Businessperson of the Year Corrina Becket is part of the Senior Leadership team at Barnby Road Academy and under her guidance, the school became a beacon of excellence in primary education.
Corrina’s leadership style is one of optimism, drive, positivity, sharing and belief and through her leadership, she aims to inspire transformative change and encourage a culture of growth and innovation.
The school consistently flourishes, boasting overflowing admissions and a constant waiting list and it has received the highest number of preference requests in all of Newark for the past five years.
She has recognised the crucial role of financial stewardship in maximizing resources for each child’s success. Through strategic budgeting and resource allocation, she has ensured a sustainable financial model, making the school thrive.
As a result of Corrina’s hard work, the school saw soaring admissions, strategic budget, staff retention and recruitment, infrastructure investments, comprehensive wrap-around care, enriched extracurricular activities and sustainable growth.
The school has built excellent relationships with Newark-based companies that provide competitive prices, excellent workmanship and customer service which they believe to help promote economic growth within the area.
Following her announcement as Businessperson of the Year, she said: “I’m amazed, I can’t describe it.
“I just do my job — and I’ve got such an amazing team behind me that all me to do the job I do.”
Highly commended in this category was Hajra Kemari, of Petit Versailles.
The Portuguese designer and shop owner opened her business on Stodman Street, Newark ten years ago after having moved countries.
At her shop she offers a wide range of goods and services including jewellery, accessories, millinery and new and pre-loved fashion.
Working alongside her sister, Hajra’s store provides quality alterations, design and production of bridal gowns, cosplay, steampunk and retro.
Recently she introduced a new department selling high-quality ornate fabrics and haberdashery.
Over the past year, she has been firm on the steampunk map, a culture that attracts thousands of visitors to Newark.
The majority of the shop’s visitors are from outside Newark and the shop's curious and passionate customers contribute to an increase of the market town economy and footfall.
