“What Feels Like Failure Today is a Lesson for Tomorrow” – Victoria Price Inspires at Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone Supporters Lunch
Blackburn, 27 January 2026
Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone welcomed patrons, supporters, local business leaders, and students to its latest Supporters Lunch on Tuesday, 27 January, offering an afternoon of connection, reflection, and inspiration.
Hosted in partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council, the quarterly event celebrates those who support the Youth Zone’s mission: empowering young people, sharing the impact of the Youth Zone’s work across the borough, and encouraging collaboration between local businesses and the community.
Charting Her Own Course
The highlight of the lunch was an open and candid conversation with leading entrepreneur and business leader Victoria Price, hosted by Andrew Graham MBE. Victoria’s story is a reminder that everyone’s journey is different and those differences can become strengths.
Victoria enjoyed a happy and conventional childhood, but at 17 her journey took an unexpected turn when she became a young mother. Determined to continue her education and build a future for her and her first born son, she navigated significant challenges – completing A-Levels through night school and pursuing demanding accountancy qualifications through self-study.
Throughout it all, Victoria refused to be defined by circumstance. Her rise from these early obstacles to senior leadership roles in professional services is a powerful testament to resilience, self-belief, and unwavering determination.
Work, Life, and Purpose: Lessons Beyond the Job Title
Victoria spoke openly about balancing a global career with motherhood and personal ambition, exploring how professional success can coexist with family life. She reflected on the realities of juggling work, study, and family responsibilities, and shared how flexible working, mentoring, and inclusive leadership can shape not just careers, but people.
Her story resonated deeply with attendees, serving as a powerful reminder that life rarely follows a straight path. The discussion also encouraged local employers to rethink how they recognise and nurture talent, particularly in individuals with non-linear career journeys, highlighting that potential often appears in unexpected places, and that truly understanding the value of flexible working requires a personal awareness of the people you employ
Creativity, Entrepreneurship, and a New Chapter
Victoria’s focus has now shifted toward investing in businesses driven by values and purpose. Embracing creativity and collaboration, founding new luxury womenswear brand Emello reflects a new approach, trading spreadsheets for mood boards, numbers for imagination, and structure for innovation. Proof that even established leaders can thrive in chaos with vision and creativity.
Closing Reflections
Students from St Bede’s School, attending with 12 young female pupils, reflected on the impact:
“Just wanted to say a massive thanks for inviting us today. What an interesting and inspiring lady. The pupils we brought are those who need that kind of spark and someone to look up to.”
The event concluded with updates from Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, and closing remarks from Leon Crosby, Chief Executive of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, thanking supporters for their continued commitment to helping young people thrive.
For more information: To become a patron or attend future events, please contact melanie.thomas@blackburnyz.org