Last night, we were proud to attend the Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine Awards at the Spa Hotel – an evening that celebrates ambition, innovation and the people shaping the local business landscape. It was an especially meaningful night for Braeburn Care, as our CEO, Harriet Smith, was honoured with the Entrepreneur of the Year award.
This recognition reflects far more than individual success. It represents a journey built on resilience, values-led leadership and an unwavering belief that businesses can grow while putting people first. To be recognised among so many inspiring organisations and leaders across the region made the evening truly memorable.
An Evening Celebrating Local Business Excellence
The Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine Awards bring together businesses from across the area to recognise achievement, innovation and positive impact. Hosted at the Spa Hotel, the evening provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow local leaders, celebrate shared successes and reflect on the strength of our business community.
Events like this play an important role in showcasing the diversity and ambition of businesses operating across Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding areas. Being part of an evening dedicated to recognising local enterprise reinforces the importance of collaboration, community and shared learning.
The Entrepreneur of the Year award in particular celebrates those who demonstrate vision, resilience and leadership – qualities that have been central to Braeburn Care’s journey.
Recognising Leadership with Purpose
Receiving the Entrepreneur of the Year award is a proud moment for Harriet, but it is also a reflection of the wider team behind Braeburn Care. Leadership, particularly in the care sector, is never a solo effort. It requires trust, shared purpose and a commitment to doing the right thing – even when the path isn’t always easy.
From navigating the challenges of relaunching and growing a care business, to embedding strong governance, quality standards and community partnerships, the journey has been one of constant learning and adaptation. This award recognises that entrepreneurial leadership doesn’t only exist in growth figures or strategy – it exists in culture, values and impact.
The Power Behind the Journey: A Leadership Team United
Attending the awards alongside Harriet were Katy and Micheala, whose presence represented the true force behind Braeburn Care. As a close-knit leadership team, their shared commitment, collaboration and trust have been instrumental in shaping the organisation we are today.
From overseeing quality and compliance, to supporting Care Professionals and customers through complex and emotional journeys, their leadership is felt across every part of the business. Moments like this highlight the importance of strong leadership teams – where success is shared, and achievements are celebrated together.
The Entrepreneur of the Year award belongs not just to one person, but to the collective effort, belief and dedication of the team driving Braeburn Care forward.
With Thanks to the Awards Organisers and Sponsors
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine for hosting such a well-organised and inspiring event, and for continuing to champion local businesses through these awards.
A special thank you also goes to Synergee, the sponsor of the Entrepreneur of the Year award. Sponsorship plays an important role in supporting events like this and recognising leadership across the local business community. Their involvement helps shine a spotlight on entrepreneurship and innovation in the region.
Being recognised at the Entrepreneur of the Year awards is made even more meaningful through the support of organisations committed to celebrating local success.
What This Recognition Means for Braeburn Care
While awards are never the reason we do what we do, recognition like this offers an opportunity to pause and reflect. It reinforces our belief that values-driven businesses can thrive, and that care-led organisations have an important role to play in the wider business community.
For Braeburn Care, the Entrepreneur of the Year award strengthens our commitment to:
- Delivering high-quality, person-centred care
- Supporting and valuing our Care Professionals
- Building trusted relationships with customers and families
- Remaining deeply connected to our local community
It also reminds us that leadership is about responsibility – to our team, our customers and the people who place their trust in us every day.
Looking Ahead
As we move forward into 2026, we do so with pride, gratitude and ambition. This award marks an important milestone in our journey, but it is very much part of a bigger picture – one focused on sustainable growth, community impact and continuous improvement.
Thank you to everyone who has supported Braeburn Care along the way – our team, our customers, our partners and the wider business community. We look forward to continuing this journey together.
