After leaving school, Belle embarked on a career in healthcare, qualifying as a diagnostic radiographer in 2012. Over the next ten years, Belle worked in this role, where attention to detail, problem-solving and critical thinking were essential. Whilst the work was rewarding, Belle says she always had an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to create something of her own. In this account, she shares the story of her path to founding SealStop.

"The idea for SealStop came to me in an everyday situation whilst working on my smallholding. I’d often leave the hose running to fill containers or water troughs, only to get distracted and come back to find everything overflowing. The wasted water and frustration made me realise there had to be a better way to manage it. That’s when the concept for SealStop started to take shape.

Even without a background in product design, my experience as a radiographer had honed my critical thinking and attention to detail - skills I applied to developing SealStop’s mechanics. I wanted the device to be practical, straightforward, and compatible with any standard hose, making it easy for anyone to use.

At the same time, I realised I needed to learn a lot about business. I earned my Association of Accounting Technicians Level 2 qualification to manage the finances and completed a Level 2 Digital Marketing course to help me promote the product. I even gained my Class 1 HGV licence - because let’s face it, you’ve got to aim big! In addition to those qualifications, I taught myself business planning, product development, and marketing strategies, with a little help along the way.

The journey hasn’t always been easy. I’ve faced challenges at every stage, from designing the initial product to testing prototypes. But I was determined to make it work. My years in healthcare trained me to think on my feet and solve problems under pressure; skills that were invaluable in launching my business. Gradually, SealStop took shape. Once I had a working prototype, I tested it with family and friends, refining it based on their feedback.

By 2023, I officially launched SealStop, transitioning from healthcare to running my business full-time. It’s been a steep learning curve where I've had to  manage everything from product development and logistics to marketing campaigns. But over time, I’ve built a business that not only solves a real problem but also helps save water and reduce waste.

Reflecting on my journey, I can see how every experience, from my years as a radiographer to my business qualifications, and even my HGV licence, has contributed to SealStop’s development. It’s been a path of continuous learning and adaptation, and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved.

Now, I hope to share my story with others to show that with determination and a willingness to learn, even everyday problems can inspire innovative solutions. SealStop is more than just a product; it’s the result of years of learning, growth, and persistence."