What do you do?
We offer classes and courses taught by elders with lifetime experience. Everything from learn the jazz guitar, to loom knitting, to playing chess, to philosophy, to upcycling clothes. What’s different about us is that we want to shine a light on all the amazing skills and talent that people older than us have built up over their lives. We were inspired to start by spending time with older people and realising there was a wealth of talent going to waste.
What were the biggest obstacles launching the start-up and how did you overcome them?
Too many to list. Money, building an audience, getting the right team, knowing what to focus on, figuring out how this thing could be sustainable, finding the right amazing teachers, putting on quality classes. Everything is an obstacle. The trick is to see it all as a problem to solve and to enjoy the ride.
I’ve loved the Amazings meetups – where they all come together in a room together and it’s like hosting the coolest event in town, with the nicest people, with the best stories.
Tell us about DO’s and DON’Ts when starting the company?
Do work hard; Don’t go on Dragon’s Den.
Why did you choose Shoreditch to launch your start-up?
We started out in Hackney, which has a great blend of communities, skills and interests, so it was logical for us to base ourselves in the same area.
Don’t force it. It’ll develop itself.
Who/what are your favorite CEOs/Businesses in Shoreditch?
I’m a fan of Mendeley. They’re more Clerkenwell, does that count?
What are your favorite places in Shoreditch?
Damascus Bites. Every Friday you’ll find me there having a shawarma.
What does the future have in store for Shoreditch?
More hipsters.