NEWS

Leeds Businesswoman Launches Retail Hub to Champion Independent Black-owned Brands with Support from RTC North.

Award-winning businesswoman Karen Williams, founder of Sanyan, has launched a boutique and creative retail hub designed to help local entrepreneurs bring their products to market.

Sanyan, based in Leeds, has been founded by Karen Williams, a fashion designer and creative entrepreneur whose contemporary African-inspired fashion has already gained regional recognition. Sanyan was founded on a simple belief: clothing should adapt to women, not the other way around. Rooted in African heritage and designed for modern life, Sanyan creates premium, adaptable pieces that balance comfort, versatility and effortless style.

Karen has been supported by Jane McGeeney, Business Support Specialist at RTC, through the Innovative Entrepreneurs Programme (IEP) focused on early-stage business growth. Jane provided specialist guidance to help shape the next stage of Sanyan’s development through a structured diagnostic and coaching process that helped clarify long-term vision and growth priorities. Together they developed an action plan focused on brand positioning, market opportunities and clarified the value proposition. Support also included introductions to relevant opportunities and regional support networks, guidance on pitching and investment readiness, and coaching that helped Karen successfully secure a £5,000 as an IEP pitch competition winner. Jane subsequently referred Sanyan into Innovate UK High Growth support to help the business continue its growth and internationalisation ambitions.

The long-term vision for Sanyan is to become a leading premium fashion and accessories brand, whilst developing its Leeds Boutique into a permanent creative and cultural hub and a launchpad for emerging independent Black-owned brands. The space aims to help businesses gain visibility, grow sustainably and create opportunities for the next generation of creatives.

Karen’s work has also been recognised at the Yorkshire Black Business Awards, where she was recently named ‘Retailer of the Year’. The awards celebrate the achievements, innovation and entrepreneurship of Black African and Caribbean-owned businesses across Yorkshire.

Jane, commented:

"It has been a privilege to work with Karen throughout her entrepreneurial journey. Her vision for Sanyan combines creativity, cultural heritage and a genuine commitment to helping women feel confident through adaptable fashion. During the programme she demonstrated remarkable determination, growing both her business and her confidence as a founder. The launch of this new retail hub and her recent Retailer of the Year award are well-deserved achievements, and I am excited to see the positive impact Sanyan will continue to have on Leeds' creative and entrepreneurial community."

Karen Williams, founder of Sanyan, added:

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received from RTC North through the Innovative Entrepreneurs Programme and especially from Jane McGeeney. Having someone who could challenge my thinking, help me to refine my vision and encourage me to think bigger has been invaluable.

The support has given me greater confidence as I continue to grow Sanyan as a fashion brand and a creative retail space. I’m excited about the future and the opportunities we are creating for our customers and other entrepreneurs.”

RTC North is a Certified B Corporation and employee‑owned organisation, reflecting its long‑standing commitment to using business as a force for good. This people‑first model ensures the organisation is governed in line with its purpose, values, and regional mission, with ownership held on behalf of its employees and a strong focus on long‑term impact.

Working with a wide range of partners including local authorities, universities, and the private sector, RTC offers expert advice in areas such as business growth, digital transformation, commercialisation, skills development, and internationalisation. RTC is committed to fostering enterprise, driving innovation, and empowering businesses to achieve sustainable and inclusive success across the North of England.