Louise's Big News - She's now Louise Hunt Skelley PLY

We’re almost at the end of September. Children have gone back to school and small business owners across the UK are trying to get back into business.

Today we’re talking to Louise Hunt Skelley PLY. Louise is a former elite athlete, tennis commentator, mental health facilitator, mentor, speaker, and consultant based in Swindon.

What’s been happening for you and your business in September?
September has shaped up to be a busy month for me. Not only did I get married, but I will be starting two brand new roles upon my return from our honeymoon. I will be beginning my new role with a local charity as a mental health and well-being facilitator and planning/organising a wheelchair tennis tournament which will be held in October in Abingdon. This will be my first time as a tournament director, and I can’t wait for a new challenge. Alongside this I will continue my usual work as a mentor, support worker and speaker.

I will also be modelling at a fashion show in Surrey on the 30th September.

This month children have gone back to school. Is this relevant to you?
It is relevant to me as I work in schools regularly in my Athlete Mentor role, I am really looking forward to getting back into schools and working with young people across the country.

World Gratitude Day takes place tomorrow – what are you grateful for at the moment?
I have so many things to feel grateful for its hard to whittle it down. I have to say my career, as I have waited and worked for a long time to get myself to where I am now and feel very proud to have achieved what I always set out to do.

Who are you grateful for at the moment?
I’m grateful for my incredible husband Chris. He has the ability to make me believe in myself when no one else can. He is the kindest, sweetest, most caring person and I love how he can make me smile even on the toughest of days.

I’m also grateful for my parents, for always being there for everyone and being the most selfless people, I know. They are truly remarkable people.

What are your hopes for business for the rest of this year?
My hopes are that I

• Embrace my new challenges as mentioned above
• Build new relationships with local businesses and employers
• Continue to demonstrate what can be achieved regardless of disability/barriers and stereotypes.

We are dealing with a lot of messages around ‘bad’ news such as the rising cost of living, inflation rising and interest rates rising. How are you keeping positive – what tips can you share with others?
I am keeping positive by focusing on what I can control and the good in my life. I am remaining focused on my career, present and future opportunities and ensuring I remain organised which always helps me feel reassured. I also like using a gratitude diary at the end of the day, ensuring the last thing I think about at the end of the day is something positive and kind to my mind before I go to sleep.

September 30 is International Podcast Day – do you listen to podcasts, or do you have one of your own? Which podcasts should others check out?
My favourite podcast has always been Scott Mills from BBC Radio One. I am gutted he and Chris Stark are leaving the show. I love that it’s just fun and upbeat and always a lovely uplifting distraction. I also enjoy Jonathan Van Ness’ podcasts too.

And finally, can you share something which inspires you to ‘keep going’?
Music is always my go to for remining positive and upbeat. I find rhythms and lyrics very inspiring and impactful!

You can find out more about Louise at www.louisehunt.co.uk