Izabela, Manager at Amersham Owned

“Amersham Owned is a big part of the Amersham community"

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Amersham Owned has community, sustainability, your well-being and the future of the planet at its heart. What’s more, the products will delight and inspire, and the best bit? … all the profits go to supporting the work of The Hospice of St Francis in your local community!  

We caught up with Shop Manager Izabela. Originally from Poland, she’s lived in Chesham for the last 7 years. Describing Amersham Owned as sustainable, unique and full of generosity, we learn more about her role and what she loves most about working at the Hospice’s newest shop… 

How did you find the role at the shop, Izabela? “I found the Deputy Manager role being advertised online and have been working in this position for the last year. As time passed, I took the opportunity to develop my skillset to manager position.” 

When not working, Izabela enjoys cooking, gardening and playing with my son. She loves to bake for the AMO team, read books and being out in nature. She loves all animals and has a cat called Dora, who is white with bright blue eyes! 

Izabela explains the importance of the shop, “Amersham Owned is a big part of the Amersham community. Our aim is to be kind, respectful and always here to help. 

Each day is different. I train volunteers and DofE students for work experience, and when it is less busy, I will be focusing on; sorting our donations, pricing items, changing manikins, dressing the shop floor and supporting my team members.” 

Did you know of the Hospice before you worked here?“I admit, I did not know much about this particular Hospice before working here. I knew that the shops support the Hospice and that the care they provide is free for the patients and their families. However, I have learnt so much within my role already and that the care they provide makes such a difference to local people’s lives.” 

What is your favourite part of the job?“My favourite part of being part of the Amersham Owed family is that every day is varied, and it gives me a sense of purpose. It feels great to be part of a large community and I am proud to spread awareness of the work that the Hospice does. I also love meeting new people and finding out why they give to the Hospice. I enjoy listening to their stories - it reaffirms how important the Hospice is to so many families.” 

Favourite memory at the shop?“Its difficult to choose one favourite memory at the shop because I love every shift! I would choose our first Christmas party last year, becausewe were all together and celebrated our fantastic team – including our amazing volunteers. A great time was had! 

hat are you most excited about for Christmas, at the shop?“The most exciting thing about the Christmas in the shop is the spirit within the team.  

The festive season instills a lovely warm feeling within me. We enjoy the music, decorating the shop floor, and enjoying the build-up to the holiday season. We prepare our big Christmas event; hosting an afternoon of mulled wine, cakes with a raffle and lucky dip for our customers and their children.  

We often get feedback from our customers saying they love how beautiful the shop looks and how welcoming we are. This really makes my day.” 

Do you still need to visit our Amersham shop? You can find the team at 23 Woodside Rd, Amersham, HP6 6AA