In 2024, Havas Media Network took its Boost programme to Manchester with one goal in mind: to support underrepresented entrepreneurs in the North West with real investment—specifically, £150,000 worth of media, strategic support, and agency firepower. Our intent was to find someone doing powerful work in their community and help them scale it.
We launched a whole media campaign across the region – outdoor, social, digital – working closely with various media owners to reach the people we built the programme for. That included an unmissable billboard in central Manchester. Christina Taylor saw it on her morning commute, took a photo, and sent in her application. A few weeks later, she was in our pitch room in Manchester, presenting to a panel of Havas leaders, D&I specialists, and entrepreneur Sian Gabbidon. Although the other finalists were incredibly strong, Christina proved to be the winner by a landslide.
Christina is the founder of Aim Sky High Talent, a creative and talent agency that supports underrepresented voices across sports, entertainment, and youth culture. What started as a small dance studio has grown into a platform that’s helped young performers reach international stages – working with artists such as Stormzy, Giggs and Justin Bieber. Aim Sky High Talent now includes influencer representation for well-known names like Mary Earps.
Since winning Boost, Christina’s story has been picked up across the industry. Coverage landed in Campaign UK, Little Black Book, The Media Leader, Prolific North, Startups Magazine and more. She’s spoken on stage at the inaugural MADI/UpNorth, expanded her team and continued to work with Havas as a strategic partner.
While the numbers behind Boost – 13,000+ site visits and over 100 applicants – are impressive, it’s Christina’s story that’s helped others believe the offer is real. Her journey now sits at the centre of how we talk about Boost: not as a case study, but as proof of what happens when access and ambition come together and are truly supported.
Havas Boost Business is offering funding and support to business owners in Yorkshire, The North West and the North East of England. One business will be awarded up to £150,000 worth of cash and tailored support to help them grow and scale. You can find out how to apply here