Leanne Fernandez-Pook, founder of social media marketing agency Battle Brand Media, has been named a finalist at the UK Small Business Awards.
She has been shortlisted for Best New Business and Female Entrepreneur of the Year, placing her among the UK’s top small business leaders.
The awards celebrate excellence, resilience and innovation across the small business community nationwide.
Battle Brand Media was launched after Leanne noticed a growing number of empty shops on her high street locally and wanted to support independent businesses facing increasing pressures.
The business was also born from a major personal turning point, after Leanne’s Muay Thai and K1 fighting career was cut short by a serious injury.
She channelled the discipline and resilience from her sporting background into creating a marketing agency with a strong social purpose.
Rather than chasing high-value clients, Battle Brand Media focuses on providing sustainable, accessible marketing support and becoming part of clients’ teams.
In under two years, the agency has grown from a solo venture alongside Leanne’s main job into a growing business supporting companies across multiple industries.
As part of its growth, Leanne has trained and mentored women with little or no marketing experience, creating new pathways into the industry.
The company is now preparing to launch one of the largest content creation and podcast studios in the East of England, alongside a Creator Academy for young people.
The UK Small Business Awards will take place on December 19, in Birmingham.
Speaking about the achievement, Leanne said: “We are mind-blown but incredibly honoured and proud to be recognised as finalists at The UK Small Business Awards.
“What started as a small side project alongside my job has grown into something far bigger than I ever imagined.
“This recognition isn’t just for me, it’s for every business that has trusted me with something that means everything to them.
“Losing my fighting career was one of the hardest moments I’ve faced, but it pushed me to build something new that genuinely helps people.
“Small businesses are under so much pressure right now, and that’s exactly why I do what I do.
“This has shown me that we’re on the right path, and it’s only the beginning.”
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