AN INSIPIRATIONAL Flintshire woman has launched a unique business which is set to revolutionise employment referencing processes. 

Charlene Flynn, from Holywell, has founded Reference Me - the first Candidate Led digital employment reference service.

The 39-year-old is a distinguished entrepreneur, whose inspiring journey from poverty to success includes service in the Royal Air Force, academic excellence, and entrepreneurial achievements.

The platform will initially be rolled out across the UK, targeting businesses and HR professionals to establish a strong foundation. This phase will focus on gathering user feedback and refining the platform based on early user experiences.

Following the national launch, the platform will extend its reach to international markets, offering a reliable, efficient, and secure solution to global employment referencing challenges.

Charlene said: “In launching Reference Me, I am not only committed to revolutionising the employment journey and onboarding processes for each company and each candidate, but also to making a positive impact in North Wales. I expect our company to create jobs and local opportunities, contributing to the economic growth of our community.”

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Charlene also manages three businesses, including a Clwydian Lavender and Colman Kayman HR Services - all while raising three children. 

Growing up in poverty in Blacon, Chester, Charlene worked exceptionally hard to provide her children with opportunities she lacked. Her service in the Royal Air Force instilled in her discipline and a strong work ethic, which she carried into her academic and entrepreneurial pursuits. Her story is one of determination, resilience, and success, making her a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.

She said: "I experienced the stark realities of poverty, wearing hand-me-down clothes and shoes and living among some of the poorest in society. The crime rates in our neighbourhood were high, children were facing drug problems and unthinkable circumstance."

Devastatingly, a young girl on her street was murdered and many other children were subject to terrible violence and poor living standards.

Despite their challenging circumstances, Charlene had inspiring role models within her family. Her maternal grandparents successfully established a business in Holywell turning a derelict farm into Pet Funeral Services, a now beautiful resting place for beloved pets from all over the world.

Her paternal uncle founded well-respected aviation businesses, Aeris Aviation Limited and Channel Jets. Meanwhile, her parents worked tirelessly and eventually built a holiday home rental business, Stoneleigh Cottages. Witnessing their hard work and success ignited a spark of hope and determination in Charlene.

Charlene, despite leaving school with poor GCSE results, went on to join the RAF as a mechanical engineer - before enrolling on a Law degree at university. She founded Colman Kayman HR Services and is also the joint owner of Clwydian Lavender - which has seen a disused gorse field turned into a lavender farm. 

She added: “This project is more than a business endeavour to me—it’s a testament to perseverance and hope for those who grow up in poverty stricken areas where it may seem impossible to break the mould. I hope it inspires others to keep striving and fighting for better.”