Every year, and honestly most days, I think about the statistics for women in business. I loathe the phrase “women in business”. We are humans in business, all of us.
I get angry about the lack of access, the lack of funding, and what could be possible if things were different for us.
Those numbers and the work around them matter deeply and it would feel remiss running a business as a woman not to highlight them.
But the world feels so heavy that it also feels remiss to simply call them out, raise awareness and keep going. It can start to feel empty.
The world is unequal. That is a given and I absolutely hate it. Progress is slow.
But I want to stay hopeful. To recognise and honour the work that has been done so far, and the things I’m proud of, if it helps anyone keep trying and holding the fuck on.
The only way forward is collaboration, not more division.
Running Positive Retail has introduced me to extraordinary people and my world is so much better because of it. Designers, founders, artists, brands, shopkeepers, big ass retailers, journalists, community builders and finance people. Many of them building things that didn’t exist before.
We need that energy and creativity in the world more than ever.
I’m incredibly proud of our (mainly) female team. Their commitment, creativity and plucky point of view.
Something that also made me proud was when a consultant recently said to me, “Anna, you’ve created a space where people collaborate, are listened to and treat each other with respect. It’s rare.”
In other places I wasn’t always able to have that impact. But in my own company I can.
More than ever people need to feel heard, valued and like they matter. Because we all do.
If you’re wondering what you can do that’s helpful for women today, please consider supporting our partner charity Oasis, who provide practical support for women and families experiencing domestic abuse and homelessness in Kent.
If you’re able to donate today, even a small amount makes a difference.
Real change happens when we look after each other.
Anna x
