Working with Powerful Women-led Businesses
At Lyreco, we know that true progress comes from championing diversity – not just within our own organisation, but across the suppliers we work with every day.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re recognising the women-led and women-empowering businesses that are driving innovation, fostering inclusivity, and breaking barriers across industries. From pioneering new ideas to creating more inclusive workplaces, these businesses are shaping the future.
Among our valued suppliers are inspiring women who are making a real impact. We spoke to some of them to hear their stories, challenges, and insights. Here’s what they had to say.
Martha Silcott, CEO Founder of Fab Little Bag
What inspired you to pursue your career, and who were your biggest role models along the way?
It was the realisation that there were problems affecting both the environment and how women and girls felt that could both be solved by a single solution that I could not resist. I am a problem-solver at heart, so the challenge of it just would not leave me alone. It took years of contemplation as to how I could make a bag that opens with one hand. Grabbing minutes here and there in between my ‘proper job’ and raising a family, I finally had my Eureka moment!
In terms of role models, I read Anita Roddick’s autobiography, which I found really interesting, as she was a true trailblazer who broke many moulds, creating a hugely successful franchise in The Body Shop, one that was part of my teenage years. Her early death was a real loss to the world of female entrepreneurship. However, in terms of role models generally, I am most motivated by the unsung heroines, those women out there making their environments better, caring for others, showing generosity when they have little of their own to give, where kindness flows out of them and pure grit holds them up strong. Kindness and grit are two superpowers in my opinion and the world needs a lot more of both.
What advice would you offer to the next generation of women looking to enter your industry or start their own business?
Think very carefully before starting your own business. It is very likely to take longer than you think, cost a lot more than you think, and you need to be honest about how strong you are mentally, as there is likely to be more rejection than you can imagine. You’ll need a strong support network around you, as you are going to need it.
Be clear about your WHY. If your only or key motivator is to make money, go and be a corporate lawyer or a banker. It may be that you do that for a bit, save up some capital, and invest in your business yourself. Business today needs to be driven by your passion, clear thinking, and goals. Absolutely, you need to make money. We need more ‘unicorn’ female-led businesses, not always, but success often comes when originality, passion, tenacity, and integrity meet.
It can seem quite glamorised at times but talk to any founder and it is not remotely glamorous 98% of the time. Oh, and it will consume all hours of the day and night, hence the need for a strong support network.
So, once you have really assessed and challenged your thinking and plan, and you are still keen to do it, then DO IT! Full on, two feet, all in. Research all the free resources that are out there to help you learn, join relevant networks and groups in your space. Figure out what you’re good at and what you need to pay other people to do. Spend as little money as possible on everything except anything legal that you need to do. And before you fall in love with your new brand name, check that the domain is not yet taken and that it is not already trademarked.
Remember that most women out there will want you to succeed, will help you, and be your cheerleaders. There are also some great male allies out there too.
Good luck.
Patrice Whelehan, Sales & Marketing Director of Sanni Bin
What inspired you to pursue your career, and who were your biggest role models along the way?
Having worked in the Hygiene Industry for years, I am driven by a combination of personal passion, the desire to innovate, and the aspiration to contribute positively to society. I’m motivated by the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives through sustainable innovation, aligning with my work and personal values.
This industry offers opportunities and avenues to develop new products and solutions that address existing hygiene challenges. By creating sustainable and eco-friendly hygiene products, we can significantly reduce environmental footprints. Hence, I started my journey to develop Sanni Bin, innovation in Feminine Hygiene Waste Disposal.
I have had many role models along the way. These include work colleagues who encouraged me and supported me to step outside my comfort zone. I also take huge inspiration from the great women around me in my family and friends. More publicly, I am a keen follower of Steven Bartlett and his philosophy and outlook for business success. Through business, I meet and admire inspiring women every day.
What advice would you offer to the next generation of women looking to enter your industry or start their own business?
First of all, it’s never too late to start. If you have an idea or concept, go for it and back yourself all the way.
In starting a business or developing a product, which I have done with Sanni Bin, do your research on the industry, the market, and the competition. Building a brand means knowing your story and sharing that story. Develop a powerful message, focus on the customer, fully understand the market and your own strengths. I personally have a deep desire to make a positive impact and create something meaningful that solves a problem, improves lives, and contributes to society in a more sustainable way going forward.
In today’s fast-evolving world, the importance of fostering entrepreneurial spirit in young women cannot be overstated through exposure to role models and mentorship from women, and if I could be that for one other woman, that is just amazing.
In terms of making your business work, you have to be willing to take risks and embrace challenges, get out of your comfort zone, gain new skills, don’t give up when things don’t go as planned, be kind to yourself along the way, learn from your mistakes, work hard at your goals, and stay focused.
And today, on International Women’s Day, surround yourself with amazing women.
Kate Smith, Director & Co-Founder of Hey Girls
What inspired you to pursue your career, and who were your biggest role models along the way?
Hey Girls CIC was born from a deep desire to give back. The fact that 1 in 10 people in the UK experience period poverty was simply unacceptable, and we knew something had to change. Businesses should be a force for good, not only supporting a meaningful cause but also being economically sustainable and committed to looking after their communities.
From day one, my passion has been about starting conversations that matter, refusing to shy away from the realities of period poverty, and ensuring that those affected feel seen, heard, and supported. Taking up space in this arena was essential, not just for Hey Girls, but for the wider movement to end period inequality.
My biggest role models have always been our incredible community partners working on the front lines, supporting their communities with genuine care and determination. Through tough times, whether it’s the pandemic, budget cuts, or simply the daily struggle to keep going, they continue to show resilience, passion, and an unshakable commitment to making a difference. Their work is a constant source of inspiration.
What advice would you offer to the next generation of women looking to enter your industry or start their own business?
Prepare for hard work. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it. There will be challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt, so plan for those tough times and don’t let them derail you.
Mistakes and bad decisions are inevitable, but they’re also your greatest teachers. Don’t punish yourself for them; instead, learn, adapt, and keep moving forward.
Surround yourself with brilliant people, accept that you don’t know everything, and lean on your support network when you need to.
Be humble, but also take the time to celebrate every win, no matter how small. The journey will be tough, but the impact you make will be worth every challenge.
Aine Kilkenny, Co-Founder at We Are Riley
What inspired you to pursue your career, and who were your biggest role models along the way?
My inspiration to pursue a career in business came from seeing how much potential there is to make a real impact through entrepreneurship. I have always been curious and wanted to learn more, which are great foundations for running a business. I also grew up in an entrepreneurial environment.
My dad owned his own business and watching him navigate the highs and lows of running a company was incredibly inspiring. He taught me the value of hard work, persistence, and believing in your vision even when faced with challenges. He showed me that entrepreneurship is not just about financial success, but about making an impact, solving problems, and doing something you’re passionate about.
What advice would you offer to the next generation of women looking to enter your industry or start their own business?
My advice would be to believe in yourself and embrace failure as part of the journey. Starting a business isn’t easy, and you will face challenges along the way, but it’s those moments that help you grow. Find a mentor or support network of like-minded women who can guide and encourage you. And always stay authentic to your values. Being true to yourself will set you apart.
The voices and stories shared by these incredible women highlight the power of leadership, resilience, and collaboration. But supporting women in business isn’t just about celebration; it’s about action.
At Lyreco, we’re proud to work with and champion women-led suppliers, ensuring that equality and opportunity are not just words but the foundation of our partnerships. This International Women’s Day let’s continue to elevate and empower the women shaping the future of business.
Because when women succeed, we all succeed.
