Business leadership isn’t just about profits anymore. The companies that stand out are the ones making a tangible difference in their communities, and for me, purpose-driven leadership is as much about doing as it is about strategy. It’s about inspiring your team, your clients, and the wider world to step up and create real impact.
One partnership I’m particularly proud of is with Emmeline’s Pantry, a women-run Manchester charity supporting hundreds of vulnerable women each week. Back in March, my team closed the TLC HQ for a day and delivered truckloads of donations: food, toiletries, toys, clothing, wellness essentials, all kindly donated by business contacts I’ve made over the years.
Emmeline’s Pantry demand has grown 225% in five years, supporting almost 250 people a week. One woman told my team that the charity restored her self-worth after years of isolation…and now she volunteers there herself. That’s the power of businesses stepping up: it’s so much more than the donations they contribute, it’s about saying, “you are seen, you matter, you’re not alone.”
Giving back also comes to life through events. Last October, we were thrilled to support St Ann’s Hospice, helping raise funds for their new build. The room was buzzing with giving, connecting, and sharing experiences. It reminded me that events can be about more than money. They’re about energy, awareness, and impact.
Mentoring is another way I try to give back. As Entrepreneur in Residence at UCLan, I work with students to show the realities of running a business. This means the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Sharing the lessons I’ve learned from launching my consultancy and TLC, I want to inspire the next generation to build businesses that don’t just succeed, but make a difference.
To me, giving back is no longer optional – it’s integral. Leadership isn’t just about making decisions or hitting targets; it’s about influence, responsibility, and the example you set. When you lead with purpose, you create a culture where your team feels inspired, your clients feel valued, and your community sees real impact. Small actions, such as donating time, resources, or expertise, don’t just tick a box; they ripple out, shaping perceptions, behaviour, and long-term relationships. Leadership is measured not only in results but in the positive effect you have on the world around you.
