A Cumbrian entrepreneur has celebrated Small Business Sunday at a national event.
Rachel Stewart, who founded Go Your Own Way, which offers Lake District adventure themed gifts and homeware, attended the annual Theo Paphitis Small Business Sunday event along with over 1,000 other entrepreneurs.
Now in its 15th year, the 2026 theme was Resilience Rocks, celebrating the tenacity and adaptability of the UK’s small business community.
Rachel first received the prestigious #SBS award from Theo in 2019.
She is part of an exclusive network of over 4,500 businesses and is invited to attend the flagship event every year to network with industry leaders and gain expert insights.
Rachel said: “Attending the event is always the highlight of my business calendar, but this year felt particularly special.
“The Resilience Rocks theme truly resonates with the journey of any small business owner.
“Since winning in 2019, the support from Theo and the #SBS community has been a constant anchor. It’s a reminder that while the road isn’t always easy, the strength we build along the way is what makes our businesses – and our communities – thrive.”
The event featured a live pitch competition in partnership with NatWest, keynote speeches from business icons, and a chat with broadcaster and campaigner Katie Piper OBE, who shared her personal and professional insights on the power of resilience.
Theo said: “Resilience is the defining quality uniting every member of the #SBS community.
“It’s not just about weathering the storm; it’s about adapting, exploring new ideas, and returning with new energy.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of the UK economy, and seeing the passion in the room today proves that the future is bright.”
