Walsall woman battling brain tumour named rising star at Direct Selling Awards
A Walsall mum has been awarded a national business award after being named a ‘rising star’ at the UK’s Diamonds of Direct Selling Awards.
Jess Muxlow was awarded the Rising Star of the Year accolade which is given to a newcomer to the industry who has made a significant impact and fully embraced the opportunities that direct selling can offer.
The 25-year-old mum established her direct sales business selling Usborne books in 2023 after being diagnosed with a brain tumour and chronic illness.
In an attempt to create a better work-life balance, manage regular medical appointments and spend more time with her family, her partner Lee and daughter Freya, she left her 9am to 5pm job and now focuses solely on her Usborne direct selling business.
The national awards, hosted by the Direct Selling Association - the UK industry body for direct-to-consumer retail, recognise the best individuals in the UK direct selling industry which includes brands such as Avon and Oriflame.
This year the awards also celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Direct Selling Association.
Direct selling is a £908 million-a-year retail channel in the UK and an estimated 320,000 people across the country work in direct selling, considered by many to be the ‘original side hustle’. The average amount earned is £833 per month.
Susannah Schofield OBE, director general of the Direct Selling Association, said: “Jess has successfully established her direct selling business while living with serious medical conditions and juggling a range of other commitments, not least the demands of being a working parent, and I offer my sincere congratulations. Jess is an inspiration.”
Jess was presented with her award at a ceremony at Chesford Grange, Warwickshire, on May 1.
