The RSA say that this election recognises Valerie's distinguished career as an entrepreneur, mentor and speaker and acknowledges her significant contribution to encouraging women in business, locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. News of her diverse achievements, also including her community contributions as a Trustee for several charities, Chairmanship of a Groundwork Trust and a Local Strategic Partnership plus her inspirational speaking at enterprise and sustainability conferences and events came to the attention of the RSA in-house research team who seek out potential Fellows who are innovative, engaged, accomplished and creative.
 
Valerie said:
"I am delighted to become a Fellow of the RSA and to join so many distinguished achievers who are working to change the world. I intend to be an active Fellow, continuing to champion women and women's enterprise. Having started my own businesses, I know how liberating it is. My belief is that 'Everything is Possible™' and my passion is to encourage everyone to achieve their full potential, especially through enterprise. I love to be there to help them create their own success."
 
RSA Fellows include experts in science, ethics and environment; leaders in commercial, voluntary and public sectors; innovative social entrepreneurs, people such as Tim Smit, founder of the Eden Project; Andy Powell, Chief Executive of Edge and Luke Johnson, Chairman of Channel 4 Television. 
 
Founded in 1754, the RSA is the cradle of enlightenment thinking, to encourage enterprise and be a force for social progress. The RSA approach is multi-disciplinary, politically independent and combines cutting edge research and policy development with practical action. Their latest publication about the RSA Fellowship is entitled: "We know you want to change the world, but where on earth do you begin?" www.theRSA.org   
 
Valerie can be reached at info@mywonderfullifecoach.co.uk and her speaking profile and information can be found at www.womenspeakers.co.uk To sign up for Valerie Dwyer Group's free 'Winspiration™ Latest News and Opportunities Newsletter, or to view their archive go to www.mywonderfullifecoach.co.uk      - ends -Ref:         VAD/GP/RSA/CC1-09                  Date: 12th August 2009
 
ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION - 
RSA
    The RSA, founded in 1754, is the cradle of enlightenment thinking, to encourage enterprise and be a force for social progress. In 1770 they launched the first environmental awards to encourage the reduction of smoke emissions. Many mature trees that we enjoy today result from their pioneering tree planting campaign in 1806. In 1872 they appointed a committee to improve girls' education More recently they have been instrumental in 'Tomorrow's Company' exploring sustainable business success; 'Opening Minds' to re-think the school curriculum; 'Design Directions' student awards; 'Adelphi Charter on Creativity, Innovation and Intellectual Property'; 'Arts and Ecology'; 'RSA Drugs Commission Report' and the 'Tipton Academy'. 
 
Valerie Dwyer
    Enterprise was Valerie's route out of childhood poverty. She is especially keen to help others have the opportunity for 'Enterprise Adventures'. She believes that 'Everything is Possible™ and has been recognised by The Prince's Trust for her outstanding commitment in volunteering to help young people succeed though self-employment - giving 10 years service as a mentor. One of 1,000 plus UK Ambassadors for Women's Enterprise, Valerie was a finalist in the ACCA sponsored Prowess National Award for Outstanding Contribution to Women's Enterprise Development. Valerie is recognised for a number of 'female firsts' - creating the pathway and mentoring women to take up Board level roles - for example as:-

In for a Penny - A Business Adventure

Currently reviewing 'Fulfilled - A Personal Revolution in 7 Steps'  for multimillionaire entrepreneur and author Deirdre Bounds