Donna’s Journey to Entrepreneurship 

Donna Vaughan, 60, has transformed her life from homelessness to becoming a budding entrepreneur, thanks to the support of Crisis and PRIME Cymru. 

After a challenging marriage breakdown, Donna found herself without a home. Crisis, a charity dedicated to ending homelessness, provided her with the assistance she needed to regain stability. With their help, Donna secured a flat and began rebuilding her life.

Donna Vaughan

Keen to make a new start, Donna decided to turn her hobby of making handbags into a business. In the past, Donna has used denim and cloth to make bags for friends and family. The positive feedback she received inspired her to consider turning it into a source of income.

“I thought, why not start selling them?”, Donna said. 

Donna loves the creative process, and she has plenty of experience in the fashion industry under her belt, having spent years making ladieswear for Marks & Spencer. 

Her path to entrepreneurship became clearer when the Job Centre recommended a PRIME Cymru business session, run by Tracy Eynon. Tracy has been a huge help, guiding her through the business planning stage. 

Donna said: “Tracy is really lovely. She explains things well and puts things into perspective.” 

With Tracy’s support, Donna is now working towards establishing her handbag business. She aims to sell her creations online, reaching a broader audience.  

In the near future, Donna hopes to secure funding for a cutting machine, which will significantly reduce her production times.  

Donna’s story is a testament to resilience and shows it’s never too late to try something new.  With the continued guidance of PRIME Cymru and her determination, she is on her way to achieving her entrepreneurial dreams. 

If you are aged 50+ and would like support to start a business, please get in touch on 01550 721 813 or email enquiries@primecymru.co.uk.