Michelle Walker-Smith - CEO Sleepout UK

Michelle Walker-Smith

Managing Director of Aqua Lettings

Ambassador CEO Sleepout Alnwick

How long have you been in business for?

I became a property investor when I was 43 with my husband Peter and before long, we created a successful property portfolio in the North-East. I then went on to start Aqua Lettings in 2015 but I’ve been in the property management business for over 25 years.

What are some of your driving values?

What are some of your driving values? Seeing adversity and doing something to help. I came from humble beginnings, and I’ve used the hardships that have been thrown my way to come back fighting stronger. Integrity, openness and the ability to use my personable and warm nature to add a little goodness to the world is definitely my driving force.

You’ve always been great at giving back, why is it important to you?

Through sheer grit and determination, I survived a life-threatening ruptured appendix that saw me battle septicaemia and peritonitis, which really turned my life upside down. The hospital and all the staff were incredible, and it really inspired me to give something back. So, I used my experience as a Housing Officer, where I was able to create interpersonal relationships with people from less fortunate backgrounds to gain their trust and respect. Aqua Lettings was created and is now an award-winning letting agency with an outstanding reputation for going the extra mile, renting to those who would typically be seen as a risk, such as recovering addicts and those on benefits because sometimes we all make mistakes, and we need a helping hand to get our lives back on track.

Which causes are closest to your heart / one thing about society in the UK that you wish you could change?

I just wish everyone would be open to help those who need it most instead of walking past with their heads down and pretending they’ve not seen anything. If we all give a little something, whether that be time or money, we can truly make a difference.

How did you get involved in the CEO Sleepout?

Homelessness is something very close to my heart. It really can happen to anyone. These days, I don’t think anyone should be homeless. When I came across CEO Sleepout on social media, I jumped at the chance to give back. Because Aqua helps those in need, it made total sense for me to do the Sleepouts. This will be my 4th, including the Sleepout (‘In’) during Covid, and I hope to do many more.

What other ways do you "give back" or work to strengthen communities you work within?

Supporting the local community has always been a top priority for me, that’s why I sponsor the local rugby team to help shape the next generation and provide them with support and enjoyment. I also help to raise funds for the local Freeman Hospital who has played a huge part in my life and continues to have a positive impact upon my children’s lives who suffer with long-term heart defects. I also took part in a sponsored head shave during Covid to help raise funds for the NHS, to help give back to those heroes who helped us when we needed it most.

Name one thing you'd like people to know about your life and work:

Despite the devastating blows and near-death experiences I’ve had, I’ve never given up and that mentality has seen me survive some pretty tough things. That relentless drive to help others and be the best possible person I can be is something I wish we could all strive for.

How might you see business playing a part in creating a fairer society here in the UK?

The UK is an incredibly diverse and vibrant nation, with a rich culture and abundance of different walks of life. As such, it stands to reason that we should all be on the lookout for ways in which this diversity can be utilised for our collective benefit. It's true that businesses are integral drivers of economic growth, but they also have the potential to contribute meaningfully towards achieving certain social goals, such as levelling up and helping those who may not have the best past but are willing to work hard for a brighter future. I truly believe businesses can be a genuine force for good here in the UK.

Why is it important that those in business lead with purpose?

Leading a business with purpose can be the difference between success and failure. It's not just about making good choices, but rather making wise ones that are in line with your values, end goals, and visions for the future. Through leading with purposeful energy and direction, companies have the opportunity to create meaningful change – whether it be through their own internal operations or outreaching into their community. By having an overall vision of what is important to both their staff as well as external stakeholders, businesses set themselves up for ultimate success both now and in the future for themselves and others.