KMH Management is a culmination of my background in the events industry, my experiences as an entrepreneur and investor, and my passion for supporting other business owners. I knew that by bringing all these elements together, I could share what I have learnt and encourage more entrepreneurs and brands to take their success to the next level.
Tell us about the business – what it is, what it aims to achieve, who you work with, how you reach customers and so on?
We are a full-service events, promotions, and brand management agency, which also incorporates a business mentoring and business networking arm. As a mentor, I work with entrepreneurs internationally in a wide range of sectors at different stages of growth. I also host business masterclasses in different countries, as well as larger group networking sessions and retreats.
How has the business evolved since its launch?
My initial focus was on running events. Then I decided to introduce my own networking events in Dubai, featuring motivational speakers and coaches. At the same time, I started hosting small group mentoring programmes, specifically for female business owners. The events and mentoring sessions kept selling out and I got more and more requests for individual mentoring - this has now become the most rewarding component of my business and I mentor both men and women. As the mentoring sessions are held predominantly online, my client base has gradually expanded from the UAE to the UK, Asia and the US.
Tell us about the working culture at KMH Events?
I would say it’s a very team-spirited environment; everyone has an ‘all hands on deck’ attitude, getting stuck in and helping each other out across all areas the business. We are like a little family and whatever is going on, we try to stay positive and have fun.
What has been your biggest challenge so far and how have you overcome this?
Managing four young children and multiple businesses is a huge challenge. In the past, things have felt overwhelming and it’s easy to slip into feeling like there is never enough time in the day for work, family and myself. I have had to be extremely organised and that’s the reason I created my planner which really helped me stay focused and will hopefully help others reclaim a sense of control.
How does KMH Events answer an unmet need?
This is particularly evident on the business mentor side because I am an entrepreneur and investor, as well as a mentor. Therefore, I understand the challenges entrepreneurs face and I also know what investors are looking for when they analyse opportunities. This mix allows me to empathise, as well as to advise from a strategic perspective.
What’s in store for the future?
We are only going to get bigger and better in terms of the support we offer and the markets we target. Especially on the networking side, I want to build a powerful international community of entrepreneurs and like-minded business professionals who can learn and grow with each other’s support.
What one piece of advice would you give other founders or future founders?
Never take no for an answer and don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do. People will always try to hold you back because of their own frustrations and insecurities, so don’t anyone limit your potential – they are not worth it.
And finally, a more personal question! What’s your daily routine and the rules you’re living by at the moment?
With so much going on, my daily routine changes but my non-negotiables are working out every morning and taking time for self-care, weekly team meetings to keep everyone motivated and on the same page, and quality time with my kids when they get home after 3pm.
Kelly Marie Hodgkin is the founder and CEO of KMH Events.
