversity throughout London should flourish and grow; everybody should be able to find a spiritual home.” www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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Dame Sarah Mullally’s new London residence, Lambeth Palace

In September 2016, she became one of ten bishops to make up the church’s “Bishops’ reflection group on sexuality”. In relation to same-sex relationships, she stated in 2017: “It is a time for us to reflect on our tradition and scripture, and together say how we can offer a response that is about it being inclusive love.” When asked about LGBT people in the church, she went further, and said: “What we have to remember is this is about people, and the church seeks to demonstrate love to all, because it reflects the God of love, who loves everybody.”

a continuum, I would be somewhere along it moving towards pro-life when it relates to my choice and then enabling choice when it relates to others.”

In June 2025, she opposed new legislation that would extend abortion rights by decriminalising terminations in utero up to full term.

Bishop Sarah signed an open letter from Anglican clergy that called the bill a “dangerous change” to the law.

“When asked about LGBT people in the church, she said: ‘What we have to remember is this is about people, and the church seeks to demonstrate love to all, because it reflects the God NEW ROLE of love, who loves everybody.’”

Upon her ordination as

In 2018, Bishop Sarah stated that she supported the Church of England’s traditional teaching on marriage being between one man and one woman. In 2022, Mullally supported the observance of LGBT+ History Month and the launch of an advisory group to advise the diocese on “pastoral care and inclusion of LGBT+ people in the life of our church communities”.

Previously, Mullally has described her views on abortion as favouring abortion rights, although she would lean against abortion faced with her own decision. She has said: “I would suspect that I would describe my approach to this issue as ‘pro-choice’ rather than ‘pro-life’, although if it were 24

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Archbishop of Canterbury, Bishop Sarah said: “As I respond to the call of Christ to this new ministry, I do so in the same spirit of service to God and to others that has motivated me since I first came to faith as a teenager.

“At every stage of that journey, through my nursing career and Christian ministry, I have learned to listen deeply – to people and to God’s gentle prompting – to seek to bring people together to find hope and healing.

“I want, very simply, to encourage the Church to continue to grow in confidence in the Gospel, to speak of the love that we find in Jesus Christ and for it to shape our actions.

“And I look forward to sharing this journey of faith with

the millions of people serving God and their communities in parishes all over the country and across the global Anglican Communion. I know this is a huge responsibility, but I approach it with a sense of peace and trust in God to carry me as He always has.”

Currently known as the Archbishop of Canterburydesignate, Bishop Sarah will legally become the Archbishop of Canterbury at her Confirmation of Election at St Paul’s Cathedral this month, with a service of installation taking place at Canterbury Cathedral in March.

As communities move on, the Church of England continues its struggles to regain the power and authority it once had over Anglican society. Bishop Sarah not only has to appeal to an absent flock, but also to fight an ongoing internal battle within her own Church to placate those who don’t want her in the top job in the first place.

But, as Margaret Thatcher once said, “If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.” It’s entirely possible that the Church of England has finally woken up to that mantra.

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ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY

The Roman province of Britannia had four archbishops, seated at Londinium (London), Eboracum (York), Lindum Colonia (Lincoln) and Corinium Dobunnorum (Cirencester). However, in the fifth and sixth centuries, Britannia began to be populated by Anglo-Saxons, who were pagan. Of the seven kingdoms they created, Kent arguably had the closest links with European politics, trade and culture, because it was conveniently situated for communication with continental Europe.

In the late sixth century, several years before the arrival of the first Christian mission to England, King Æthelberht of Kent married a Christian Frankish princess named Bertha. At this point, he permitted the preaching of Christianity.

The first archbishop of Canterbury was Saint Augustine of Canterbury. He led a delegation of 40 monks, who arrived in Kent in 597 AD, having been sent by Pope Gregory I on a mission to the English. He was accepted by King Æthelbert, on his conversion to Christianity, about the year 598.

Pope Gregory, oblivious of recent developments in the former Roman province, including the spread of the Pelagian heresy, had intended the new archepiscopal sees for England to be established in London and York. In the event, Canterbury was chosen over London owing to political circumstances.

Since then, the archbishops of Canterbury have been referred to as occupying the Chair of St. Augustine.

Bishop Sarah Mullally becomes the 106th Archibishop of Canterbury, a role that had been vacant since January 2025, following the resignation of the previous Archbishop, Justin Welby.

In November 2024, Welby had faced calls to resign, following the publication of the Makin Review into the Church’s handling of allegations of physical and sexual abuse committed by the barrister John Smyth at Christian camps in the 1970s and 1980s.

The report criticised Welby for failing to follow up on his subordinates’ claims that they had passed on the matter to the police after he was informed of the allegations in 2013, and stated that it was “unlikely” Welby was not aware of concerns being reported about Smyth during the time of the alleged offences, as he had claimed.

Mullally’s predecessor in the role, Justin Welby, who resigned in disgrace in November 2024

Despite initially stating that he would not resign, on November 12th 2024, following mounting pressure from both victims and clerics, Welby announced that he had spoken to King Charles III, the Supreme Governor of the Church of England and would resign.

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HE ALTH

RECOGNISING VISION. REWARDING LEADE

HONOURING THE WOMEN REDEFINING BUSINESS

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ERSHIP. INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION. Do you work alongside a woman who inspires everyone around her?

A leader, innovator, or rising star who truly deserves recognition?

NOMINATE HER FOR THE DYNAMIC AWARDS! VIEW CATEGORIES AND ENTER ONLINE WWW.PLATINUMMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK “I was honoured to have won and be part of a night of inspiration, powerful women and shared success.”

Fran Wyatt, Porky Whites LARGE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2025

“This award isn’t just an award, it represents all the hard work that happens both here on this platform and quietly behind the scenes”

Sophia Lorimer, Fine-Tuned Wardrobe SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION AWARD 2025

Want to nominate someone but not sure where to start or which category fits best?

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SPOTLIGHT

In our exclusive Spotlight feature, we highlight women who are doing good things in their community. They’re not always seen but we think they should be.

SPOTLIGH T Suzie Thompson Co-founder of The Leadership Visibility Co and ODN Europe Board Member

I

’ve always been driven by people, helping them step into their potential, own their story, and lead from a place of truth. After more than 22 years in corporate life, I’ve co-founded The Leadership Visibility Co., a personal branding agency with a difference.

We’re not just marketers. We come from lived experience: knowing what it’s like to have your voice dismissed, your presence questioned, and the emotional labour of being ‘othered’ in leadership spaces.

I started working at 16, with just my GCSEs and a strong will to prove the doubters wrong. My first role at Regus PLC exceeded expectations, financially and professionally, and led me into a long, rich career in advertising. It wasn’t always easy.

In rooms dominated by men, I learned to stand my ground.

She’s bright, passionate, full of cheer and caught in a system that doesn’t flex for kids like her. That’s been heartbreaking.

It’s also shown me how much we need to reimagine systems: in education, in business, in leadership.

to support her, nurture “Visibility, to me, is about Trying my eldest as she flourishes into a strong, curious woman, run a busimore than strategy. It’s ness, and still show up as me - it’s a about making space for the lot. Some days, it’s overwhelming. unheard, the underestimated, But the hardest moments came But it’s also why I do what I do. I and the quietly brilliant.” help people, especially women and later, in senior leadership, when I

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was told to “hair up, heel up, leather up” if I wanted to be taken seriously. That didn’t just jar, it crystallised everything I was no longer willing to perform.

neurodivergent individuals, get visible, with clarity and confidence. Because too often, their stories are the ones left out.

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is this: Authenticity isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Especially when you’re juggling life as a mum to two daughters with very different needs. My youngest was diagnosed with autism last year and hasn’t been able to attend school due to anxiety.

Visibility, to me, is about more than strategy. It’s about making space for the unheard, the underestimated, and the quietly brilliant. It’s personal. It’s political. And it’s possible.

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leadershipvisibility.co.uk

Amy Wonnacott Amy is the Founder of Brighton-based social media agency, Lemon Drizzle

I

’m Amy Wonnacott, the founder of Lemon Drizzle, a social media agency built on the belief that visibility doesn’t have to be overwhelming. My tagline, “making social media a piece of cake,” reflects how I work: practical, human, but fun too. I help businesses of all sizes show up online with confidence and a clear strategy, without feeling pressured to post constantly or perform for the algorithm.

“I was made redundant twice, including just before Christmas from a high-profile role, and those moments forced me to rethink what success really meant to me.”

My journey to running Lemon Drizzle hasn’t been linear. After facing the loss of my mother at 18, I threw myself into varying sales and marketing roles. I was made redundant twice, including just before Christmas from a high-profile role, and those moments forced me to rethink what success really meant to me.

Instead of shrinking back, I chose to rebuild, and Lemon Drizzle grew from that resilience. Today, I work with a diverse range of clients, from creatives and architects to accountants and growth-driven businesses, supporting them with strategy, content and clarity in a very noisy digital world.

business and in writing, is rooted in honesty, reinvention and showing up even when it feels uncomfortable. That’s why I proudly describe myself as the Comeback Queen.” www.lemondrizzlesocial.co.uk @lemondrizzlesocial

Alongside my work in social media, I’m also an author. My debut novel, An Old Wives’ Tale, is available on Amazon and Waterstones and explores relationships, identity and the quiet complexities of today’s influences. Writing allows me to tell stories more deeply and connect with people beyond metrics and analytics.

Everything I do, both in www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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FH E A E TA U L TR H E

“I honestly think entrepreneurship is often misunderstood. So let me tell you what it is for me.” By Marian Evans BEM

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Lessons from launching and scaling a b

A

n entrepreneur is someone who identifies opportunity, mobilises resources, accepts risk and takes responsibility for the outcome. It is a way of thinking, one that makes it difficult not to act when you see potential. Once you recognise how something could work better, more efficiently or more sustainably, it becomes almost impossible to ignore.

That mindset also explains why, like me, most entrepreneurs don’t do it just once. After building a multi-millionpound property business, my instinct was, and still is, to look for what’s next, or how I could improve, build or do things differently. Entrepreneurs tend to be impatient, endlessly curious and alert to opportunity everywhere. We see the risks clearly, but they do not put us off. There is a real thrill in committing, in backing yourself and in turning possibility into reality.

BACKING YOURSELF STARTS WITH KNOWING YOUR NUMBERS Entrepreneurs are often described as risk-takers, but in reality, we are risk-aware rather than reckless. Knowing your figures is non-negotiable. Cash flow, margins, leverage and downside exposure are not details to outsource or review occasionally. They are the difference between control and guesswork.

In property especially, where small miscalculations can have outsized consequences, understanding the numbers allows you to move decisively when an opportunity presents itself, and to walk away when it doesn’t stack up. Backing yourself does not mean ignoring risk. It means understanding it well enough to proceed with conviction, or not proceed at all.

BUILD FOUNDATIONS BEFORE YOU CHASE SCALE One of the biggest mistakes I see entrepreneurs make is scaling too early. Growth amplifies everything, including weaknesses. In the early stages of building any of my businesses, the focus has always been conservative assumptions, disciplined cash management, robust legal structures and sound systems.

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Before scaling, entrepreneurs need to be honest with themselves. Is the business genuinely profitable, not just busy?

Can it withstand market shocks? Does success rely on me personally, or on a system that others can operate? Strong foundations may slow early momentum, but they are what make long-term success possible.

THE ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET DOESN’T SWITCH OFF Entrepreneurial thinking is not something you turn on and off. I still instinctively see inefficiencies, unmet demand and assets that are mispriced or underutilised. That instinct is a strength, but it requires discipline.

MARIAN EVANS BEM

“Entrepreneurs are often described as risk-takers, but in reality, we are risk-aware rather than reckless.”

P INSIGHTS:

business successfully

Entrepreneurs are naturally impatient. We want momentum, progress and improvement. The challenge is not finding opportunities; it is choosing which ones not to pursue.

Focus, not enthusiasm, is what turns potential into value.

One piece of advice I return to again and again is simple: just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Time is your most precious resource.

CASH MATTERS Revenue can flatter, but cash sustains. I have seen many good businesses struggle, not because the idea was wrong, but because liquidity was mismanaged. Strong cash control creates optionality. It allows you to grow on your own

Marian has been recognised in the King’s Honours for her contribution to business. Currently, she serves as Chair of Monmouthshire Building Society, making her one of the few women to lead a financial services board. She has also earned a place on the Forbes Midas List.

Previously, she led Thomas Carroll’s Special Risks Division and held a senior role at NFU Mutual, managing a £58 million portfolio. Marian began investing in property at 18 and now owns a diverse portfolio, including the historic Llansteffan Castle.

Today, she is a Non-Executive Director, executive coach and founder of Elevate Business Consultancy, and a Fellow of both the Institute of Leadership & Management and the Chartered Management Institute. terms, absorb shocks and avoid being forced into poor decisions. Particularly in cyclical sectors, this discipline is fundamental.

SCALING REQUIRES A SHIFT IN LEADERSHIP In the early days, success is driven by effort and execution.

As a business grows, judgment matters more than energy.

Scaling requires letting go of control, trusting others and being willing to evolve your own role.

Strong governance, external challenge and appropriate oversight are not constraints. They are enablers of better decisions. In my advisory work with founders and boards, the businesses that embrace this early are consistently more resilient and more investable. This is what I enjoy most about running an advisory firm: sharing experience and instinct to help other entrepreneurs thrive.

RESILIENCE IS BUILT QUIETLY No entrepreneurial journey is smooth. Deals fall through.

Markets turn. Confidence is tested. What matters is how you respond. For me, resilience comes from consistency, perspective and making rational decisions under pressure.

Some of my toughest periods came while juggling personal demands, starting a family, raising young children and managing health issues. Failure was not an option, so the question was always how to get through it. We learn the most in the toughest times.

FINAL REFLECTION Entrepreneurship is not about speed or perfection. It is about judgment, self-belief and disciplined execution.

Entrepreneurs see risk, but they also see possibility. For most of us, it isn’t something we do once. It is a way of thinking, and once you have it, it rarely leaves you. It’s a strength. Use it wisely.

Marian Evans, Business & Success Coach https://marian-evans.com www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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FE ATURE

By Laurie McPherson

FROM THE GREAT RE

TO THE GREAT R

Y

ou’ll have heard of The Great Resignation, the period during Covid when many women turned their backs on the workplace and started their own businesses in the quest for the purpose, flexibility and joy that were missing in the traditional workplace setup.

Five years on, however, fewer people are talking about The Great Re-Entry - when women leave their businesses to go back to work. Still, it’s happening, and it’s leaving women feeling ashamed, underconfident, and as if they’ve failed in some way.

If you’re starting to wonder if this might be the best option for you, you’re not alone. Women are navigating this dilemma privately every day; they’re just not talking about it, and I want to change that as someone who often mentors women in this position.

A big part of the issue is how business ownership is framed.

It’s seen as the best option for everyone, so many people talk about ‘sacking the boss’ and post on social media pictures of themselves having drinks on a Tuesday afternoon.

That does happen, but what they’re not talking about is the amount of work you might need to do to make that business replace your corporate salary.

Nor do they talk about how long that might take, how much you’ll have to market yourself (usually with no marketing skills or experience) and crucially, how lonely you might feel while doing so, with no colleagues to talk to and bounce ideas off, and no one really understanding what you do, and what you’re aiming for.

“Five years on, fewer people are talking about The Great Re-Entry, and it’s leaving women feeling ashamed, underconfident, and as if they’ve failed in some way.”

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Business coaches often lure people into thinking running a business is easy, but it’s really not. Some people are just not cut out for the rejection, the ebbs and flows, the constant promotion you have to do, and the rapid rate of change in how the platforms you promote yourself on work. This leads women to cling on for much longer than is helpful for them, rather than admitting, “this isn’t for me” and seeking to return to traditional employment.

If you are starting to wonder if all of this is for you, here are some things to think about.

1. Is your business giving you what you need? Is it providing the salary you need, or are you putting in the hours for less than minimum wage? Are you lonely and lacking in routine? Is it flexible, or are you glued to your phone 24/7? Can you change any of this, e.g., with more marketing, finding a business-owner community, and setting (and sticking to) boundaries, or is it time to think about your options?

2. You don’t have to burn it all down. Can you seek out a contract or freelance role with more hours to give you some financial stability while you decide whether the business is a goer? No one makes great decisions from a place of fear or panic, and this might give you the space you need. Let it be known that you’re looking, and for what, as you build the business. There’s no shame in this, and no one who understands will ever judge. And those who do, probably haven’t been brave enough to do what you’ve done in the first place.

3. Remember that whatever decision you make is for now, not forever and with time and space, I’ve seen women go back into their business full-time, as well as some stay in employment, with a side hustle. Both are fine, you need to do what’s best for you.

4. Ignore the business owners who say, “I’m unemployable.” They might be, or they might just prefer to work for themselves. If they had to do something different in order to pay their bills, they’d do what they needed to.

So will you.

“Business coaches often lure people into thinking running a business is easy, but it’s really not.”

ESIGNATION

RE-ENTRY

5. Once you decide, you might well feel relief mixed with sadness. That’s okay. You are making a practical decision that’s right for you now, and there’s never any shame in that, so hold your head high and have a few stock phrases prepared if you need to protect yourself when you are feeling a bit vulnerable. I love “I’m taking stock and looking at my options” as a polite shut-down for the days when you are not quite ready, or not speaking to someone you want to ruminate with.

Business ownership is brilliant when you enjoy it, and when it makes you money - otherwise it’s an expensive and time-consuming hobby. This is your permission slip to go and do what suits you best in 2026 and beyond.

Laurie Macpherson is a career mentor.

Find out more at www.lauriemacpherson.com www.linkedin.com/in/lauriemac

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FE ATURE

W w ru

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia

By Tess de Klerk

S

omething unexpected unfolded in southern Africa in 2025. Namibia begins the new year as the only country in the world where women hold the presidency, vice presidency, and speakership, supported by a cabinet in which women hold most of the top seats. It is the first country in the world where female political representation has reached this level of visibility and influence simultaneously.

The question is not whether this is historic. It is. The question is what happens next.

For years, we have talked about the impact of women in leadership. We have plenty of research linking gender diversity to better decision-making, stronger oversight and more collaborative styles of governance. Yet few governments have reached a point where this is being tested at scale. Namibia now gives us that chance. We have set ourselves an ambitious project to track Namibia’s progress over this year.

This is not about placing pressure on a single country. It is not intended as a report card on Namibia’s overall performance.

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It is about watching what happens when women hold enough political power to shape direction. It is a closer look at whether a government with unusually high female representation behaves differently and, if so, whether that difference shows up in the data. The coming year should offer clues about whether increased female representation can translate into measurable outcomes.

WHAT WE’LL BE TRACKING Rather than attempting to measure everything, we will focus on indicators that are published regularly and widely enough to support our quarterly reporting. Some facts and figures will move quicker than others and some may not move at all but the pattern over time will matter.

POLITICAL POWER How many women hold senior cabinet posts across the year, and which ones? Portfolios such as finance, mines, energy, trade, home affairs and justice carry weight. If women stay in these roles or gain ground during reshuffles, it tells us something about political confidence. If they are moved aside, it tells its own story.

POLICY MOVEMENT Many governments announce ambitious reforms, but fewer manage to carry them through budgets, regulations and

Vice President Lucia Witbooi

hat happens when women un the show? implementation. Here, we will track if major announcements progress into funded plans and whether ministries led by women meet timelines more consistently than others.

ECONOMIC SIGNALS Short-term economic information doesn’t tell a full story, but it does offer a useful baseline. Each quarter, we will monitor: • Inflation • GDP growth updates • Interest rate decisions • Major investment announcements or withdrawals

Speaker of the National Assembly - Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila

leadership leads to better outcomes. Sometimes that claim is made with confidence, sometimes not so much. Namibia isn’t perfect, and its challenges aren’t simple, but women now hold enough authority to influence direction. If improved representation leads to positive shifts, where resources go and how consistently policies are delivered, it should show in the data.

If it does not, that is equally important to understand.

By the end of 2026, we should have a clearer picture of whether high female representation changes how a government behaves once the novelty fades. Do women remain in the roles that matter most? Do policies move more consistently from intention to action? Is governance steadier, even when the numbers move slowly?

This is not a search for neat answers. It is an attempt to move the conversation around women in leadership away from symbolism and towards evidence. Over the next twelve months, we will return with quarterly updates, tracking the same indicators so that patterns become visible.

Namibia may not deliver definitive answers in the short or long term, but for now, the experiment has begun.

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BASELINE JANUARY 2026

Unemployment must feature too, but the only available figures are from an official labour force survey in 2023 that places unemployment at 36.9%. That figure will remain our baseline until new data is released.

Political representation • Women hold the presidency, vice presidency and speakership • Women in cabinet: approximately 57% • Women in parliament: approximately 40–44%

GOVERNANCE AND TRUST Here we will keep an eye on corruption-related scandals and how they’re handled. In other words, not whether they occur but rather what happens when they occur. We will also track the Corruption Perceptions Index and shifts in public opinion if poll results are available.

Economic baseline • Official unemployment rate: 36.9% (2023 labour force survey) • Inflation: around 3.5 % • GDP growth: around 3-4 %

There is a longstanding assumption that more women in

Corruption Perception Index: 49 (59th in the world)

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RE VIE WS

FURTHER READING… HUMAN-FIRST NEURODIVERSITY: CULTIVATING UNDERSTANDING, NOT JUST AWARENESS Dr Samantha Hiew is founder of ADHD Girls, lived experience scientist and author of ‘The Tip of the ADHD Iceberg’.

W

omen in business know what it means to be misunderstood. We’ve built careers inside systems that weren’t designed for our brains, bodies, or biological rhythms. No wonder neurodivergent women, the ones juggling innate intuition, sensory load, lived experience, and leadership, are demanding a new conversation: one that puts our humanity first.

Corporate neurodiversity awareness is everywhere now.

Posters. Policies. Panels. But awareness doesn’t equal understanding - and understanding is what actually keeps people well.

Human-first neurodiversity starts with one truth: We do not show up as neat diagnostic labels. We show up as whole humans with intersecting identities and complex life circumstances.

UNMASKED: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ADHD, AUTISM AND NEURODIVERGENCE

By Ellie Middleton Penguin Books (2023) A very approachable, TikTok-adjacent but substantial guide from autistic and ADHD creator Ellie Middleton.

Written in short, punchy sections for “whizzy brains,” it blends lived experience with explanation of masking, work, mental health, identity and self-diagnosis, aiming to help readers understand themselves and push for a more inclusive world.

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Your nervous system is not just “how you are wired.” It’s a culmination of your innate biological code, the joys, traumas, stress, coping and survival patterns you’ve inherited or lived through, your cultural conditioning, the roles and expectations placed on you, and the hormonal landscape of your current life stage.

All of this changes how you communicate, handle conflict, ask for support, set boundaries, and build relationships at work and everywhere else. That’s why neurodivergent women often experience emotions through the body first: a tight chest before a pitch, a blank mind in a rapid-fire meeting, irritability that is actually sensory overload, or shutdown after carrying the emotional weight of a team. These reactions

ADHD IS AWESOME: A GUIDE TO (MOSTLY) THRIVING WITH ADHD

By Penn Holderness & Kim Holderness HarperCollins ( 2024)

A humorous, highly visual guide that treats ADHD as a difference rather than a defect. The Holdernesses mix memoir, practical strategies and input from ADHD clinicians like Ned Hallowell to cover work, relationships, parenting and self-acceptance, in a layout deliberately designed to suit an ADHD brain.

THE POCKET GUIDE TO NEURODIVERSITY

By Daniel Aherne Jessica Kingsley Publishers (2023) A short, very accessible primer aimed at workplaces and educators. Aherne explains autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia with everyday analogies (including his cactus-in-a-desert metaphor) and focuses on adapting environments instead of “correcting” people. Useful if you want a quick orientation plus concrete, neuroaffirming adjustments.

“Corporate neurodiversity awareness is everywhere now.

Posters. Policies. Panels.

But awareness doesn’t equal understanding...”

aren’t “overreactions.” They’re the nervous system signalling that something isn’t right. And we must listen to these cues.

Layer this on top of cultural or racial identity. A BritishAsian entrepreneur may internalise distress because she was taught to endure. A Black autistic woman may mask more heavily to avoid stereotype threat. A white ADHD founder may express overwhelm outwardly and then shut down because she was never asked to compress or regulate it.

Different conditioning gives rise to different identities, expressed differently, but all our equally human. Human-first neurodiversity means recognising these nuances before they turn into burnout, rupture, or withdrawal.

NINE MINDS: INNER LIVES ON THE SPECTRUM

By Daniel Tammet Profile Books/Wellcome Collection (2024) Essay-style portraits of nine autistic people, written by autistic author and savant Daniel Tammet. Rather than focusing on deficit, he explores emotional depth, creativity and constraint in each life, challenging clinical stereotypes and arguing for autism as part of human cognitive diversity, not a pathology to be “fixed”.

As leaders, compassionate, mindful leadership that is attuned to our human realities helps us develop the skills to notice the nervous system beyond behaviour you can see, reduce unnecessary cognitive load on our teams, normalise boundaries and pauses, create sensory-considered environments, and learn the early signs of overwhelm and respond before things escalate.

When women can access their emotional balance, they become powerful leaders. When workplaces become emotionally literate, people stop performing safety and start experiencing it. Awareness is a checkbox, understanding is culture change, and human-first neurodiversity is the leadership the future demands.

ADHD…NOW WHAT?:

A PRACTICAL SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR ADULTS WITH ADHD

By Katie Friedman, Alex Campbell Jessica Kingsley Publishers (2025) A hands-on guide for ADHD adults navigating daily life, work, relationships and executive challenges. With contributions from lived-experience authors and professionals, this book mixes practical strategies, compassionate reframing and actionable tips designed for neurodivergent strengths and needs.

ADHD FOR SMART ASS WOMEN: HOW TO FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR NEURODIVERGENT BRAIN

By Tracy Otsuka, William Morrow HarperCollins (2024)

A bold, empowering guide tailored to women with ADHD that reframes traits often seen as weaknesses—like distractibility or hyperactivity—as strengths. Drawing on coaching experience and science, Otsuka provides practical tools for focus, selfesteem, productivity, relationships and identity, with plenty of humour and real-world insight

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W E L HL EB A E LI N TH G

Your business success

By Gudiya Dagur Patel

I

n our drive to build businesses, land clients, hit targets, stay visible and create more success, many women entrepreneurs push themselves to their limits for years on end, often forgetting that the greatest asset they have is their own wellbeing. I’ve learned, sometimes the hard way, that without prioritising self-care, ambition can so easily turn into burnout.

As a wellness practitioner and entrepreneur with more than 15 years in integrative health, blending clinical nutrition, mindfulness, breathwork and business strategy, I’ve seen through my own experience and the experiences of others that self-care is not a luxury. It is the foundation that allows success to be sustainable.

Earlier phases of my life were entirely about drive and achievement. I was ambitious, focused and determined, yet often running on empty. It took my own health crises (I

have twice overcome kidney cancer) to show me the truth.

Without health, there is no success worth having.

Too often, women in business push on under constant pressure, ignoring the quiet voice that tells them they need to rest. We fall into late nights, endless to-do lists, constant hustle and the pressure to be all things to all people. From the outside, it may look like momentum. Inside, it is stress on the nervous system, drained energy and a gradual erosion of wellbeing.

You might eat well, sleep (somewhat) and exercise, but if your nervous system is stuck in survival mode, those efforts only patch symptoms rather than addressing root causes.

That is why I now combine nutrition and lifestyle with mindfulness, breath-work and self-awareness. True transformation begins when both body and mind are supported.

For smart entrepreneurs, taking care of your mind, body and spirit becomes a business strategy in itself. A focus on wellbeing can deliver: • Resilience and clarity: Mindfulness, breath-work and nervous system regulation bring calm, better decision-making and a stronger ability to handle pressure.

• Creativity and energy: When you are rested and grounded,

“I’ve seen through my own experience and the experiences of others that selfcare is not a luxury. It is the foundation that allows success to be sustainable.”

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s depends on self-care creativity flows, and you can step back to see the bigger picture rather than operating from survival mode.

• Long-term sustainability: Hustle alone is not success.

Chronic stress or blurry boundaries eventually reduce productivity or lead to health issues.

• Authentic leadership: When you feel balanced, you show up more whole. That authenticity resonates with clients, collaborators and partners.

Years ago, I was all business, intense ambition, targets, building a London clinic and feeling increasingly depleted.

Then life pushed back. Two serious health crises forced me to pause and recalibrate.

I realised that wellbeing is not a checklist of healthy meals or gym sessions. I was already doing those things.

Real wellbeing comes from aligning your nervous system and your inner world with your outer goals.

15 minutes counts. Boundaries prevent silent burnout.

• Rest and reset: Prioritise sleep and downtime. Your brain and body need breaks to renew, so rest becomes a quiet but powerful success tool.

• Connect and reflect: Speak to friends, mentors or a coach.

Get used to sharing feelings, challenges and wins rather than carrying everything alone.

• Integrate wellbeing into work: Don’t treat self-care as separate from business. Let it shape the rhythm of how you work and support your team to do the same.

If you are a woman building a business, your drive, intelligence and ambition are powerful, but they only take you so far. Deeper success comes when you invest in yourself.

Your business rests on you, your mental strength, physical health and emotional resilience. Those foundations are yours to build.

“I learned that true wealth is health, clarity and balance, and that internal alignment is what allows a business to flourish sustainably.”

My own journey led me to merge my wellness knowledge with my business acumen, founding retreats, coaching women and leading the holistic health division within my clinic. Through that process, I learned that true wealth is health, clarity and balance, and that internal alignment is what allows a business to flourish sustainably.

If you want to build a business that lasts rather than one that burns you out, start with simple, actionable self-care habits: • Mindful pauses: Schedule five to ten minutes a day for breath-work or mindful stillness. It resets your nervous system faster than caffeine and supports clarity and calm.

• Nourish, don’t just fuel: Eat in a way that supports brain and body. Hydrate well and choose foods that genuinely energise you.

• Move with intention: Choose movement that feels good rather than punishing workouts. Walk, stretch, practise yoga or dance, anything that supports circulation, mood and energy.

• Boundaries and balance: Say no when you need to.

Delegate where possible. Protect time for yourself, even

You can find out more about Gudiya at www.gudiyawellness.com or on Instagram @wellnesswithgudiya.

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ABOUT GUDIYA DAGUR PATEL

Gudiya Dagur is a wellness expert with more than 15 years of experience in holistic health, aesthetics and mindfulness. She is the Managing Director of the multi-award-winning PHI Clinic on Harley Street in London and founder of Gudiya Wellness. With qualifications in Clinical Nutrition, Transformational Coaching and Mindfulness, she blends science-backed practices with Ayurvedic and naturopathic principles. Her personalised, heart-led approach helps clients cultivate balance, inner peace and authentic wellbeing.

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ART

Clay paintings The artworks of Isabel Merrick

By Kellie Miller Isabel Merrick’s artistic career spans nearly 30 years. She lives in the Devonshire countryside, close to local coastlines. She is sensitive to seasonal changes and her environment, and both influence her work.

The seasons not only determine her colour palette, but also dictate a rhythm and method of working. She uses the winter months to hunker down in her studio and produce her art—a form of hibernation. Whereas, come the spring and summer months, she is ready to reveal her creations at various exhibitions and events she has planned and to be more social.

Harbour

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She says, “Expanding the palette, helping towards exploring ways to convey my view of the environment I live in.

A bit like using a telescope to look into the details of the landscape, deconstructing the elements of the countryside.

Looking at the season’s colour and light changes. The chaos of a hedge or the strength and power of a tree created with its presence, and then reconstructing and simplifying those images to portray the energy and feeling of a thing.”

She deeply connects with nature, not just visually, but also in how it grows, develops, and forms. There is an evident synergy between how she creates, nature and time. The appreciation that spending moments in nature slows time, but it also takes time to birth an idea or creation.

Accompanied by her dog, she roams to collect ideas, using photography and plein-air sketches to record a visual diary ofStrata changes in nature and the seasons.

During these ramblings, Isabel will collect leaves, twigs, and moss to serve as a starting point for the work. By magnifying, simplifying and capturing the overall sense of nature in all its beauty, she includes rolling hills and landscapes onto the surface of the clay. Using simple domestic forms, she transforms them into three-dimensional paintings.

Building her visual diary through recording ideas in her sketchbooks is a central component of her creative dialogue and in the development of new ceramic work.

Working in a painterly way with coloured slips and incorporating mark-making elements such as Sgraffito, Isabel finds a new visual narrative for the environment she lives in through her ceramic art.

Kellie Miller is an artist, curator, critic and gallery owner.

Kellie Miller Arts, 3 Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UJ. kelliemillerarts.com

“The seasons not only determine her colour palette, but also dictate a rhythm and method of working. ”

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H TE R A LV TE H L

T

here are places that hold us in their thrall long after we’ve left their shores, and Bazaruto Island is precisely that for me. Returning after decades, I understood why my father considered this sliver of Mozambican paradise his sanctuary - a destination he sought out repeatedly throughout his life.

Part of the Bazaruto Archipelago, this 37-kilometre stretch of sand dunes and turquoise waters sits off Mozambique’s coast like a fever dream of what a tropical island should be. Unlike the manicured resorts that dominate so much of the Indian Ocean, Bazaruto retains an almost prehistoric wildness.

Huge dunes tower over pristine beaches, freshwater lakes shimmer inland and the surrounding marine reserve teems with dugongs, turtles and over 2,000 species of fish.

The vibe is decidedly barefoot luxury - sophisticated yet unpretentious.

The island operates on a different temporal plane entirely.

Days melt into one another in the best possible way: sunrise dhow cruises, snorkelling kaleidoscopic reefs, horse riding

“The island operates on a different temporal plane entirely.

Days melt into one another in the best possible way...”

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Baz

RETUR

along endless beaches or simply surrendering to the rhythm of the tides. The local fishermen still use traditional methods, and watching their carved wooden boats glide across the water at sunrise feels like something eternal.

For those wanting the ultimate Bazaruto experience, Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort offers beachfront villas that blend modern design with African touches. The property spreads across its own peninsula, offering both seclusion and full-service indulgence.

zaruto ISLAND

RN TO PARADISE

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Alternatively, Azura Benguerra - technically on neighbouring Benguerra Island but worth mentioning - delivers a more intimate experience with just 20 villas and a refreshingly personal approach to hospitality.

For something more accessible, Bazaruto Lodge provides comfortable accommodation without the eye-watering price tag, though facilities are more rustic.

The island differs depending on when you visit. June through October brings dry weather, magnificent whale watching and ideal conditions for diving and snorkelling, though temperatures can be slightly cooler.

November through March offers warmer seas perfect for swimming, occasional tropical rains and proper scorching temperatures. April and May occupy a sweet spot with fewer tourists, pleasant temperatures and generally cooperative weather. The sea remains warm year-round, between 24 and 28 degrees.

“Getting there isn’t simple, which partially explains why Bazaruto remains uncrowded.”

Getting there isn’t simple, which partially explains why Bazaruto remains uncrowded. From the UK, you’ll fly to Johannesburg (roughly 11 hours), then catch a connecting flight to Vilankulo on Mozambique’s coast (about 90 minutes). From Vilankulo, it’s a scenic helicopter transfer or boat journey to the island. Yes, it’s a schlep, but that’s rather the point. Places this special should require effort.

Don’t leave without experiencing a dhow safari at sunset.

There’s something transcendent about sailing these waters in vessels barely changed since Arabic traders first plied these routes centuries ago.

The snorkelling and diving here rank among Africa’s finest, particularly around Two Mile Reef, where the coral gardens flourish in impossible colours. If you’re fortunate enough to spot dugongs grazing on seagrass beds, consider it a profound privilege- these gentle marine mammals are increasingly rare.

Standing on Bazaruto’s beaches, I finally understood my 44

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father’s repeated pilgrimages. Some destinations offer escape; others offer perspective. Bazaruto provides both. Its natural beauty is so overwhelming that it borders on the spiritual.

slows, worries recede and the essential things, and you can’t help but reconnect to yourself and nature. My father knew what he was doing, returning again and again.

The island hasn’t changed much since childhood, and that constancy feels increasingly precious in our accelerating world. It remains what it’s always been: a place where time

Now, so do I. Hanle Albertyn was talking to Tess de Klerk

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DINE & WINE

TARO Brighton

By Charlin Thompson Taro describes itself as an everyday dining room and, in Japanese, that is exactly what the word means. It is a useful starting point because it tells you what to expect. This is not a place trying to wow you or reinvent Japanese food for Brighton. It is about familiar dishes, done well, in a setting you could come back to regularly.

The story begins in London, where Mr Taro opened his first restaurant in the late 1990s. At the time, Japanese food in

the UK felt far less everyday than it does now. It was often expensive and saved for the odd night out. His idea was simple. Create relaxed restaurants serving honest Japanese cooking at prices that make repeat visits a realistic option.

The group has grown steadily over the years by sticking to that idea. Brighton’s branch, which opened in September 2025, feels like a natural next step rather than a big statement opening.

Inside, the space is unfussy. There is a gentle background buzz without it ever feeling loud. Tables are close but not cramped, and it works well for dinner, especially midweek.

Nothing is trying too hard here. It feels comfortable and easy, which is precisely what you want from a place like this.

The menu is long. Very long. Sushi, sashimi, ramen, donburi, teppan dishes and a hefty list of starters all sit side by side. Usually, that can be a warning sign, but here it works.

These are familiar dishes, clearly laid out and cooked with

“The menu is long. Very long.

Sushi, sashimi, ramen, donburi, teppan dishes and a hefty list of starters all sit side by side.”

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confidence rather than flair. It feels like a menu built for regulars, not for showing off.

We started with sushi and yakitori. My tuna maki roll was very good. The pieces were small and neat, properly bitesized, with a good ratio of tuna to rice. The rice was well seasoned, and nothing felt heavy or overworked. It disappeared quickly.

From the starter section, the grilled chicken yakitori arrived in a portion that felt more generous than expected. It could easily pass for a light main. The chicken was juicy, lightly charred and simply seasoned. No fuss, no distractions, just good cooking.

“Inside, the space is unfussy.

There is a gentle background buzz without it ever feeling loud.”

For mains, my friend ordered the beef teriyaki. It arrived on a hot plate with rice and seasonal vegetables, still gently sizzling. The beef was reasonably tender and tasty, with a teriyaki sauce that was balanced rather than overly sweet. It was comforting and filling without being too much.

I went for one of Mr Taro’s special ramen dishes, the Kumamoto tonkotsu. This is a rich pork broth ramen with black garlic oil and fried garlic. It was deeply satisfying and filling, exactly what you want from a tonkotsu. The broth had depth without being overwhelming, and the garlic added richness rather than dominating the dish. A proper, warming bowl of ramen.

Dessert stayed simple. We shared one ball of green tea ice cream and one of purple yams. The green tea was clean and familiar, but the purple yam was the standout. It had a surprising depth of flavour and was absolutely delicious.

We drank Ozeki sake. It was not the smoothest or best I have ever had, but we chose the cheapest option, and, with sake, price often reflects quality. It did the job and worked well enough with the food.

We did not skimp on the meal, and the bill came to £84 including service. For dinner in central Brighton (Ship Street), with several courses and drinks, that feels fair.

Brighton has plenty of Japanese restaurants, but Taro sits comfortably in the middle ground. Relaxed, reliable and easy to like, it delivers precisely what its name suggests. An everyday dining room you could happily return to.

Taro Brighton 60 Ship Street, Brighton BN1 1AE Tel: 01273 524003 www.tarorestaurants.uk/locations/brighton www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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TH OE RA QL T UH E GIRL

“Its stealth-like arrival into my drive was rather like a miniature Sherman tank minus the gun turret pointing at me.”

Cupra Terramar 2.0 TSI – 265PS 4 Drive

H

aving now reviewed two Cupras in succession – the Tavascan and the Terramar - it has been interesting to see the significant effort and investment that have gone into the collective branding activity for Cupra. Apparently, it’s aimed at a younger, more style-conscious customer base, through extensive advertising and sponsorship of music festivals in Europe and the America’s Cup, to help position Cupra as a cool, outdoor disruptor. And an expensive one at that.

I stop short of agreeing it is a cool brand, as I think it is almost trying too hard to be one, and as we know, that is not the essence of cool.

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So, this Terramar range, built at Audi’s Gyor plant in Hungary and currently one of the strongest performing cars in the Volkswagen group, is in fact one of Cupra’s last ever combustion engine SUVs to be produced before the Volkswagen group transitions the Cupra brand to become fully electric by 2030.

“You are certainly not going to miss the Cupra design, tyres, logo and full bar tail light So what is it like to drive? Its when you are out and about” stealth-like arrival into my drive

What lets it down is that the aggressive, sci-fi design and slightly tacky parts of the interior lack the clever design understatement required for ‘cool’.

You are certainly not going to miss the Cupra design, tyres, logo and full bar tail light when you are out and about, as it most certainly does stand out amongst the growing melee of SUVs on the road today. The Terramar definitely shouts “look at me taking up the road”, but it’s not a glance I hold for long, I am afraid.

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The Terramar gets its name from the historic Autodrome de Stiges, Terramar, a legendary racetrack built in 1923 near Barcelona in Spain. Terramar translates to ‘land and sea’, reflecting the vehicle’s performance and its connection to its Catalan roots.

was rather like a miniature Sherman tank minus the gun turret pointing at me. You definitely know the Terramar has arrived, and it would not be out of place in a Bond villain’s Russian military base. It has presence and is almost distinguished, so why did I not take to it as I hoped I might ?

At 0–62 mph in 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 151 mph, my expectations were met, and its handling is sharp. Still,

TECH STUFF Model tested: Cupra Terramar V1 2.0 TSI Power: 265 bhp Speed: 0-62 - 5.9 secs Top: 151 mph Economy: 32.1 mpg Price from: £38,995

it felt surprisingly heavy (reminding me of some of the early electric SUVs I have tested) and, as a result, felt really quite uncomfortable on uneven roads and potholes.

My biggest concern with this car – as it was with the Tavascan – is that it is difficult to judge how much pressure you need to apply to the brake pedal. Whilst it did take some getting used to, that lag could be the difference between you and an accident, and it is a whole heap of car to crash as well.

It comes in a confusing array of trims and engines, and I recommend getting hold of their 48-page manual and doing more research than normal before embarking on a purchase.

In a nutshell, there are several types of engine: three V1 engines (RRP – from £37,995); three V2 engines (RRP – from £40,590); two VZ1 engines (RRP – from £47,815); and finally, two VZ2 engines (£50,555). If you are a fan of sailing, there are also 1,337 limited-edition units of the America’s Cup version available.

It was not the most memorable of drives, but I have a feeling that, from now on, it may lead the charge over the Volkswagen Tiguan as a family car, by sheer force of its marketing, if nothing else.

7.0 YAY +

/10

• A 540-litre boot, which can extend to 630 litres if you push the rear seats forward.

• You need to adjust the boot door height. At 6ft tall, even I had a stretch to reach the button to close it – so whilst it’s great to have head clearance for a change and place for big items in the boot, you will need to adjust the height to suit you • Sustainably crafted and good-looking upholstery • Good safety record

NAY – • Huge blind spots in the back rear corners.

• You know it when you go over bumps and pot holes – it feels rather like a carbon bike frame • Hard shell on the backs of the front seats – not great for your knees

As a lifelong fan of Volkswagen, I wish I could will myself to love it more, but I am left with the feeling that the cross-pollination of the SEAT, Audi and Volkswagen design and engineering features has not quite worked on this occasion. www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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W H AHTE' A S LO TN H

LEATHERHEAD

BUSINESS WOMEN IN SURREY NETWORKING BREAKFAST A supportive morning meet-up for women across Surrey, featuring speaker Nicci Clark, founder of RE:NOURISH. She shares insights on leadership, resilience and building a purpose-led brand, with plenty of time for open networking over breakfast.

CRAWLEY

SUSSEX CHAMBER – MANOR ROYAL DROP-IN HUB

Fetcham Park, Leatherhead, Surrey February 4th www.surrey-chambers.co.uk/event-listing/event-detail

Open to all local businesses seeking practical guidance on trading, payroll, HR, international trade and growth. Frequent drop-in sessions hosted by chamber advisors lighten the earlyyear load for SMEs. Manor Royal, Crawley January 13th www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk/ events-training/events.html

WHAT’S ON...

A brief snapshot of art and culture in the region GUILDFORD

THE GREAT JAZZ GUITARISTS OF THE 1960S Guitarists Nicolas Meier and Pete Roth invite you to join them as they take a look at the great guitarists of the 1960s. Expect an invigorating afternoon with the beautiful sound of the guitar duo exploring many standards of jazz.

The Guildford Institute January 15th www.guildford-institute.org.uk/event/ the-great-jazz-guitarists-of-the-60s-gi-25-166

DORKING

BRING YOUR OWN BABY COMEDY A popular baby-friendly comedy club where adults enjoy a hilarious stand-up show while babies up to 15 months are welcome. There’s buggy parking and baby-friendly facilities, and the line-up features professional comedians in a relaxed daytime setting — perfect for parents seeking laughter without childcare stress.

Dorking Halls, Reigate Road, Dorking, Surrey January 14th www.byobcomedy.com/area/dorking

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HORSHAM

‘LITTLE SUSSEX’ HISTORY TALK & QUIZ WITH KEVIN NEWMAN Dive into Sussex history with this engaging talk and quiz exploring quirky tales from the county’s past. Includes Q&A, refreshments and learning with local historian Kevin Newman.

Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, Nr Horsham January 17th www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk UCKFIELD

ASHDOWN FOREST FIVE AND TEN-MILE SERIES – RACE 2 Run through scenic trails in the second race of this winter series across Ashdown Forest’s stunning landscapes. Suitable for runners seeking winter fitness goals and a community atmosphere.

Uckfield January 25th www.visitsoutheastengland.com/events/ whats-on-in-sussex

HASTINGS

LONDON SYMPHONIC ROCK ORCHESTRA Experience classic rock anthems reimagined by a full symphony orchestra. Iconic hits from bands such as Led Zeppelin and Metallica are given epic, larger-thanlife arrangements — ideal for music lovers seeking an imaginative orchestral twist on guitar-driven classics.

White Rock Theatre, Hastings January 11th www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk/whats-on/event/ london-symphonic-rock-orchestra-2026

BRIGHTON

THE ETERNAL SHAME OF SUE PERKINS You may know her as Bake-Off Sue, Taskmaster Sue, Just A Minute Sue, or the Sue that gives you travel envy - but stand-up Sue is full of surprises. In this brand-new show, she shares the unlikely happenings from a career in the spotlight.

Brighton Dome January 31st www.brightondome.org www.platinummediagroup.co.uk

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