Team LOTI is 75% female so naturally, International Women’s Day is something we want to celebrate. As well as spotlighting five London-based women who are killing in their respective fields, we’ve asked the LOTI ladies what they’re proud of and who they want to shout out this IWD.
What is your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement is probably moving to Argentina for a year. Not only because I survived as a veggie in the steak capital of the world, but because the entire twelve months were a big ol’ cultural slap in the face (in the best way possible). Yeah, there were ups and downs (as well as MANY things lost in translation) but that country and its people are seriously special.
What women really inspire you and why?
I love Nigella – I know, who doesn’t? – both her attitude to food and her approach to cooking are really inspiring. But I’m also inspired by so many other women in the food industry like Anna Jones, Ravneet Gill, Meera Sodha, Ruby Tandoh, Claire Saffitz, Nadiya Hussain…I could go on, but I won’t. Oh, I do need to mention Gillian Anderson though. Okay, that’s enough.
What is your proudest achievement?
My proudest achievement was travelling to South America and hiking on the Inca trail over 4 days, 26 miles, and up to 13,769 ft to reach the ancient city of Machu Picchu. We had to get up at 4am on the last day in order to reach the Sun Gate (the OG entry point) at sunrise. It felt like there were loads of groups competing with each other to get there first, and if you haven’t ever tried run-hiking on the edge of cliffs that were built in the 1500’s by Incas, I can tell you, it’s quite terrifying. But it was all worth it in the end when I reached the Sun Gate and saw the rising sun illuminate my first sight of Machu Picchu. Simply magical.
What women really inspire you and why?
I find people who are owning their niche, and bring something original to the table really inspiring. Women that are creatively doing their own thing and carving a path to success, like fashion blogger and designer @ttigerlilly, amazing sculptor @_thetits who shares creations that inspire body positivity and girlboss @fbeinghumbleldn who empowers women to WERK IT, plus some female foodies who’ve been creating amazing content include @truffleandegg, @gemtakesfoodpics, and nutritionist @themissiondieitian. Of course, I couldn’t complete this without shouting out my mum – a stronger, more independent, and lairy woman I do not know (although my sister gives her a run for her money). Luv ya Mum!
What is your proudest achievement?
I’d probably say getting a Distinction for my Masters in War, Culture & History from University of Manchester. A lot of work went into it and I really earned that degree, and seeing it in its shiny frame on my parents’ wall is a nice reminder that effort does pay off.
What women really inspire you and why?
I’ve really been loving Daisy May Cooper on Instagram during lockdown. We all need a good LOL right now and she never fails on that front. I also think Ash Sarkar is great – you’re always going to have to deal with people piling on when you write about politics but she handles all the racist and sexist crap flung her way on Twitter so well and doesn’t let it get in the way of what she’s doing. Really though it’s gotta be my friends. They just get shit done, whether it’s starting a new business or navigating difficult life events and they never let their friendships slip. Absolute kweens. And my mum too. She came to this country not speaking any English and went on to become a very well respected English teacher – if that’s not a boss move then I don’t know what is!
What is your proudest achievement?
Surviving the pandemic – it’s been a tough old 12 months and I’ve worked harder than ever before to keep the business alive and do my day job. We’ve actually managed to grow the team at LOTI this year, which is something I’m super proud of but shout out to everyone who’s pivoted (dirty word alert), hustled and managed to stay afloat this year. In the words of D-Ream “Things Can Only Get Better”.
What women really inspire you and why?
My team – WFH hasn’t been easy so I am inspired by the way they have dealt with the challenges. The ladies at Luminary Bakery and the work they do to help women who have had a social and economic disadvantage. They are based on my street so I salute them for my coffee and fresh bread too.