We are delight to introduce you to one of our Women’s Business School graduates Yemi Penn, Founder of W Squared Coaching.
Meet Yemi
I am an Engineer by profession and an Entrepreneur by passion. My philosophy is to live life with little to no regrets, mainly by taking action on my dreams, desires and callings. I run three businesses with multiple passion projects, I am a podcast producer and author.
I run my management consultancy business, which is based in Sydney. I own and operate a fitness studio, F45 in Brixton, London and the core of my ‘why’ sits within my Coaching company (W Squared) which seeks to empower others to transform themselves and/or organisations
When did you start your business?
My first business, Penny Consulting (Management Consultancy) was launched in Jan 2016, W Squared Coaching in Jan 2018 and F45 Brixton opened in Sep 2018. It’s been a mad ride!!!
What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
If I was to focus on W Squared Coaching, it was ultimately to give back. I was at an event and the internal question arose during a breakthrough session, which was ‘who am I not to be great?’ ‘How can the Martin Luther Kings and Rosa Parks of the world contribute and I don’t?’ It was then I believed I was worthy enough to contribute and guide people to self empowerment, transmuting their pain (because we all have experienced this) to power.
What are you most excited about in your business?
Seeing and feeling someone realising they hold the power to change their life for the better. There is no better feeling than seeing other people happy and thriving. This is why I speak and deliver programs on a range of topics
What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
Self belief, imposter syndrome, calculating my value and therefore asking for my time and expertise to be remunerated accordingly, securing funding to implement my business has also been challenging.
What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?
To see the changes you want in the world, you are going to need to stand tall and step up by not only believing in yourself, your dream, your mission, your vocation (which is your business) but by taking action and being courageous. I say ‘Do it!’ The world needs you
Why did you choose to do the Women’s Business School Programs?
I wanted to be surrounded by tribe facing similar Challenges to me, whether it be motherhood, getting a product to market, understanding a P&L account or just the whole imposter syndrome women predominantly deal with; I wanted to be in good company for growing my businesses. I was also keen to learn from some of the best and the modules lent themselves to some areas I wanted to develop in both personally and professionally.
What did you enjoy the most about being part of the program?
The kick off launch as you got to meet everyone on the accelerator program. I also enjoyed the digital/social media part of the program as this is such a beast, which I needed help deciphering.
What surprised you most about the program?
The sisterhood I was to form and the fun that could be had in business that didn’t involve alcohol !
Which module was the most helpful and why?
The modules around money mindset and the digital/social media content. It felt good to know I wasn’t alone and some of the social media myths got debunked
How did the program help you in your business?
It provided connections and a pool of resources by way of literature and real people who could share knowledge and information on a topic
What has been the best thing about starting your own business?
The freedom and the choice, not just for my personal life but the freedom to have a positive impact on people and ultimately be part of the change I want to see.
Would you recommend the Women’s Business School to other women starting a business? Why?
Absolutely, the program is well laid out with modules that matter for building and growing your businesses, more than anything it puts you in proximity with people who can really upscale your vision and therefore business.
What’s happening next in your business?
Oooh this is a juicy one! Well I am in talks with two major companies who upscale businesses by 10! Also speaking to a publishing house on some form of collaboration. Whilst I manifest that I am planning my book tour around Australia, UK and Africa. Focusing on building my brand to deliver my mission. My gym will continue to run with an amazing manager and team and my consultancy will also be managed between myself and the General Manager.
What are your big plans for the future?
To set up retreat villages that nourish the mind, body, spirit and soul. Franchising it across the globe in a sustainable and achievable way.
To learn more about Yemi’s business visit her site https://wsquaredcoaching.com/
If you are looking for support to get your business of the ground in 2020 Women’s Business School Program is open now
https://womensbusinessschool.lpages.co/wbs/