Local Stories: Suzy Rowland

Suzy Rowland talks to us about her business that aims to provide creative and interactive training and consultancy for young neurodivergent people.

How would you describe your business in one sentence?

The Happy In School project, aims to facilitate positive change in school environments, enabling neurodivergent young people to access education and enjoy a school experience that is enriching socially as well as academically.

Tell us more about you

I am a mother, a poet, a neurodiversity speaker and trainer. My poetry collection ‘Songs of My Soul’, 'S.E.N.D. in the Clowns’ was inspired by the trials and triumphs of my son’s autism and ADHD diagnosis. I am aiming to deliver more accessible training and courses in schools, local authorities, and businesses.

’I Can’t Go to School!’ is a workbook to support children who struggle to attend school. My goal is to raise awareness of the connection between neurodivergence in education and emotional wellbeing, one conversation at a time.

What were the most challenging aspects of setting up the business?

My work has gained an excellent reputation across local schools and beyond, however as a compassionate person, I find it difficult to offer my full services at a price point that is affordable to some parents with neurodivergent children. As a business owner and keen to help as much as possible, it is not viable long-term to volunteer time and expertise. It is important to build a sustainable business with a steady income.

It was vital for me to stay on top of technological tools to enable delivery and marketing of my short training programmes and workshops as well as selling my books – the common small business problem of juggling too many balls! My ambition is to create a business model that allows me to sell my products and services consistently.

What is the most difficult lesson you learnt?

As an entrepreneur, you can get a bit isolated, especially in terms of business planning, support and growth. Knowing what to prioritise to make the most impact was also a key lesson.

What type of support (if any) have you received from the council?

My business is six years old now and in clear need of planning and direction. It has been a rollercoaster working with Ray at the Richmond Council’s Zenith Enterprise Programme. They have developed target revenue goals and showed me ways I could generate targeted leads for my services.

I have learned that as business-owner, having passion and the right skillset is not enough to ensure business success. The insights and coaching I have received have given me the confidence to step-up to the next level of growth and I am so ready for it - I cannot thank the team enough!

How can people find you?

You can follow Suzy's business in a number of ways.