Last month, Bekkie was named one of Lancashire Business View’s Top 20 Women of Impact – a huge achievement that we’re all still buzzing about – even more so because it recognises Bekkie’s passion for championing women and challenging prejudice.
The backstory
Since Bekkie was young, she knew that she wanted to pursue a career in design. However, as her career progressed, she realised that there was a distinct lack of women at senior levels within the creative industry.
“All my role models were men. It was then I knew I wanted to own a studio that provides everyone with the opportunity to follow their passions and thrive in a creative environment. The industry needs to have more women role models to encourage the next generation to pursue careers in creative fields.”
Two Stories creates a real impact and helps businesses grow through well-thought-out branding and design. Having grown up in the Lancaster & Morecambe area, Bekkie and Rob formed the studio on the premise that location doesn’t matter – you can work with large, corporate clients without being based in London.
“When I met Rob, it was clear that our visions were aligned, and we could both see the potential of purpose-led design work. You can live in a small seaside town and still work with the likes of Channel 4, The Advertising Association, and The Institute of Practitioners in Advertising. In fact, I believe our northern location is a great selling point; we can provide a more creative and personal service as a smaller, regional agency.”
The nomination
In March, we received the brilliant news that Bekkie had been nominated as one of Lancashire’s Top 20 Women of Impact, recognising her influential contribution both inside the studio and outside in the wider community. Bekkie has worked with local schools to encourage the next generation of creatives and challenge the preconception that location limits what you can achieve.
“I honestly couldn’t believe I had been nominated. This nomination combines two things I am extremely passionate about – championing and celebrating women as role models and shining a light on the region where I live. I am incredibly proud to be from Lancashire and it is ingrained in our traits as a studio.”
The International Women’s Day panel
As a result of the nomination and to celebrate International Women’s Day, Bekkie was asked to take part in Lancashire Business View’s Women of Impact panel alongside Charlotte Knowles from electrical contractor, Elektec Ltd, and Amanda Greenwood from leading charity, Lancashire Women. Hosted by Mike Stevens, the panel discussed topics surrounding women in business.
“It was an absolute honour to be nominated alongside so many inspirational women from across the county and to join Charlotte and Amanda on the panel. Having open conversations is crucial to improving understanding and giving women the opportunity to speak up and express themselves.”
The final word
With a 75% female workforce including a female Creative Director, Two Stories empowers its employees and works with a range of clients from a myriad of sectors and walks of life. For those looking to champion the women in their lives, here is Bekkie’s advice:
“Ask questions. Find out how the women in your life feel about certain situations. How have their experiences been? What could the people they work with do better to champion them? Don’t be afraid to speak up or get it wrong. If we don’t discuss these things or ask the questions, how will we learn?”
