Jane’s careers business aimed at mums gets recognition for decade of life-enhancing work
Jane Knight, founder of a Bromley-based career advisory business, has been awarded the 2024 Mayor of London Adult Learning Award for inspirational professionals in adult education.
Over the past decade, Jane’s Successful Mums Careers Academy has boosted the confidence of 10,000 women and empowered them to return to work or start their own business after having children.
The mother of two’s dedication and impact stood out among a record 329 nominations, recognising individuals and organisations making a difference in London’s education sector. These prestigious awards were launched in 2022 by Mayor Sadiq Khan.
The awards ceremony, held yesterday at City Hall, was a powerful evening of tributes. Family, friends and leaders from London’s education and skills sector gathered to honour Jane and the other winners.
A moving video tribute showcased Jane’s transformative work, highlighting the confidence, skills and career pathways Successful Mums has given to thousands of women.
Jane, 51, from Bromley, said: “Winning this award is an incredible honour, especially as we celebrate 10 years of Successful Mums Career Academy. What began as a goal to help 100 mums has become a movement, with over 10,000 London mums (and dads) supported back into work.”
Successful Mums offers funded courses, webinars and events that address common barriers mums encounter – confidence, career advice and childcare – emphasising the transferable skills they bring to the workplace.
Designed by mums for mums, Successful Mums courses cover topics including digital skills, CV support and personal branding, catering to women from diverse backgrounds, including over 50s and domestic violence survivors. Jane has also built a network of over 500 employers eager to hire skilled women returners to support the economy skills gap.
Jane added: “Together with my amazing team, we’ve created a winning model of funded courses, career pathways and community support that open doors for mums and drives social mobility across the capital. Becoming a parent should enhance, not halt your career and I’m so proud of the positive impact we’re making on so many women returners and their families.”
The evening also included a touching tribute to Successful Mums graduate Alkarim Haji from Bexley, who was posthumously awarded Inspirational Adult Learner of the Year.
Alkarim, a father-of-two who passed away in September at 62, had recently transformed his life through Successful Mums, earning multiple qualifications and launching a self-defence business to empower women to manage aggressive situations.
His family accepted the award on his behalf, a moment that Jane described as both “proud and profoundly moving.” Alkarim has also been shortlisted for an ERSA Employability Award in the Outstanding Participant category.
Jane said: “Alkarim’s journey was one of extraordinary courage and determination, turning personal challenges into opportunities for growth.”
For more information about Successful Mums or to register for a course, visit www.successfulmums.co.uk.
Pictured top: Jane Knight collects her award (Picture: SMCA)