Let’s celebrate the entrepreneurs!
Every year, August 21st celebrates World Entrepreneur’s Day and it will tend to bring out those who love or hate the very word ‘entrepreneur’. At Scott Media, it’s a word we love.
Every great business starts with an idea—and behind every idea is an entrepreneur – or a few – willing to take a risk, solve a problem, and turn a vision into reality. World Entrepreneurs’ Day is an opportunity to celebrate these individuals and leaders who create businesses, drive change, and inspire others to think differently. For us, it doesn’t matter how large or small that business is. If it makes a profit, employs a person, even the owner, and moves a dial for one single person, it counts.
Entrepreneurs play a vital role in shaping our economies and communities. This World Entrepreneurs’ Day, let’s take a moment to recognise their efforts, celebrate their successes and explore what it really takes to turn an idea into something that can make a difference.
Here at Scott Media, we are lucky to know and collaborate with many creative and inspiring people. Some of whom are speakers at business events for organisations of all sizes and across a range of topics. Today, we are taking this opportunity to share some details and celebrate just a few who have stories to tell and who don’t shy away from telling them – not because they are boasting but because they want to make a difference – and make money too. Here are just six that we are working with today.
Julianne Ponan MBE has helped transform how we understand food allergies through powerful advocacy and innovative entrepreneurship. When diagnosed with severe anaphylaxis at age two, she is allergic to peanuts, all tree nuts, sesame, chickpeas and more. After experiencing around 14 emergency visits to the hospital by age eight, Julianne channelled her experiences into building ‘Creative Nature’ a top 14 allergen-free food brand. Her mission is an important one, hoping to build and raise awareness for severe allergic reactions which are often deadly. Julianne believes the national curriculum should cover an understanding of allergy awareness nationwide. Recognised with an MBE in the 2023 New Year King’s Honours for her contributions to business, export and allergy advocacy, Julianna bridges the worlds of entrepreneurship and public health to create safer spaces for the allergy community.
Rachel Bedgood, is a tech entrepreneur who founded Complete Background Screening and embodies entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking. From starting her business at just 23 to building a multi-million-pound enterprise, Rachel’s journey demonstrates how commitment, caring, and curiosity can transform a simple idea into extraordinary success – though she admits it’s hard work along the way. As the founder and CEO of Complete Background Screening (CBS), one of the UK’s largest and most respected background screening providers, she combines technical expertise with people-centred leadership to create a meaningful impact in business and beyond.
Becky Wall BEM is an award-winning entrepreneur, events expert, community and champion of all things ‘toilets’ or ‘washrooms’. Becky transforms event experiences through innovation, quality, and meticulous attention to detail. Her entrepreneurial journey from events manager to founder of two successful businesses showcases her ability to identify market gaps and deliver exceptional solutions. As Co- Managing Director of the prestigious Loo of the Year Awards, Becky combines practical business acumen with a commitment to excellence that elevates industry standards. Her recognition with the British Empire Medal (BEM) for charitable contributions demonstrates her dedication to making a positive impact both professionally and in her community.
Armed with an accounting and finance degree, Arthur Dallimer has transformed from a teenage property investor to one of Wiltshire’s most innovative real estate experts and also a serial entrepreneur with a strong focus on arts, music and culture. His philosophy centres on maximising property potential while contributing to community development. His portfolio spans 26 successful projects across Swindon, Bristol, and Wiltshire, including the landmark current restoration of Swindon’s former Museum and Arthur Gallery.
Dave Southby, of Southby & Co, exemplifies the transformative power of authentic client relationships in financial services. As a top-rated advisor recognised by The Sunday Times, he brings (with his team) a uniquely grounded perspective to wealth management, shaped by his journey from mechanic to award-winning financial specialist. His team’s recent recognition with the 2024 Positive Business Award highlights his commitment to combining professional excellence with community impact.
Andrew Wilkinson, of Secure Safety Solutions, transforms workplace safety from a compliance burden to a competitive advantage. As founder of Secure Safety Solutions, he brings extensive experience across manufacturing, construction, warehousing, IT installations, retail, and food sectors to help organisations create genuinely safer, more productive environments. His hands-on, client-centred approach has earned him recognition as the health and safety professional that businesses ‘run towards’ when they need expert support – delivering practical solutions that work in everyday life, not just on paper.
The entrepreneurs all encapsulate the power of being an entrepreneur and we’re proud to work with them – some for many years. This list is by no means exhaustive – look out for more stories about our family of clients!