SheGen3.0 Showcase Spotlight: Lisa McLaughlin, founder of boey + becci
Meet Lisa McLaughlin, founder of boey + becci, a participant in the SheGenerate program and a Showcase finalist! With a deep passion for sustainability and a background in design, she's on a mission to revolutionise organic baby and children's fashion. Lisa's journey is about resilience and creativity, bringing eco-friendly products to families while championing ethical business practices. Joining AwakenHub has empowered her vision for boey + becci, propelling her towards sustainable success. With her mantra: Innovate, Advocate, Thrive, Lisa is unstoppable in her quest to make a difference.
Lisa is part of our SheGenerate 3.0 cohort and one of our six Showcase Finalists. With special thanks to our SheGen3.0 Partners for making the programme possible - Taylor Wessing Ireland, AIB, Catalyst NI, British Business Bank and Ulster Bank Northern Ireland.
To get us started - how would you describe yourself in 6 words or less?
Innovative, Passionate about Sustainability, Resilient, Fun-loving
What prompted you to start your business?
In 2021, fuelled by a genuine passion for sustainable design, I embarked on exploring the possibility of launching my own business while juggling a full-time job, and boey + becci was born. Our organic baby and children's brand was inspired by the births of 6 beautiful babies in our family, focusing on sustainability and longevity in products.
Tell us a little bit more about you?
In 2016, I left my job in the NICS after 20 years to follow my passion for design. I studied Fashion & Textiles, and in my spare time, I explore other creative activities like dog walking and enjoying nature along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Fill us in on your female founder journey.
The journey of being a sole founder while balancing part-time work has its challenges, but it's incredibly rewarding. Every day is a learning experience, and connecting with supportive networks of women has been invaluable. Access to funding and maintaining work-life balance are ongoing challenges.
How did you hear about AwakenHub and what prompted you to apply for SheGenerate?
I heard about AwakenHub from established female founders in the Derry area. I applied for SheGenerate to access resources tailored to female entrepreneurs, hoping to develop my business in areas like investment and scaling, while connecting with like-minded women.
How have you found the SheGenerate journey leading up to this?
Through SheGenerate, I've gained valuable resources, mentorship, and insights into the unique challenges faced by women in business. It's increased my visibility, networking opportunities, and confidence in my entrepreneurial journey. It has been an amazing experience, the programme offered tailored support which helped us navigate the challenges of building a start-up in the competitive organic baby & children’s products market. It also offered networking opportunities, access to experienced mentors, and exposure to potential investors. It’s also been wonderful to meet with my fellow SheGen3 cohorts and learn from our shared experiences which has been incredibly enriching.
You have been chosen to pitch at the SheGenerate showcase. How do you feel about this?
I am delighted to be chosen to pitch for showcase, I feel this is a fantastic opportunity to promote boey + becci to the wider Awakenhub community and sponsors. It will enable me to receive valuable feedback and potentially open doors for future collaborations.
A few words for anyone thinking of applying for SheGenerate 4.0?
Go for it!!!! The SheGenerate programme is immensely rewarding, you will truly get out what you put in. The learning, mentorship, support & community are readily available for you to embrace wholeheartedly.
What does success look like to you in 12 months and in 5 years?
In 12 months, success means a thriving and sustainable business with strong brand recognition and customer loyalty. In 5 years, I envision boey + becci as a leader in ethical and eco-friendly fashion, making a positive impact on the environment.
Now that you have the community's attention, what can we do for you?
I'm seeking recommendations for sustainable manufacturing in Ireland to further enhance the eco-friendly ethos of boey + becci.
You attended our SheVentures summit, tell us about it.
SheVentures for me was a truly unforgettable experience. During the 2 days, we listened to motivational talks from amazing keynote speakers & cabin hopped to masterclasses on storytelling, investment, US Market entry and sustainability. We connected with many inspiring women founders & investors including my fellow SheGen3 cohorts and this was all topped off in the stunningly beautiful setting of Lusty Beg Island. I cannot wait for SheVentures 2025!!
As a founder, what are your non-negotiables?
Non-negotiables for me include diversity & inclusion, equal opportunities, work-life balance, environmental sustainability, and ethical business practices. I live by the phrases: "Courage is not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it" - Nelson Mandela and "Because a thing seems difficult for you, do not think it impossible" - Marcus Aurelius.
Six words to live by:
Embrace change, live unconditionally, be kind.
With special thanks to our SheGen3.0 Partners for making the programme possible - Taylor Wessing Ireland, Catalyst NI, British Business Bank and Ulster Bank Northern Ireland.
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