Congratulations to Olga Bartlett from O.Bartlett Strength Therapy on winning Entrepreneur of the year at this year’s Vale of Glamorgan Business Awards. Hear what Olga had to say:
Why did you enter The Vale of Glamorgan Business Awards?
I entered The Vale of Glamorgan Business Awards because it’s an incredible platform to showcase the hard work, dedication, and growth I’ve achieved at Olga Bartlett Strength Therapy. It also allows me to connect with like-minded business leaders who share the same commitment to innovation and community. Winning this award was a chance to reflect on my journey and share my story with others, hoping to inspire both established and budding entrepreneurs in the area.
How did you find the interview process for the awards?
The interview process was both insightful and energizing. It was a great opportunity to step back and truly articulate the journey of Olga Bartlett Strength Therapy—from my initial days in my garage to the thriving facility I’ve become today. The panel asked thought-provoking questions that allowed me to reflect on the challenges, successes, and the mission driving me forward. It was a moment to recognize the impact I’ve made and to feel proud of the progress.
What did winning mean for you or your business?
Winning Entrepreneur of the Year is an incredible validation of everything I’ve worked so hard to achieve. It means that my values—creating a supportive, inclusive, and effective environment for everyone—are resonating with our community and are seen as valuable in the broader business landscape. This award brings Olga Bartlett Strength Therapy greater visibility and credibility, which will help the centre expand and reach even more people looking for a holistic approach to health and fitness.
What did you think of the awards ceremony?
The awards ceremony was truly inspiring and energizing! It was wonderful to celebrate the diversity and achievements of businesses across The Vale of Glamorgan. The atmosphere was supportive and celebratory, and seeing the stories behind so many successful businesses was both humbling and motivating. It was a reminder of the incredible work being done across various industries in our region.
What’s been a challenge for you or your business during the last year, and how did you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges this past year has been managing the rapid growth of our client base while maintaining our personalized approach. As demand continues to grow, I’m working hard to expand our services and team members without compromising the quality and personal touch that sets us apart as well as continuing to uphold my passion for client-centred service and staying closely involved in all aspects of client interaction and feedback.
What’s been a highlight for you or your business over the last year, and why?
The biggest highlight has been opening my new facility in April 2024. Moving from a home-based setup to a fully operational centre was a transformative milestone, both for me and for our clients. It’s not only allowed us to welcome more people into our community but also expanded our offerings with services like group training, metabolic conditioning, and now, yoga and Pilates. It’s a tangible symbol of how far we’ve come and a reflection of the trust and loyalty our clients have shown us.
What are your goals for 2025?
Our goals for 2025 are ambitious yet achievable. First, we aim to solidify our standing as a premier destination for fitness and therapeutic recovery in The Vale of Glamorgan. We’re also planning to expand our wellness offerings, including nutrition coaching and more recovery-focused therapies, to provide our clients with a truly holistic experience. Lastly, we’ll focus on outreach programs within the community, introducing workshops for both fitness newcomers and seasoned athletes.
What’s the best thing about running a business in The Vale of Glamorgan?
The best part of running a business in The Vale of Glamorgan is the incredible sense of community and support. There’s a genuine warmth and willingness to support local businesses here. Our clients and community members are loyal, encouraging, and genuinely invested in seeing local businesses thrive. This environment allows us to grow authentically and foster lasting connections with our clients, who feel like family.
