Tyra Oseng-Rees Attends Downing Street Reception to Champion Small Business and Representation

Tyra Oseng-Rees outside the iconic Number 10 Downing Street

Tyra Oseng-Rees, founder of Oseng-Rees Reflection Ltd, was recently invited to NO11 Downing Street for a special reception hosted by the Rt Hon Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer. The event, organised by Small Business Britain and The Small Awards, and supported by Lloyds Banking Group brought together a select group of entrepreneurs to celebrate the vital role small businesses play in the UK economy.

The reception recognised the contribution of small businesses to innovation, job creation, and community resilience. As a leader in sustainable design and circular economy practices, Tyra was among those invited to represent the entrepreneurial spirit that drives economic and social progress across the country.

One of the most memorable moments of the day came when Chancellor Reeves shared a personal story about her time at Number 11. Upon moving into the Chancellor’s residence, she redesigned the reception room, removing portraits that predominantly featured men and replacing them with works by female artists and portraits of women from all walks of life. When she spoke about this, the entire energy of the room shifted, it was as if the often-overlooked qualities of leadership, compassion, strength, vulnerability, and vision were finally allowed to be visible and celebrated.

Tyra Oseng-Rees in front of the suffragette statue photo by David Madden

 This is more than a gesture. It is a powerful reminder that representation matters, and that change towards an equal society is not only possible—it’s already happening.

To quote myself from my International Women’s Day post on March 8:

“Women leaders create environments where people feel valued, seen, and heard, fostering better teamwork, innovation, and well-being in the workplace. If I could change one thing, it would be for these qualities to be widely recognised and valued, not as ‘soft’ or secondary traits but as the foundation of exceptional leadership.”

Tyra Oseng-Rees in front of No 10 in Downing Street

The Small Business Britain and Small Awards team gathered in front of Number 10

This visit to Downing Street marks a significant milestone in the journey as a sustainability advocate and creative entrepreneur. It also reinforces the importance of inclusive leadership and the transformative power of small businesses in shaping a more equitable future.

A selfie post-reception photo with somke of the fellow entrepreneurs and the SmallBiz team