Ismay Mummery, founder of Leicestershire kidswear brand Boy Wonder, is a finalist in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards. Made ethically in Britain, Boy Wonder is a sustainable, organic boys’ fashion brand featuring hand-drawn prints on organic cotton.
With bright and stereotype-free designs, it offers styles for boys that allow them to enjoy fashion positively. Following circular design principles, garments incorporate features such as in-built extra growth room. Boy Wonder also provides complimentary repair kits and care guides to prolong the life of its garments.
Mummery publishes regular blog posts and social media content about ethical and sustainable issues in the fashion industry. She aims to educate and inform the brand’s audience about the need to reduce waste and consumption. “Our products give parents a better option that is kind to people, animals and the planet,” she says. “All whilst supporting British industry at a hyper-local level.”
This year’s awards saw over 5,300 entrants – the highest number to date.
The Great British Entrepreneur Awards, in partnership with Starling Bank, champion the hard work and uplifting stories of UK business owners. There is also an emphasis on their journey and resilience over financial achievements.
There are 12 awards per region for categories including Disruptor of the Year, Entrepreneur for Good Award, and the Great British Entrepreneur of the Year. Notable winners from previous years include Social Chain founder Steven Bartlett, who went on to become the youngest ever investor on BBC’s Dragon’s Den.
“I am so pleased to have shortlisted again,” says Mummery. “These acknowledgements are a great recognition and celebration of what my business is doing. In today’s difficult economic climate, it is hard to keep on going, but this has given me a much-needed boost.”
A brand-new award will highlight the organisations investing in the training and development of young people.
The John Caudwell Blaze Your Own Trail Award looks to recognise businesses that are improving young people’s access to work. For instance, those offering apprenticeships, vocational training, and diversity and inclusion initiatives.
A Grand Final at the Grosvenor Hotel in London on 21 November will announce the award winners. This year is also the 10th anniversary of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards. In this time, the alumni have collectively generated over £30 billion in revenue and employed over 450,000 people. To mark the milestone, entrants will have the chance to win over £30,000 worth of marketing support. Every application will also see the planting of a tree with the support of Ecologi.
Commenting is founder of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, Francesca James.
“The quality of applications is consistently excellent year on year. However, we have been especially blown away by the innovation, drive and determination demonstrated this year. Shortlisting from so many inspiring contenders has been more challenging than ever, with many deserving cases put forward and an ever-growing business community thriving across the country.
“From the pandemic to the ongoing cost of living crisis, business owners haven’t had it easy over the past few years. It’s a testament to the tenacity and perseverance of these entrepreneurs that they have continued on their path and refused to give in. This year’s finalists should be so proud of what they’ve already achieved, both in business and in being shortlisted for an award. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone at the Finals and unveiling the winners.”
Anne Boden MBE, founder of Starling Bank, headline partner of the Awards, adds; “Congratulations to all those businesses who have made the shortlist. It’s great to see the passion, resilience and amazing ingenuity from entrepreneurs across so many categories.”
For further information as well as the full list of finalists, please click here.
