Horsham-based female personal trainer, Becky, is aware that she cultivates community with her work. She explains more about her values as a business owner…
Prior to setting up my own business as a personal trainer, I’d had careers in events and marketing, plus time spent working for a local charity. Within these roles, I’d learned a lot about corporate values, and how best to give something back to your community. As an individual, there are several things I strongly believe in, and I wanted to reflect that via my business…
Meaningful community support
During my time at university, we talked a lot about taking meaningful action, rather than doing something for the sake of it – the word “performative” wasn’t really in use at the time, but that’s what we were essentially discussing. We spoke about sponsorships and synergy at length – consumers are much more aware than brands think, and slapping a logo on an event doesn’t go down well unless there’s positive intent and alignment.
I carried that knowledge into the corporate world, and when given the responsibility for establishing partnerships, tried to make sure that they made sense, as well as doing something positive. One of the greatest perks of running my own business, is that I don’t have to seek permission from anyone else now – I can follow my heart, as well as what works for my business.
Allyship with the LGBTQIA+ community
Another part of my university experience involved frequenting bars decked out in rainbow flags. Truthfully, I visited a variety of establishments during my four years as a student, but I always felt safe and welcomed within these spaces in particular. As I’ve evolved since, I’ve learned more about the fight for equal rights, the history of various groups within the LGBTQIA+ community, and how the support of allies is critical. I haven’t always been a perfect ally, but this also isn’t new for me, and I believe in supporting marginalised communities as much as possible.
Why I chose to sponsor Crawley Pride
Having grown up near Brighton, one of the country’s biggest, and longest-established Pride events took place locally. I attended a Pride for the first time when I lived in London, and had a great time, as well as getting the opportunity to fully appreciate the importance of these spaces.
There are now several Prides within travel distance of my home and work – Brighton, Worthing, and Crawley. My work is based in Horsham, so Crawley is nearest, and it’s also the newest, so I researched the sponsorship options and mulled them over.
It wasn’t until I spent time chatting with some strangers when I was on holiday in June 2025 that I decided to go ahead: the year to date had been a very difficult time for the Trans community in particular – sadly, rights are being threatened or actively rolled back, and they’re getting negative media attention which spills over into public attitudes. Whether due to this, budget, or something else, the person I met on holiday pointed out that, “Prides need business support more than ever, because so many are withdrawing it”. The penny dropped, and my decision was made.
When I got back from my trip, I put an application in to sponsor Crawley Pride, and was delighted when it was accepted.
Attending Crawley Pride
My package included two tickets and, having not been to Crawley Pride previously, and wanting to be an engaged participant, I accepted the offer and kept the day clear. I took a friend with me, and we had a brilliant day – I loved the event setup, which provided a very welcoming and also peaceful atmosphere. It was also highly family-friendly and celebratory. Just from looking around, I could see how much this event mattered to people, and that it was a truly safe space that they could access.
The sentiments were echoed by headline performer, Danny Beard, when he took to the stage to close the night. It was Danny’s second Pride of the day, having performed in Wigan earlier and then travelled south to entertain us in Crawley. “Local Prides matter, and that’s why I do them,” he told the crowd, and I understood.
Crawley Pride 2026
Supporting the Crawley Pride event was something that I was very happy to do, and intend to do again in 2026. I would urge other organisations to do so if they can – sponsors are welcomed and appreciated, so if you are able to help, please click here to find out more. Maybe I’ll see you there…