What a result!

I am thrilled to announce that I was awarded Runner-Up in the 10th Annual RAU Enterprise Grand Idea competition (www.thegrandidea.co.uk). The competition awards only two prizes in the Grand Idea category and involved the creation of a detailed business plan, creation of a financial budget and a formal pitch to a panel of expert judges: Denys Shortt OBE, Christine Cross of Christine Cross Ltd., Prof. Jo Price, Vice Chancellor of the RAU, Ian Wilkinson of Cotswold Seeds, and Gillian Higgins of Horses Inside Out. 

I am really encouraged by their kind feedback and praise for my art. It's a huge boost to have people from the business world express confidence in my work and vision for the future. Got to 'bottle that feeling' for the hard days of work ahead! 👌🏼 To have been awarded the runner-up prize out of what was a very strong selection of finalists makes me very proud. The experience I gained from taking part will be very insightful and helpful for future pitches and meetings, and the award will aid my business by providing funding and expert advice to help me achieve my goals.

The award sits pride of place on my desk to remind me of that brilliant day and inspire me to continue to work hard! 

Congratulations to all finalists, and particularly the winning business, Bijimini. I am hugely thankful to the RAU Enterprise programme for the opportunity to have taken part in the Grand Idea 2017. 

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On another note, plans are afoot for the creation of a collection of fine bone china mugs. I have had a brilliant meeting with a ceramic printing company, and I hope to be able to share more information with you in the coming weeks! Keep checking back for more.