I have been running my own business for the past 22 years and joined FSB very soon after taking over the business. Ten years ago I decided to widen my horizons and become active within FSB by volunteering in Conwy branch.  I have served as branch secretary and on the regional committee. Through this I have gained experience in attending and organising meetings,  the ability to quickly understand issues raised, and consider them from a wider general business point of view rather than just my own immediate sector. 

My volunteer activity with FSB has been varied and exciting; meeting politicians across local and national governments, hosting events, and even finding myself on stage in front of hundreds of people. It’s sometimes challenging, always dynamic and very rewarding. Not only has my FSB volunteer activity enabled me to fulfil my ambition as a community builder, but it’s given me opportunities I would never have otherwise had. It’s developed me personally and been good for my business too.

I passionately believe in speaking out in order to bring about change and that this can best be achieved as an FSB volunteer. As Area Lead, I've been invited to comment in local and national media, on everything from the implications of Brexit on staffing for remote rural businesses, to business rates, to the proposed tourist bed tax, to public toilet closures and the North Coast 500.