Stephanie Zielke, Founder and MD of Wood Connexions
Ambassador: CEO Sleepout Middlesbrough
How long have you been in business for?
I have been in Business for over 15 years and a business owner since 2015.
What are some of your driving values?
I really want to use my success to drive social and economic change for those who are not in a position to do so for themselves.
You’ve always been great at giving back, why is it important to you?
There are many reasons why people need help and they can affect anyone in society regardless of background, social environment or health. I am fortunate enough to be in a position to both recognise the need and have the ability to act.
Which causes are closest to your heart / one thing about society in the UK that you wish you could change?
Homelessness is at the heart of my ambition to try and change the perception and the lack of understanding regarding people who assume that those who are without shelter are to blame as a result of alcohol and drugs. There are many more complex reasons, which force people to live on our streets in the UK and without a greater understanding and/or insight of the general public, this will never change.
How did you get involved in the CEO Sleepout?
It is a charity which I have always wanted to be part of and represent, especially after living and working abroad in Poland for such a long time. Homelessness was initially brought to the forefront of my mind whist living in Poland, where it is prevalent and the conditions are more extreme from season to season. Having come back to the UK, I see the same issues and patterns on our streets and feel the need to help in any way I can.
What other ways do you "give back" or work to strengthen communities you work within?
I am a big supporter of the Teesside Hospice as everyone should be able to spend the last days of their life in the best possible care. Also at work, we actively encourage our people to train and improve themselves with our in house support.
Name one thing you'd like people to know about your life and work:
No matter what element of my life I am enjoying, I always give 100% and encourage others to do so too. I have recently embarked on a career in the music industry, as a songwriter and singer, performing under the name ESMAE. This has gained a worldwide platform, and I have written a song especially for CEO SLEEPOUT entitled REVOLUTION, which I hope will raise much needed awareness of the case and issues surrounding homelessness.
How might you see business playing a part in creating a fairer society here in the UK?
This is a huge challenge across the UK and we need businesses to engage with those individuals who are less fortunate. As business leaders we have a responsibility to share our experience and successes with others to bridge the gaps that exist in society and create a more balanced environment for all.
Why is it important that those in business lead with purpose?
Business leaders need to set an example, we are responsible for creating and maintaining employment for others and giving back allows us to the same principles in everyday life.
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