3 minute read
Women in Industry
A look at PLC mother LUCY WRIGHT, GEORGIE SWALES,
The New England Collective
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An interview with Tracy Wright on local entrepreneurship
1. What inspired you want to start this business? We started this business as we wanted to create a space where small creative businesses could have the opportunity to break into the retail market. Rent is a huge cost and most people cannot commit to a commercial lease and the time it takes to run a business.
By starting the business, we provided a space for many local creatives to build their business and increase their financial input into their households. Most of our makers were mums, so this increase in income was a great boost to them both personally and professionally. It meant that they felt they were making a valued contribution to their families which is so important for their self esteem.
2. What’s the most rewarding thing about having your own business? The satisfaction of knowing that all of your hard work is making a difference to other people within the community and beyond. We have provided a space where people feel comfortable and excited about the range of products we offer. The feedback we get from locals and visitors make it all worth while. I go home and know that I have made a difference which is very satisfying. 3. Do you think being a woman in this specific industry is harder or easier than it is for men? There are generally more women in retail than men so I actually feel that we have the advantage here. We are not opposed to employing men in the business as they would offer a different dynamic. I do, however, think in our type of business, being a women can be an advantage as people coming into the shop often want to chat, sometimes about quite personal matters, and they may not be as comfortable doing this with a male.
4. Would you recommend to others to start their own business? I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is self motivated and is prepared to ride the waves of running a business. We love what we do and we are continuing to grow and expand our business. The pride and satisfaction this gives us is unbelievable. You learn so much about yourself and other people in a business which means that this experience is helping you to grow and bring others up with you.
s working in industry EMMA THOMPSON, SARAH WATERS
Women in Agriculture
An interview with PLC parents in agriculture
Has a role in Agriculture been something that you have always wanted to do and was it something you felt/didn’t feel pressured into? Ange: I have always wanted to be involved in Agriculture as I loved growing up on our family farm and couldn't have imagined doing anything else. I didn’t feel pressure into having a career in agriculture and I chose to go to Agricultural College and pursue employment in this field.
Sarah: I never envisaged a career in agriculture.There was no pressure to enter the industry, it was a journey I was excited to take on.
What is a message you would give to young women looking to pursue a role in agriculture? Angie: I think that if it is something that you love you should definitely pursue it. I am a strong believer in the fact that if you find something you love you will never work a day in your life. Never settle for what other people want you to be and just keep working at what you want. There are so many job opportunities in agriculture now- it is not just being a farmer anymore.
Ange: Go for it! You can achieve great things in the various sectors in the agricultural industry and anything is possible if you want it enough. Follow your dreams. Do you feel as though there are different expectations for you compared to your male counterparts? Sarah: I don’t think expectations differ between gender. Everyone has a role and is expected to do their best. Each individual brings their own strengths in certain areas.
Angie: Growing up in the industry I have always felt like an equal. For me personally, it has never been anyone else putting the pressure on me except for myself. I was always encouraged to voice my opinions and stand up for what I believe and this has really helped me to see myself as equal in my industry.
