One of the UKs favourite vegan brands VEGAN Happy has been shortlisted from a long list of nominations, for the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award category in the Regional Finals of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards for the Midlands region.

Founder Lorri Delahunty turned her life around and now inspires others to go vegan - "one label at a time." Feeling frustrated at the lack of smart, classy clothing that is ethical as well as carrying a positive vegan message Lorri set up VEGAN Happy Clothing from her kitchen table 4 years ago.

 

She has worked tirelessly since donating a large amount of profits to animal sanctuaries and now offering even more cruelty free clothing and accessories that everyone can trust. Now celebrities, influencers as well as people all over the UK wear VEGAN Happy and Lorri has also just launched the brand in America after being inundated with requests from American vegans wanting her range.

Lorri says: "I did my happy dance and jumped up with joy when I opened the email from the Great Entrepreneur Awards. I was in shock. I never dreamt I would be a finalist in such a prestigious awards event and just keeping everything crossed that a vegan may win!"

Organisers at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards says: "We received a record 4,800 entries this year across our eight regions, so it has never been tougher to make it to the shortlist. Despite receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback on our virtual finals in 2020, it is our intention to hold live, in-person regional finals in September." 

Founder of the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, Francesca James, said: "We have seen some incredible finalists over the years, and this year is no exception. It really is one of the strongest shortlists we've ever had, and the fact that so many exceptional people have applied during such a tough year is a testament to the resolve and entrepreneurial talent that exists across the UK.
 

"As well as the recognition, our finalists and eventual winners will join our fantastic alumni community that supports each other all year round. From networking and thought leadership, right the way through to mentoring and guidance - being a part of our ecosystem of entrepreneurs can be incredibly rewarding. 

"Creating the shortlist out of so many wonderful applications were incredibly tough, so I don't envy the judges who will now decide the regional winners. Everyone who has been shortlisted should be incredibly proud and we're thrilled to be able to showcase their achievements."
 

Anne Boden MBE, founder of Starling Bank, headline partner for the Awards, said: "The events of the past year have touched everyone, be it through the health of friends and family, the isolation of restrictions or the wider impact on our livelihoods. However, businesses are made of people, and it's the incredible fortitude, determination and innovation of people like those shortlisted, that has helped our regions survive, and in some cases thrive.

"At Starling, we're proud to be working with the Great British Entrepreneur Awards and help champion the individuals who will lead the charge and shape our future economy as the nation looks to build back better and stronger."