Meet Soho Works workmate, Jessica Bendien
We spoke to the Soho Works London member to hear about launching her first e-course and how she prepares for a new working week
Local Soho Works: Shoreditch
What challenges did you face this past year and how did you overcome them?
‘Back at the start of 2020, we were in the midst of casting celebrities for a bunch of TV shows, which either had to be pushed back or put on hold, for obvious reasons.
‘Having always wanted to find a way to merge my work life with my passion for self-development, I finally put pen to paper to create an online programme, Finding Fame (For Good). It’s a course designed for experts, authors, coaches and entrepreneurs looking for more visibility and recognition for themselves and their businesses. This is something I’ve wanted to do for at least five years, but just haven’t had the time – it feels great to finally put it out there.’
What are you currently working on?
‘Towards the end of last year, we filmed Celebrity Best Home Cook with Claudia Winkleman and Dame Mary Berry, which was on the BBC in January. We also booked the talent for our first Virtual Wellness Festival for Glamour magazine and ITV’s Don’t Rock The Boat, hosted by Freddie Flintoff and AJ Odudu, alongside a great team. I offer one-to-one mentoring for emerging talent, and as well as booking a number of TV development projects, I’m currently getting ready to lead the next group for Finding Fame (For Good). I’m super excited to watch the growth and impact of this course unfold.’
It’s been a funny year – what’s inspiring you at the moment?
‘The arts have been hit really hard and it’s awful to think of the number of creative freelancers out of work. But I’ve been so inspired by everyone’s strength and resilience, despite what’s going on. Many people have found new ways to adapt their old jobs and come up with ideas for totally new ones, which is exciting. My friends and community always inspire me, and I’m obsessed with and inspired by nurturing talent in others. So, I’ve loved working with a group of women in Finding Fame, all wanting to share their message and expertise with the world.’
Favourite quote/ words to live by?
‘So many. At the moment, it’s “work hard, play hard”. With all the uncertainty right now, it can be easy for me to fall into workaholic mode, so I’m really trying to create the perfect work/ life balance. I also love “Don’t go with the flow. Be the flow” by Rumi.’
What are your three essentials for a productive day?
‘My laptop, multiple cups of green tea, and remembering to breathe. If they aren’t present, chances are neither am I. Oh, and a notebook. I’m obsessed with stationery and am pretty old fashioned when it comes to writing things down.’
What do you do when you’re stuck for inspiration?
‘Go for a walk, swim, do lots of yin yoga or gather up some friends to brainstorm with. I have shelves of inspirational books, so I dig out one of those. Listen to music – always. And I usually try to travel as much as possible to clear my head.’
Have you got any Sunday night rituals before starting a new week?
‘I wouldn’t say I have any rituals as such, but Sundays normally start with a long walk on Hampstead Heath and brunch with friends, and end with hanging out with my cats.’