11/06/2026
What does resilience really look like?
Recently, Melissa Harriman owner of Bella-Rose Accessories joined Tina Jesson on the Innovative People Podcast to share a powerful story of courage, determination, and transformation.
Following a severe car accident, Melissa’s life changed dramatically. Multiple spinal surgeries affected her confidence, independence, and ability to do many of the things she once took for granted. Like many people facing life-changing circumstances, she found herself withdrawing from the world and rarely wanting to leave her home.
Everything began to change when her carer encouraged her to attend a Skilled Hands workshop.
What started as a 12-week millinery course became the beginning of a remarkable journey. Melissa went on to complete our Jewellery Making and Bag Making programmes, developing new skills, building confidence, and reconnecting with her creativity.
But perhaps the most inspiring part of her story is what happened next.
Using the skills she learned, Melissa started her own small business and successfully sold her handmade products at her children’s school fair. Her determination and entrepreneurial spirit earned her the Skilled Hands Woman of the Moment Award, recognising not only her achievements but the resilience that made them possible.
Stories like Melissa’s remind us that empowerment is about more than learning a skill. It is about rebuilding confidence, creating opportunities, and helping people discover what they are capable of achieving.
At Skilled Hands, we are proud to support women on these journeys and to celebrate their successes through initiatives such as our annual Red Carpet event, where participants showcase their work, share their stories, and inspire others.
Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your journey so openly, and thank you to Tina Jesson for hosting such a meaningful conversation.
🎧 Watch the full interview via the link below.
https://youtu.be/_D9da86yg3I?is=NxKfvuRKaOH-YH3e
What does resilience mean to you?
