First female Dragon to give keynote speech on her remarkable journey
THE first female dragon in the hit BBC TV series Dragons’ Den will speak at the South West’s largest business event this month. Rachel Elnaugh, who appeared in series one and two, will be delivering a keynote speech at the Business Showcase South West in Bristol on October 10. The founder of Red Letter Days will be talking about the highs and lows of her business journey. She will discuss creating a multi-million pound turnover market-leading business at the age of 24 on a shoestring budget – and then losing it 16 years later, opening up new opportunities as a business mentor, speaker and author. Rachel said: “I am delighted to be coming to the South West to talk about my journey and hopefully encourage and inspire others. “I will be sharing the key teachings which will help you on your own business journey – whether you are at start-up, facing the challenges of growth, or currently struggling to keep your business afloat. Showcase founder Jamie Breese said: “I have watched the TV series Dragons’ Den since the first episode. It was always inspiring and I remember watching Rachel strike deals. “It’s certainly become one of the best-loved TV shows in British TV history. “The best speakers, I find, have lessons to share and aren’t afraid to tell it how it is (and was), even if it means revisiting some more difficult memories. “I know that business leaders are made, not born, and I am excited to welcome such a prestigious figure to our event.” The Business Showcase South West is now five years old and is free because of the support of businesses who partner or sponsor each event. Bristol-based Doveton Press is a new official partner, while other sponsors include Blackstar Solutions, Weston College, Regus, West of England Growth Hub, Cabot Circus, Xero and HSBC. Richard Bearman, HSBC’S UK head of small business will be speaking at the event. He leads a team of around 400 people serving 825,000 small business customers across the UK. He said: “I’m delighted to be speaking at the Business Showcase event as part of our ongoing commitment to supporting local British business as they realise their growth ambitions. “This event is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to showcase their offering and meet with likeminded entrepreneurs.” Showcase founder Mr Breese added: “It’s just a few weeks away now and I am expecting our bestever attendance. “If you are in business, are returning to business, want to be in business or are running a major business to an SME, the Business Showcase South West is a day-long networking opportunity – you can have lunch in the XERO Networking Café, attend expert-led workshops, take part in speed networking and meet thousands of businesses all looking to get things done. It’s an event to celebrate the best of the South West and everyone is invited.” The Business Showcase South West, which is supported by Bath Chronicle publisher Reach plc, is taking place at Ashton Gate Stadium on Wednesday, October 10, from 10am to 4pm. There will be 260 exhibition stands taken by businesses from across the South West and the organisers are expecting over 5,500 plus attendees. Rachel Elnaugh will be speaking on the main stage at 12.30pm. For information on booking free tickets, visit www.businessshowcasesouthwest.com.
I will be sharing the key teachings which will help you on your own business journey.