Leading Through Adversity: A Conversation with Liz Jackson MBE

This might just count as a spoiler alert… but we couldn’t resist sharing a sneak peek of one of our emPOWER Breakfast guests for next year. And what a guest she is.

At The emPOWER Breakfast, we’ve always been drawn to stories that challenge the way we see the world. Stories that shift perception, invite empathy and remind us what resilience really looks like.

That’s why I couldn’t be more excited to share a little preview of one of next year’s emPOWER Breakfast guests: the extraordinary Liz Jackson MBE.

Liz is funny, sharp, kind and exceptionally successful – the kind of person whose energy fills a room. She’s a published author, an award-winning businesswoman, and you might remember her from the Channel 4 series Secret Millionaire, where she went undercover to share her wealth and insight to support people making a difference in their communities.

But what makes Liz’s story truly remarkable isn’t only her success. It’s her perspective.

At 25, just as she was launching her first business, Liz lost her sight. What many would have seen as a devastating barrier became, for her, a turning point. When I first met Liz, I was struck by what I assumed must be her greatest challenge – blindness – but I soon realised that said more about my perception than her reality. For Liz, it was simply part of the journey.

Her story is one of adaptation, clarity and courage. She speaks with refreshing honesty about what it means to lead under pressure, to build with purpose, and to remain positive even when circumstances shift completely.

Liz’s approach to business – and to life – is grounded in community, humour and a deep understanding that success is as much about mindset as it is about opportunity. Her ability to balance vision and vulnerability has inspired so many founders and leaders navigating their own demanding paths.

I’d encourage you to take a moment to read her recent piece, Leading Through Pressure: Lessons in Perspective and Balance, where she shares practical insights on staying focused, grounded and connected through times of uncertainty. There are some real gems in there for anyone steering a business, or a life, through choppy waters.

I can’t wait to welcome Liz to The emPOWER Breakfast next year. It’s going to be a conversation full of laughter, honesty and powerful takeaways. One that will no doubt leave us all feeling a little braver, a little clearer, and a lot more inspired.