About
Hello from Dorset Spotlight
DORSET SPOTLIGHT CIC
A bi-monthly digital magazine with purpose!
Dorset Spotlight started in May 2021, as a social media platform showcasing local athletes and team achievements, sharing health and wellness advice from local experts, and supporting local charities by giving them a platform to share their fundraisers stories and upcoming events.
“My husband and his friends had success at bodybuilding events, with one friend becoming a professional bodybuilder and given the opportunity to compete worldwide. After failing to get any interest from local media in sharing their news, I knew something was missing locally. There are some incredible Dorset athletes and teams, in a variety of different sports, achieving great things, but not being showcased as they deserved.”
“I launched the first Dorset Spotlight magazine in March 2022. The March/April issue was a success, and I was delighted that some amazing athletes wanted to be involved, with Team England Para-surfer Zoe Smith, as our first cover star.
The magazine evolved and the word started to spread, but over time from interviewing athletes that competed for England or Team GB, I was hearing the same thing – some athletes who were competing for our country even had to pay for their competition entry fees and kit! They were also needing to find funds to pay for travel, food, accommodation, training, and physiotherapy etc…
I knew I needed to do something to help, as some exceptionally talented athletes had no choice but to give up on their dream, as they simply couldn’t afford to compete or didn’t have the right support network around them to get sponsorship. The loss of their dream and their purpose had a massive detrimental effect on the athlete’s mental health.”
“After the Pandemic and being in lockdown, we all became aware of the importance of exercise for both our physical and mental wellbeing. Our local athletes, who are at the top of their game, are inspiring not only other athletes but the younger generation. The power of sport not only encourages us to be fit and healthy, but it entertains and unites us as a country.
So, in July 2023, Dorset Spotlight digital magazine became a Community Interest Company. Through the sale of advertising in our magazine, our ‘Not for Profit’ company will help Dorset athletes who compete for England or Team GB, or who are on the pathway to compete at this level, with buying kit or paying for their competition entry fees.”
Dawn Exley – Founder
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In loving memory of Pauline O’Grady
Pauline was an extraordinary woman, and I was lucky enough to call her my best friend. She had a real zest for life and touched our community with her kind heart and fun nature!
On the 2nd of June 2009, together with friends and family, we took part in a charity tandem skydive raising money for Forest Holme Hospice, where she spent her final weeks.
On the 19th of September 2010, she sadly lost her battle with bowel cancer.
This is for you, Pauline! Big love as always, keep shining bright! x
