An 18-year-old from West Cumbria has been named the North West’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year.
Oliver Hodgson, who runs marketing agency Platinum Live from Whitehaven, was handed the prestigious accolade by the Federation of Small Businesses.
Oliver launched his firm at the age of 16 – a week into the UK’s first coronavirus lockdown.
He said: “I’m humbled and proud to have won this award, the last two years have been a rollercoaster, and there are a lot of people to thank.
“I’ve always loved the world of media and marketing and having a natural interest in business was the perfect recipe for launching my own firm.
“I believe being located in Cumbria has provided me with a fantastic opportunity to disrupt and make a mark.
“I’ve got to say a very big thank you to our clients who continue to enlist their trust in me and our team. We work with some truly wonderful people who in turn inspire me to continue to expand and grow.”
Michelle Fox, of Inspira, judged Oliver’s category. She said: “I was really inspired by Oliver’s story, at such a young age to have achieved what he has is proof of his grit and determination, in some of the most difficult times.
“I wish him all the best for the future and to see him go from strength to strength, a worthy winner indeed.”
Oliver added: “We have got some really exciting expansion planned for this year, there is no slowing down now, it’s time to really get going.”
