A post from Paul Woods – Managing Director
‘On Monday I was humbled to come 3rd place in the 2025 Stelios Award for disabled entrepreneurs.
I have watched the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation with real interest for many years.
I have seen how their generosity has rewarded entrepreneurs and worthwhile causes for nearly two decades.
Real legacy stuff
Yesterday the Stelios foundation made a real impact to my life.
I have been awarded a incredible cash grant of £50,000 to help me grow Proactive Despatch Ltd.
I intend to invest this generous prize into our sales function, leading to improved market share, enabling us to impact more people with our brand of “legendary service”.
I was talked into applying for this award by two people that I massively respect, however I knew doing it would shine a light on my own insecurities around my disability, so it made me uncomfortable.
Umbreen David I relate to what you have said in a previous post about your disability. I either ignored my disability, was embarrassed by, or tried to hide it from people.
I was just so keen & determined to fit in and contribute to society. I just got my head down and tried my best.
The fact that I walked differently to the majority troubled me, It frustrated me that as a wheelchair user my life and that of my family, were impacted.
I have built a great life and a business whilst at worst hating my disability at best refusing to acknowledge it’s existence.
Not any more
A phone call from Gemma Johnson at the start of the Lilac review a few years ago started to change my view on my disability.
I realised that although I wish I did not have my disability, I cannot change it so I need to play the cards i have been dealt.
Once I started to give thought to it, I realised my cerebral palsy has helped me over the years.
It has made me want to succeed.
It made me resilient.
It made want to prove people wrong.
It made me persevere
The recognition I received on Monday from Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou poured rocket fuel on the fire that already burns in my stomach.
I am so excited about the future.
Without wishing to sound like a sentimental soul.
Thank you, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou Maya Turnbull and Tracy Ghori for the kindness you have shown me through the process, and for recognising me and the business, it means the world.
To my team at Proactive Despatch Ltd. this award was based around two things, my disability and the business we all nurture daily, so thank you as always.
Thanks to all our suppliers and customers who are kind enough to use our service.
I am really grateful.
If you are a disabled person reading this
Stop being tough on yourself.
Remember that people are too pre-occupied with their own challenges to think about yours.
Give it your all
You only have one life you might as well make it the best possible.
Onwards and upwards’