Women’s networking group celebrates members’ successes

A women’s networking group, which is backed by several Marketing Derby Bondholders, has been celebrating the success of its members.

Since Derby’s Finest launched in March 2017, its committee has been focused on inspiring, encouraging and celebrating women of all ages.

It has also given its backing to several local charities, including YMCA Derbyshire, Children First Derby and Safe & Sound.

Together, the members – led by the committee of Smith Partnership’s Claire Twells and Sophie Shapcott, social media expert Karen Cureton, Kim Radley, of Barclays, and Amanda Strong – have helped hundreds of people in the city and county.

Amanda, company ambassador for Little Eaton-based Mercia Image Print, said: “It’s so uplifting to see the mutual support and encouragement that the group shares, and we’re excited about the future of Derby’s Finest as we approach our fifth year and adopt a more formal membership structure.

“We want to continue to empower women while raising much-needed funds for charities in the city and county; community is important to us.

“Over the past year we have held several fundraising events including a ‘live’ bingo evening, where the £1,500 raised on the night was match-funded by Derby-based Cosy Direct.

“It was a real team-effort to get up and running, as it was held online during lockdown, and Sarah Loates, of Loates HR, was instrumental in making that particular event a success.”

During the coronavirus pandemic, the group’s members have worked together to build their businesses, with several being recognised for their efforts with industry awards.

Some of those who have worked together include Natalie Bamford, of personalised gift company Colleague Box, Sarah Newton and Kerry Ganly of Derby public relations company Penguin PR, Calm in a Box founder Sarah Markham, photographer Laura Firth of Covid start-up MiniAperture Photography and graphic designer Laura Parry, of Parry Creative.

Claire Twells said: “Our aspirations for the future are to continue to inspire the female entrepreneurs of the future with support, expertise and through working together to succeed in business.

“It is wonderful to see so many of our members working in collaboration and we are looking forward to more successful partnerships and welcoming more inspirational women to our group.”