Last week was Global Entrepreneurship Week. To mark the occasion we spoke to Rachel Shilston from Inspiring Creativity about her experiences setting up her own business.

Rachel trained as an art teacher and worked in publishing and with the Forestry Commission before setting up her business 10 years ago delivering art workshops in schools.

After being asked to make a mosaic by a school, Rachel switched the focus of her business to mosaic workshops and make at home kits.

"The act of making a mosaic is very mindful and absorbing," said Rachel.

"You don't need to be able to draw. It's almost like doing a jigsaw puzzle."

Rachel recently took part in Natwest's Entrepreneur Accelerator scheme to help her business to grow.

"That was a really positive programme.

"I learned lots of things about running a business I'd not thought about before.

"I would recommend the programme to anyone. It's definitely helped me," she said.

The Covid-19 pandemic has posed numerous challenges. Rachel's new premises in Lydney had to close for several months and she was forced to switch to online workshops.

"A lot of businesses have struggled.

"I have been able to adapt. I am one of the lucky ones who has survived this year," she said.

Despite the difficulties she has faced this year, Rachel would still encourage people to start their own business.

"Entrepreneurship and being your own boss has so many benefits.

"It's a happy lifestyle. It's hard work but it's just getting that balance.

"There's a need for more creative industries so I would recommend it," she said.

For more information go to rachelshilston.co.uk