Best Children’s Business - Leigh-on-Sea

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Leigh On Sea News: Best Children’s Business – A LEIGH performing arts school focused on boosting the confidence of its young members is celebrating being named as a finalist for a major award.

Best Children’s Business - A LEIGH performing arts school focused on boosting the confidence of its young members is celebrating being named as a finalist for a major award.

A LEIGH performing arts school focused on boosting the confidence of its young members is celebrating being named as a finalist for a major award.

ZLH Studios, which was founded in February 2024 by Leigh resident Zoe Harrison, has made the regional finals for ‘Best Children’s Business’ in Essex 2025 by Muddy Stilettos.

Ms Harrison initially opened the business because she wanted to offer a performing arts education less focused on the pressure of performances.

“Although we are a performing arts studio, we’re also all about improving mental health in children and building their confidence,” she explained.

The core of her business is giving children the confidence they need to tackle challenges beyond the studio walls.

After just a year in business, Ms Harrison has seen the business expand hugely, offering classes in locations across Leigh, Benfleet, Hockley, Brentwood, Billericay, Chelmsford and Romford.

Reflecting on her recent nomination, she said: “I can’t believe my own year-old business has made the regional finals.

“I have built this from scratch, and I teach 38 classes a week. My passion has become my full-time job and I am so thankful.

“To be recognised against four long standing businesses is a complete honour.”

The other Essex businesses nominated n the Children’s category are KandiJam in Hockley; Mimibear in Colchester; The Happy Yellow Door Company in Rochford, and The Little Bear Soft Play Company in Chelmsford.

Ms Harrison continued: “I’m so grateful I get to do what I love; the mission has always been clear: to boost children’s confidence through my classes – and I can’t believe how many children I have taking classes every day, and how positive the feedback has been from parents and carers over Essex.

“I’d really appreciate your vote for me to win.

“Thank you all for your support and allowing me to live my dream”

To vote for ZHL Studios visit: https://essex.muddystilettos.co.uk/awards/finalists.

Picture: Zoe Harrison of ZHL Studios.

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