Barnsley businesswoman Leonie Briggs, who works with mini-inventions, test-tube potions, and rainbow explosions, has been named as one of the UK’s top 100 female entrepreneurs.
Leonie, thought to be the first Barnsley woman to be recognised as a trailblazer in Small Business Britain’s annual female entrepreneur awards, set up her interactive science education business Amazelab during Covid, since when she has introduced an estimated 250,00 young people to science.
She delivers fun and accessible STEAM workshops for children of all ages and abilities focused on exciting an interest in science; and encouraging young people to consider careers in sectors such as research, design, technology and engineering. This year she will provide a cosmic workshop in collaboration with the International Space Station and the UK Space Education Office as part of Mars Day on March 2.
Former science teacher Leonie, of Hoyland Common, said: “I love what I do; and I’m thrilled to be included in this year’s list of top female entrepreneurs. I’ll use every opportunity this provides to shout about the value of science education for all. I also want to highlight the many wonderful careers in science which are available to young people, especially in our region where there is so much industry and innovation.”
Leonie will attend a celebration event at Westminster on International Women’s Day on March 8, wearing an outfit made by another Hoyland Common entrepreneur – designer-dressmaker Jilly of Jilly’s Fashion.
Leonie added: “I’m passionate about science education and helping young people to discover new things, work things out and create stuff that make them go ‘Wow’. I never miss an opportunity to get out there and so many wonderful people and organisations have been in touch with me since Covid that I’ve been able to collaborate and deliver more and more – growing the business quicker than I could ever imagine.”
