EasyJet founder Sir Stelios awarded £300,000 to transform nursing, baking and logistics to disabled entrepreneurs
Sir Stelios Haji-ioannou, founder of EasyJet, celebrates the innovation, resilience and impact of the British business community, awarded three inspiring entrepreneurs with disabilities awarded by Stelios at the 17th Annual Stelios, celebrating the innovation, resilience and influence of the UK business community.
The highest award of £150,000 is awarded to Umbreen David, founder of Hoama Group Ltd, owner of Iden Manor nursing home in Kent. Her vision of redefining compassionate care is what she draws from her own life experiences with muscle malnutrition and hearing loss, which turns the house into an inclusive and dignified model of elderly care. She plans to invest in accessibility upgrades, leadership development and mentoring platforms for disabled entrepreneurs in the nursing sector.
Michelle Phillips is the Michelle Phillips behind Edinburgh’s beloved Mimi’s Bakehouse. Michelle, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis after starting the business, has brought Mimi’s growth to a national bakery brand with five stores, two offers and thriving online delivery services. Her awards will support restarting the website, expanding product range and opening up export opportunities.
Active release founder Paul Woods received a £50,000 three-point bonus. Paul lived with cerebral palsy and had been underestimated for years as fuel for the express delivery business that now sets the standard for reliable, value leadership services in the Northwest. He will use the award to build a sales team and expand the company’s reach.
This year’s awards were held at the Stelios Foundation headquarters in South Kensington, marking a record 125 applicants, the highest in the program’s 17-year history. Since its inception in 2007, the Stelios Charity Foundation has partnered with disability charity Leonard Cheshire to award more than £1.7 million to disabled entrepreneurs in the UK.
Sir Stelios said: “We know how difficult it is for people with disabilities to find jobs. That’s why I always believe that their best choice is to be their own boss. The winners of this year are paving the way for others – building businesses that create jobs, deliver value and prove that there are no barriers to success with disabilities.”
The award is more than just a cash grant, it is a vote of confidence in individuals who overcome social and systemic barriers to lead a thriving business. Supported by Leonard Cheshire and private philanthropy, they continue to articulate the possibility of a new generation of leaders changing their business in the UK.
Photo: Nick Edwards
