Couple quit 9-to-5 to launch disability-led firm
When Imali Chislett set up a marketing agency in 2018, she never imagined it would turn into an award-winning champion of workplace inclusion.
All she knew was, as a wheelchair user and living with chronic illness, the traditional workplace was not for her.
Ms Chislett and her husband, Cameron, launched Bournemouth-based Inkfire, which claims to be the UK's first disability-led marketing and tech agency.
As part of its services, it has helped more than 200 businesses embed inclusivity into their operations.
"I had some really terrible experiences, as did my husband, in the workplace," said Ms Chislett.
"We both realised that traditional nine-to-five working didn't suit us. We knew we needed something different and tried to build jobs that worked for us.
"In doing that, we had so many positive conversations where people said 'we need this too'.
"We didn't fully perceive how far it would get at the beginning but it has developed and morphed into this incredible space that we have now."
Last month, Inkfire was named winner of the Inclusive Workplace Experience category at the Disability Smart Awards, hosted by the Business Disability Forum.
The award recognises small organisations that value the health and wellbeing of workers and have inclusive practices.
Ms Chislett said: "Our entire team have disabilities and chronic illnesses and everybody has lived experience, so we very much bring that knowledge to the table when we approach work.
"It's good to show businesses that this is what you can achieve.
"Our message is, talk to people with disabilities, find out how you can help.
"Don't guess what somebody will need because we are here and more than happy to chat."
You can follow BBC Dorset on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
Disabled-led orchestra 'proves we are good enough'
Inkfire
Business Disability Forum
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Business News
3 hours ago
- Time Business News
Meet&Co Office Furniture Wholesaler: Trusted Partner for Modern Workspaces
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the design and functionality of office spaces play a crucial role in productivity, collaboration, and overall employee satisfaction. Businesses worldwide are shifting toward modern workspaces—open, modular, ergonomic, and inspiring. At the core of this transformation is Meet&Co, a globally trusted office furniture wholesaler renowned for its innovative designs, quality craftsmanship, and full-service approach. Whether you're a startup founder, interior designer, procurement officer, or enterprise-level decision-maker, this guide will help you understand why Meet&Co is the ideal partner to furnish your modern workspace efficiently and affordably. Meet&Co is a China-based office furniture manufacturer and wholesaler, with over a decade of experience delivering stylish, ergonomic, and scalable office furniture to clients worldwide. Known for their reliability and ability to handle bulk orders, Meet&Co has become a household name in B2B office furnishings, serving corporations, resellers, coworking spaces, and educational institutions across more than 100 countries. Key facts about Meet&Co: Headquarters: Guangzhou, China Founded: 2011 Service Reach: Over 100 countries Product Range: Office desks, chairs, workstations, conference tables, storage, and lounge furniture Core Values: Innovation, Integrity, Customization, and Customer Satisfaction Buying wholesale isn't just about getting better prices—it's about scale, consistency, and long-term value. Here's why sourcing from a wholesale supplier like Meet&Co is a smart business decision: Meet&Co offers competitive pricing for bulk orders, which is essential for startups, real estate developers, and companies outfitting entire office buildings. Wholesale partnerships allow businesses to expand or reconfigure spaces easily without design inconsistencies or availability issues. Wholesale suppliers often offer customization. Meet&Co, for instance, tailors finishes, sizes, and upholstery to match your brand's aesthetic. With logistics partners across continents, Meet&Co ensures on-time delivery and smooth customs processes for international clients. Meet&Co isn't just a furniture supplier—it's a strategic workspace partner. Here's what sets them apart: From design consultation to delivery and installation, Meet&Co covers every step of the office furnishing process. They understand cultural nuances and work requirements across different regions, making them ideal for multinational companies. Advanced manufacturing and a highly organized supply chain enable faster production and delivery. Clients receive dedicated managers to oversee their project from planning to post-installation support. Meet&Co's catalog is designed for modern functionality while maintaining professional aesthetics. Here's an in-depth look: Modern, sleek, and highly functional—these desks combine storage, wire management, and premium materials. Ideal for leadership offices. From task chairs to high-end executive seating, all chairs are ergonomic, BIFMA-certified, and available in mesh, leather, or fabric. Workstations Open-plan modular systems with privacy panels, cable management, and flexibility for team configurations. Available in various shapes (rectangular, boat-shaped, modular) with built-in power sockets and durable surfaces. First impressions matter. Meet&Co's reception units are modern, welcoming, and often customizable with branding. Lockable filing cabinets, credenzas, mobile pedestals, and shelving that blend seamlessly with office aesthetics. Office sofas, breakout seating, and coffee tables designed for comfort, collaboration, and informal meetings. Meet&Co understands that one size doesn't fit all. Their team of in-house designers collaborates with clients to create furniture that reflects a company's brand and culture. Custom options include: Desk shapes and sizes Materials and surface finishes Upholstery and chair configurations Storage layout and function Color matching with brand palettes They also offer 3D layout rendering services, enabling clients to visualize how furniture will fit into their floor plan. Meet&Co is committed to sustainable manufacturing, adhering to global environmental standards: Use of low-emission adhesives and finishes FSC-certified wood sourcing Waste reduction in production processes Eco-friendly packaging options Long product lifespans and recyclability For businesses prioritizing green offices, Meet&Co is an ideal partner aligned with LEED and WELL building certification goals. Meet&Co has shipped office furniture to businesses in the USA, Canada, Australia, UAE, UK, South Africa, and more. Multi-language support Documentation for customs Ocean and air freight options Regional warehousing partnerships After-sales service guarantees They work closely with B2B partners such as: Furniture resellers Interior design firms Facility management companies Corporate procurement teams 'Meet&Co provided full furnishing for our three-floor coworking space in Dubai. Their quality and turnaround time were exceptional.' — Hassan K., Project Manager, UrbanSpace MENA 'As a reseller in Canada, we trust Meet&Co for every bulk project. Their logistics, support, and consistency are unmatched.' — Lauren M., Founder, FurniBulk Canada 'We needed modern furniture for 120 employees. Meet&Co handled it from design to install and stayed under budget.' — Emilio R., Admin Head, TechEdge Europe Feature Meet&Co Other Wholesalers Global Shipping ✔ Yes ⚠ Varies by region Customization ✔ Extensive Options ⚠ Limited Design Consultation ✔ Included ❌ Often extra cost Sustainability Standards ✔ High (FSC, BIFMA) ⚠ Not always disclosed MOQ (Minimum Order Qty) ✔ Flexible ⚠ High minimums common Price Transparency ✔ Quotation system ⚠ Hidden fees possible Getting started with Meet&Co is straightforward: Browse the Catalog at Meet&Co's official website Submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) Consult with a Project Manager about your needs Receive 3D Layouts and Samples if needed Confirm Customizations and finalize pricing Production Begins (typically 15–30 days) Shipping & Installation Support provided After-Sales Support available globally Whether you're furnishing a startup office, equipping an enterprise HQ, or looking for a reliable B2B partner, Meet&Co Office Furniture Wholesaler delivers modern, functional, and beautifully designed solutions. With a commitment to quality, customization, global support, and sustainable practices, Meet&Co stands out as a true trusted partner for modern workspaces. Answer: MOQ depends on the product category, but Meet&Co is flexible for startups and small businesses. Answer: Yes. Meet&Co has shipped to over 100 countries with reliable freight partners. Answer: Yes. They offer free 3D layout and space planning services with every project. Answer: Typically 15–30 days for production and 10–25 days for shipping, depending on location. Answer: Products are BIFMA and ISO-certified, and wood materials are often FSC-approved. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Future of 'unique' floating restaurant to be determined
COUNCILLORS were promised that they will not be seeing the introduction of a 'party boat' as plans for a floating restaurant in Christchurch were discussed. Plans for a floating restaurant were discussed at Bournemouth Town Hall on June 17, in a licensing sub-committee meeting that was lead by councillor David Flagg. Paul Trickett and wife Virginia Hazell-Trickett have applied for a premises licence to permit recorded music and the supply of alcohol for their floating venture, Christchurch Harbour Kitchen. When asked to state his case, Mr Trickett described the restaurant as as a site that will serve alcohol to 'responsible' people and by no means will it be a 'party boat'. He added that the idea is 'quite unique' and that he designed the structure himself. Mrs Hazell-Trickett added: "We are trying to create something different." Proposals for the seaborne venture have frustrated some members of the public, with many fearing that the venue will bring loud noise, anti-social behaviour and excess waste to the area. In response to queries over the music, Mrs Hazell-Trickett stated that it "won't be louder than anyone that's speaking". Another fear expressed by the public is surrounding the safety of the unit and if lifejackets are needed, especially for children. Mr Trickett stated that the site is based on a 'static platform' and will not move while customers are on board. He added that as the site is not moving, they do not see the need for lifejackets. He said: "We do not feel as if there are going to be any hazards there." Objecting the plans, Richard Slater from the Beach House in Mudeford spit, stated that the pair seemed to be 'unprepared' at the meeting, adding that the 'lack of experience' 'concerns' him. Mr Slater said: "They don't appreciate that children can drown in a foot of a water. "It would be a danger to the children playing in that area. "Health and safety seems to be an afterthought." Mr Trickett explained that he had designed two legs with 'diamond type arrow poles' which will sit under the raft and pierce the sand, holding its position. Alongside the concerns for the safety of the general public, Mr Slater stated his concerns for the environmental impact the site may have. He discussed that the site may damage and interfere with salmon spawning grounds in the area and was disappointed that no environmental impact or noise assessment surveys were completed. BCP Councils decision will be made public later in the week.
Chicago Tribune
4 hours ago
- Chicago Tribune
Weber Grill Restaurant to be first tenant in Orland Park downtown development
Weber Grill Restaurant will open a location in Orland Park next year, becoming the first tenant announced for the village's downtown development project northwest of La Grange Road and 143rd Street. The company is owned by the same family that makes the grills, which are used to prepare meals at the restaurants. Weber Grill will build an 8,500-square-foot space at the southwest corner of La Grange and 142nd Street, said Ramzi Hassan, president of Edwards Realty Co. Orland Park-based Edwards was selected by the village to develop that has been called the Main Street Triangle project. 'This is exactly the type of tenant we envisioned when we first imagined downtown Orland Park,' Hassan said in a news release announcing the restaurant's plans. 'Weber Grill represents a high-quality, experience-driven restaurant that aligns perfectly with our vision to create a dynamic, walkable destination for the community.' Planned to open next spring, the restaurant will feature indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a hands-on cooking school offering both public and private cooking classes, according to Weber Grill Restaurants. The company also has restaurants in downtown Chicago and suburban locations in Lombard and Schaumburg. 'We're thrilled to bring the unique Weber Grill experience to the new downtown Orland Park,' Jon Crost, chief operating officer of Weber Grill Restaurants, said in a news release. 'This location allows us to connect with a vibrant and growing community while being part of a visionary redevelopment that emphasizes both quality and community.' Hassan said Friday that Weber 'is a really good brand that's a household name,' and its decision to open in Orland Park could attract other tenants. He said that Weber was looking to the Orland Park market for a restaurant, but 'they were more interested in the type of development they are joining.' 'They had to find the right fit,' Hassan said. He said Edwards has been very selective about the users and businesses coming in to the development, and said the Weber Grill Restaurant could be destination drawing customers from beyond the Orland Park area. 'It's not like they have 300 restaurants all over the country,' Hassan said. Edwards plans to develop more than 140,000 square feet of entertainment, retail and office space. No residential space is planned. An expansion of Crescent Park, to be renamed Heroes Park, is included, and what is now a stormwater detention pond in the northeast corner of the triangle would be enhanced with fountains. The company and village held a ceremonial groundbreaking for the downtown project in March. Edwards owns and operates Orland Park Crossing, a retail center northeast of La Grange and 143rd, directly to the east of the downtown development. The downtown development would be situated around the Ninety7Fifty on the Park apartments, University of Chicago Medicine Center for Advanced Care, a parking garage and the 143rd Street Metra station. Hassan said he expects Edwards to break ground in spring on space for a second tenant, which would be on a site west of La Grange on the south side of 142nd.
