Eleonore Dresch left her job as a BBC programme editor to found Culture Whisper.
Culture Whisper is the London guide that keeps you updated on the best upcoming events in the capital and gives you free surprise tickets for a London event every month.
She loves Italian cinema and Mamma Andersson and is not afraid of taking her three sons to see contemporary dance at Sadler’s Wells.
Tell us a bit about yourself, background and your current role
I am the founder and CEO of Culture Whisper, which I launched five years ago. CW is an online magazine/platform for London lovers and doers. It curates the best of things to do in London. Readers can also subscribe to a membership service and receive free tickets and invitations to amazing events all year long
Did you ever sit down and plan your career?
Not really, I am more of an instinctive person. I first went into journalism after graduating in international affairs at the London School of Economics. I worked for the BBC for more than 10 years, producing and editing programmes very much on the hard news side of things. It was great fun but I felt at some point that I wanted to create my own publishing platform and talk about things that help all of us live a better life. London is an amazing city yet I thought I failed to make the most of it. So I decided to create a service and magazine that would inspire Londoners to re-discover their city, a refined guide that would make a difference in people’s life.
Have you faced any challenges along the way?
Of course! It has been a roller coaster! But I am not regretting any of it. If you are not up for a challenge though, don’t become an entrepreneur!
How do you feel about mentoring? Have you mentored anyone or are you someone’s mentee?
I have many mentors and wouldn’t have managed to achieve what I have achieved without them. And I do feel very strongly about mentoring. I have started helping a couple of young women entrepreneurs. I strongly believe in support and advice. Being an entrepreneur is about being brave and confident, and overcome your fear. Having someone to support you along the way is crucial.
What do you want to see happen within the next five years when it comes to diversity?
As a sole female founder, I think diversity is key for the success of a business. And I do believe people’s mindset is changing. But it is taking time and I hope we see many more successful women entrepreneurs in the years to come.
What has been your biggest achievement to date?
Creating a brand that people trust and love with the help of fabulously talented, creative and hard working people.
What is your next challenge and what are you hoping to achieve in the future?
I want to see Culture Whisper grow and expend beyond London.
