A business owner has been named as one of the UK’s most 100 inspirational female entrepreneurs.

Roshni Dalia, aged 27 from Harrow, has owned Notting Hill Gate Opticians since 2018, and her work has been recognised by Small Business Britain’s f-Entrepreneur ‘#ialso100’ campaign.

After qualifying as an optometrist in 2012, she worked as a resident and locum optometrist for leading brands and independent businesses, with a dream to open her own independent opticians one day.

But she knew that considering she had no experience in running a business, she would have to overcome many challenges.

Her strong work ethic, determination and discipline enabled her to become the owner of her own independent practice.

The campaign aims to showcase female entrepreneurs that lead small businesses as well as other responsibilities – such as volunteering, mentoring and community support.

On being listed in the #ialso100, Roshni said: “I am truly honoured to be named as one of the top female entrepreneurs, particularly at a time when the coronavirus pandemic has created unprecedented uncertainty in the business world and continues to have a profound effect on so many small businesses.

She continued: ‘It is a privilege to be recognised alongside such remarkable and inspirational women. I hope to use this platform to inspire young women to follow their dreams, to show that with hard work and determination, anything can be achieved, no matter how impossible it may seem.”

Michelle Ovens, who founded Small Business Britain, said: “Congratulations to all the inspiring women chosen to join this year’s #ialso100.

“Despite the significant obstacles thrown at them in the last year, female entrepreneurship continues to grow and flourish. We need to continue, and increase, our support for these incredible women and celebrate their amazing strength and success in the face of huge challenges.

“We have seen so many women embracing change, generating and exploring new ideas, rallying around their communities and supporting their peers. This resilience is hugely valuable and will set them up for success as they will be at the very heart of the UK’s recovery.”