A HUGE fan of business networking and philanthropy, a local woman has set up a centre to support all of her interests.

Jules Hawkins said that networking had always given her the support when she needed as it gave her the confidence to succeed.

And now she has set up the Labeada Lounge in Alton Road to host business networking events, workshops and philanthropic Fridays.

And in the spirt of John Kyrle, the Philanthropic Fridays are about finding nine other local businesses, who, along with Jules can chip in a £200 public relations expense, so that that £2,000 can be awarded to a local Wye Valley catchment resident, who needs a hand up, to turn things around.

She added: “We live in very difficult times with a wealth divide that is unacceptable, and my belief is that we do not need governance or excess wealth to help others, we can all do more, and personally, I would rather use £50 per week to positively impact another life and support economic growth than have a meal out.”

Jules has other plans for the Labeada Centre which she hopes will help various members of the community.

Jules also runs the Wye Valley Dance and Wellbeing Magazine as a mainly voluntary project.

However Jules grew up with an adverse background but has the understanding that a small amount of money can have a life changing impact on somebody wishing to improve their lot.

Jules is committed to helping others as charity Purple Shoots, a micro-finance business lender had helped her to get off the ground.

As a single mum Jules chose business over benefits, and subsequently published her book ‘Breaking out of Benefits Jail’ to Amazon in 2023 after six years of helping her own community in self-employment.

If you would like to join Jules’ ‘Philanthropic Fridays’ email her [email protected].