#FollowSailespin
How would you describe yourself in 6 words or less?
Full of ideas and projects
What promoted you to start your business?
After 16 years living in different cities across the world, working in business development, I was gravitating towards home in the North West of Ireland, pulled by wanting to contribute to a community and have a life closer to nature.
In my first-year home in 2017 I continued my work in R&D in technology for a large satellite operator, working remotely from my house looking out at Culdaff beach. After a year of this I realised that if I wanted to explore projects that were exciting and local, I’d need to launch out on my own. In 2018 I started my consultancy Sailespin offering business development, communication, and strategic support for projects that interest and excite me. My clients and work are diverse but with common themes of rural regeneration, social enterprise, and innovation.
Can you tell us a bit more about you?
My story, of moving away then returning to home, is probably very familiar to the AwakenHub community. I have worked in 6 different countries and in three different market sectors. In each role, I have learnt something new. Adaptability and continuous improvement are the approach I take to each job. I am happiest when I have a project that is part of a larger network that I can connect with and learn from. A belief I carry with me is that a rising tide lifts all boats. The AwakenHub network embodies this.
Fill us in on your female founder journey…
After seventeen years working in business development in corporate companies, I wanted to strike out on my own. Pursue my own interests. Invest in a community. The birth of my son, now 6, was the catalyst for me to want a working life that aligned with my values. I am rewarded each time I assist a local business or develop a new idea. The practical constraints of living in Inishowen, North Donegal, have been lessened in the last two years as we move to more location agnostic work. There is an opportunity to rejuvenate rural areas if we act now. I want to play a part in building a prosperous and sustainable community.
How has being part of the AwakenHub community helped your business?
The AwakenHub community has given me an insight into the detail of entrepreneurship and start-ups. My professional career to date was in large organisations and multi-nationals. Though many of my family are self-employed the businesses in the AwakenHub community are innovative and ambitious. The standard of speakers and subjects at the online events are very high. Following the journey of growing and successful female led companies inspires and energises.
Have you an ‘ask’ which we can share with fellow #Awakenhubbers
Tell us the bad stories as well as the good – sometimes the endless success stories of Social Media can dispirit those of us starting out. How did you pick yourself up when things were going wrong?
What six words do you live by as a founder?
A rising tide lifts all boats
Follow Carlene
Carlene Lyttle Linkedin
