Building a Business on Intrinsic Values
When I started my own business, I had never run one before. Given my health conditions, choosing a franchise was the simplest way for me to embark on this new chapter. Having been a teacher for many years, I already had many of the skills required to build a successful business. In January 2023, I launched Boogie Beat across Edinburgh, Midlothian, and East Lothian, having purchased the existing Edinburgh franchise and expanded into these additional territories where I live.
After the initial four months of getting the basics in place, I began reflecting on what kind of business I truly wanted to build. Of course, as a mum of two with a mortgage and a family to support, the financial bottom line was crucial. Once I had secured that, I found myself thinking beyond just the numbers. What did I want my business to stand for? What impact did I want it to have?
Two main values stood out to me: community and family support.
Supporting the Wider Community
The importance of community was ingrained in me from a young age, thanks to my upbringing. Both of my parents were heavily involved in the Scout Association, and while I’m not currently active in scouting, I’ve always held the belief that a strong community is essential. I wanted my business to reflect that.
One of the ways I decided to contribute to the community was through intergenerational work. This involved connecting children from nurseries, playgroups, and families with residents in care homes through music, movement, and fun. It’s a rewarding initiative that fosters bonds across generations. However, it’s not without its challenges – coordinating between different institutions, managing logistics, completing risk assessments, and ensuring public liability insurance are all factors to consider. While this work is still expanding, I’m excited about its potential to bring people together.
In 2024, I have supported Love from Jamie, a local charity that is deeply significant to me. In 2025, our nominated charity will be Team Jak.
This year, we are on track to raise over £1,000 for Love from Jamie. Here are some examples of how the money raised or donated to Love from Jamie has made a difference:
- Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS):
We support two families referred to us through CHAS. One family, who recently moved to the UK and tragically lost their baby at five days old, was unable to access public funds or benefits. We were able to provide them with financial support to help during this incredibly difficult time. The second family was referred to us to help fund three headstones for family members, including two children who had recently passed away. - Fife Council:
The social work team at Fife Council referred a single mum to us who needed financial help to cover the cost of erecting a headstone in memory of her baby, who passed away in 2022.
Knowing that these funds are going directly to help families in need reinforces the importance of this work. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved in 2024 and look forward to supporting Team Jak in 2025 to continue making a difference.
About Team Jak Foundation
Team Jak Foundation provides emotional, social, and practical support to children and young people aged 0-25 with cancer and related illnesses, as well as their families, friends, and those who are bereaved. Their work focuses on offering a safe and nurturing space for young people and their families, ensuring no one faces their journey alone.
Supporting Families Through Flexible Work
Equally important to me is supporting families—not just the ones we serve through our Boogie Beat activities, but also the families of my team. My business is small, and while I don’t aim to generate massive profits, my focus is on doing work I love while fostering a family-friendly environment for my team.
Currently, two mums who weren’t working before have joined Boogie Beat, allowing them to earn an income while still being present for their children. Until August, Fabio—a father who balanced his role with Boogie Beat whilst establishing his own childcare business—was also part of the team. It’s rare to find roles that fit so seamlessly around school drop-offs and pick-ups, and I’m proud to offer this flexibility. These opportunities allow parents to rediscover their identity beyond the home while contributing their unique talents.
To ensure my team feels valued, I provide comprehensive training and make myself available for open discussions about ideas, concerns, or feedback. My goal is for every team member to feel supported and empowered in their role.
Living Our Values
At the heart of Boogie Beat are the values of inclusion and building confidence—not only for the children we work with but also for the adults who are part of our journey. Whether it’s supporting Love from Jamie in 2024 or preparing to raise funds for Team Jak as our nominated charity in 2025, these principles guide every decision I make.
As our team grows, I’m excited to welcome new members and tailor roles to their individual needs, helping them achieve a balance that works for their lives. I’m equally eager to see how much more we can raise for Team Jak in 2025 and the continued positive impact we can create together.
If you would like to follow Boogie Beat Edinburgh, Mid and East Lothian’s journey come and follow us on Facebook or Insta .
