Hub Member - Tylwyth

Historian brings heritage to life through unique business

Jessica John from Dolgellau has managed to turn her passion for heritage into a unique career, working with large organisations and local communities alike.

Jessica is a cultural heritage consultant, offering a wide range of services – from exhibition planning to supporting community groups with heritage planning.

A unique career with increasing demand

Before starting her own business, Jessica realised that her work was quite niche, so she wasn't even sure how great the demand for her service would be.

"To tell the truth, I was lucky because I've been working in this world for a decade, so I had the connections and an idea of the projects that were going on," she explains.

"I've worked on a few projects and more projects have then heard about the work I do."

Jessica is passionate about what she can offer to the heritage sector.

The kind of consulting work she does is usually completed within organisations. But Jessica knows that it's not easy to find someone who can do a little bit of everything within an organisation or community, and that's where she can help.

"It's nice to run your own business, yes it is!"

The grant she received from the Enterprise Hub had been instrumental in helping Jessica set up her business.

"Thanks to the grant I received I've been able to set up a website and attend courses. Although I've managed projects before I haven't done my official course on project management, so little things like this have been of great help in starting a business," she said.

Jessica came across the Enterprise Hub programme by chance, thanks to her husband coming across Menter Môn on Facebook.

"I spoke to Aled, who was great and a huge help. The little things like a business plan – I'd written some before, but not one for myself! I think that has been an important cog in the process, that someone is holding your hand."

Watch the video below for more of Jessica's story.