A BOLTON businesswoman who launched her own company during lockdown has been selected as a mentor for a government-backed initiative to help other female entrepreneurs.

Allison Angel is now working with FreelanceHER 100 – a programme for women by women looking to launch, grow and develop sustainable businesses across the 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester.

The sessions run over 12-weeks and include workshops, masterclasses and peer-to-peer mentoring for 100 women in business as a safe place to test ideas, collaborate with others and grow in community.

“When women have someone who believes in them, their power, their authentic self and their unique gifts and talents, anything is possible,” she stated.

“It’s an honour to have been chosen as a mentor for FreelanceHER 100 and to champion female founders to both personal and professional fulfilment.”

The mother of two’s own story is inspirational enough. In her 30s she was co-founder of one of Manchester’ fastest-growing letting agencies but a difficult divorce took its toll.

She went on to establish Allison & Co, a boutique consultancy promoting financial wellness to women and helping them generate income through property.

When the pandemic struck, Allison – like many other business owners – was ineligible for financial assistance. However, determined, resourceful, flexible and hard-working, she managed to keep the business going.

During this period, she embarked on a new venture with the London College of Style and qualified as a Personal Stylist.

Her entrepreneurial journey continued and in 2021 she launched Years of Style – a company that helps women look and feel their best ever in the clothes they wear.

Services include wardrobe reviews, personal shopping and style subscription and the work is highly individual with confidence and impact at its core.

On her FreelanceHER 100 role, she added: “I’m already blessed to be able to work with such incredible talent. The fact that I get to empower these women to the next level is hugely rewarding. I’m beyond excited for where they are heading.”