Hear directly from BNI members across South East London about the referrals, support, and growth they’ve experienced through BNI.
Real Stories From BNI Members
The best way to understand the impact of BNI is to hear from the people living it.
Across South East London, members talk about much more than referrals. They talk about business growth, stronger confidence, trusted support, and the kind of professional relationships that continue to create opportunities long after the weekly meeting ends.
Business Growth, Referrals And Real Opportunities
Hayley John-Charles (Multi Award Winning)
Not Just Travel
“I’ve been a proud BNI member for almost eight years, and one of the most powerful referrals I’ve received came in a way I didn’t expect. A fellow member recommended me on social media, and nearly two years later, someone found that post and reached out. That person turned out to be my ideal client—and now, they book with me regularly. That would have never happened if I wasn’t in BNI. …..
“I’ve been a proud BNI member for almost eight years, and one of the most powerful referrals I’ve received came in a way I didn’t expect. A fellow member recommended me on social media, and nearly two years later, someone found that post and reached out. That person turned out to be my ideal client—and now, they book with me regularly. That would have never happened if I wasn’t in BNI.
What I didn’t expect when I joined was also the personal growth that would come with it. As both a member and a local business owner, I’ve found mentors who believe in me, peers who trust me, and a network I now consider extended family. I can rely on them not just for business advice, but in life too.
The relationships I’ve built through BNI are lifelong—and honestly, I can’t imagine what my life or my business would look like without it.
Because of that support, I now have the accolade of being a multi award-winning business owner—something I never thought possible. I would never have had those opportunities without the mentoring, encouragement, and belief that others in BNI have had in me.
Being a member in SE London region isn’t about just where your business grows, its where you grow too!”
Louise Black
Your Property Matchmaker powered by Keller Williams
“I joined BNI the very same week I started my business. Someone I trusted told me, “If you do just one thing, join BNI.” So, I did. I had no idea what I was walking into, but I’d heard their success story and took a leap of faith.
I run my own estate agency, powered by Keller Williams and I do things differently. No cookie-cutter marketing, no fixed office hours. I offer a truly tailored and honest service, and I wanted to …..
“I joined BNI the very same week I started my business. Someone I trusted told me, “If you do just one thing, join BNI.” So, I did. I had no idea what I was walking into, but I’d heard their success story and took a leap of faith.
I run my own estate agency, powered by Keller Williams and I do things differently. No cookie-cutter marketing, no fixed office hours. I offer a truly tailored and honest service, and I wanted to surround myself with professionals who shared my values and who could support both me and my clients. That’s exactly what I found.
I’ve now been a member for almost five years, currently with BNI Stardust, and I can honestly say it’s been life changing (however cheesy that may be). I’ve grown in confidence, especially with public speaking, and the accountability keeps me focused even when business gets hectic. Half of my leads come from BNI, but the real win has been the relationships.
One standout moment was when things weren’t going well for me personally. Business was still ticking over, but life outside of it felt like it was falling apart. My BNI team noticed. They stepped in. They checked in on me, made sure I didn’t drop the ball, helped me stay on track. They supported me in ways some of my own friends didn’t, and I’ll never forget that. That experience led me to work with an accountability partner too, and it’s helped me take my focus to the next level. BNI is more than just business, and it’s so hard to explain that!
To anyone thinking about joining BNI, I’d say: visit a few chapters as each one has its own energy. But when you find the right one, it’s like finding your business family. I’d feel lost without mine.”
Hayley John-Charles (Multi Award Winning)
Not Just Travel
“I’ve been a proud BNI member for almost eight years, and one of the most powerful referrals I’ve received came in a way I didn’t expect. A fellow member recommended me on social media, and nearly two years later, someone found that post and reached out. ……
“I’ve been a proud BNI member for almost eight years, and one of the most powerful referrals I’ve received came in a way I didn’t expect. A fellow member recommended me on social media, and nearly two years later, someone found that post and reached out. That person turned out to be my ideal client—and now, they book with me regularly. That would have never happened if I wasn’t in BNI.
What I didn’t expect when I joined was also the personal growth that would come with it. As both a member and a local business owner, I’ve found mentors who believe in me, peers who trust me, and a network I now consider extended family. I can rely on them not just for business advice, but in life too.
The relationships I’ve built through BNI are lifelong—and honestly, I can’t imagine what my life or my business would look like without it.
Because of that support, I now have the accolade of being a multi award-winning business owner—something I never thought possible. I would never have had those opportunities without the mentoring, encouragement, and belief that others in BNI have had in me.
Being a member in SE London region isn’t about just where your business grows, its where you grow too!”
Louise Black
Your Property Matchmaker powered by Keller Williams
“I joined BNI the very same week I started my business. Someone I trusted told me, “If you do just one thing, join BNI.” So, I did. I had no idea what I was walking into, but I’d heard their success story and took a leap of faith. …..
“I joined BNI the very same week I started my business. Someone I trusted told me, “If you do just one thing, join BNI.” So, I did. I had no idea what I was walking into, but I’d heard their success story and took a leap of faith.
I run my own estate agency, powered by Keller Williams and I do things differently. No cookie-cutter marketing, no fixed office hours. I offer a truly tailored and honest service, and I wanted to surround myself with professionals who shared my values and who could support both me and my clients. That’s exactly what I found.
I’ve now been a member for almost five years, currently with BNI Stardust, and I can honestly say it’s been life changing (however cheesy that may be). I’ve grown in confidence, especially with public speaking, and the accountability keeps me focused even when business gets hectic. Half of my leads come from BNI, but the real win has been the relationships.
One standout moment was when things weren’t going well for me personally. Business was still ticking over, but life outside of it felt like it was falling apart. My BNI team noticed. They stepped in. They checked in on me, made sure I didn’t drop the ball, helped me stay on track. They supported me in ways some of my own friends didn’t, and I’ll never forget that. That experience led me to work with an accountability partner too, and it’s helped me take my focus to the next level. BNI is more than just business, and it’s so hard to explain that!
To anyone thinking about joining BNI, I’d say: visit a few chapters as each one has its own energy. But when you find the right one, it’s like finding your business family. I’d feel lost without mine.”
Sometimes One Visit Changes Everything
Lisa X
“Through my volunteering and charity work, I was fortunate to meet some incredible members of our local community who invited me to something called BNI—a place where I could share my ideas, gain support, and start turning my dreams into reality. ……
“Through my volunteering and charity work, I was fortunate to meet some incredible members of our local community who invited me to something called BNI—a place where I could share my ideas, gain support, and start turning my dreams into reality.
That one invitation changed everything.
Today, I’m a proud eight-year member, and the opportunities that have come my way since joining have been nothing short of life-changing. One of those opportunities gave my husband and I the courage to start our very first business—and we grabbed it with both hands.
- Our first business has been thriving for seven amazing years.
- Our second has been going strong for three.
- And today, we’re thrilled to be building our third.
Along the way, I’ve learned one of life’s greatest lessons: the importance of leaning into people you trust. My BNI family has been a pillar of strength through every step—these are not just colleagues, but like-minded, generous people who truly want the best for me. They challenge me, inspire me, and push me to become a better version of myself every single day.
I often think back to that first visitors’ day and smile. I wish I’d been invited sooner—maybe I’d have an even longer line of businesses by now and could have made an even bigger impact in my local community.
But what matters most is that I’m here now—growing, giving back, and making a difference today.
And that’s exactly what BNI is all about.”
David Frederick
“I am now the proud BNI member who was never going to join BNI.
I got an invitation in June 2019 but was too busy and adamant I was not going to join BNI. However, I agreed to a visit in July 2019. ……
“I am now the proud BNI member who was never going to join BNI.
I got an invitation in June 2019 but was too busy and adamant I was not going to join BNI. However, I agreed to a visit in July 2019.
I am still not sure what happened but by the end of the meeting, I found myself joining. Since that flash of lightening moment, I have been on an amazing journey, wearing different hats and assembled a new collection of trusted any purpose, all weather associates, partners and friends.
I can recall two contrasting noteworthy magical moments within BNI. Firstly, a former BNI chapter member passed me my most lucrative referral; and he asked me to be a NED on his company. That was never in the script when I was invited to a BNI meeting.
Secondly, earlier in the year when I was suffering family deaths like a new fashion plus my short term stay at my local HM Health Spa (hospital); it was my BNI family who were converting my home into a nursery of flowers plus all their amazing support and memorable video message!
I just keep thinking what next on this journey? However, my advice to anyone who receives an invitation to a BNI meeting, just ask yourself, what is the best that can happen? Then accept the invite because that invitation may just open a door of new opportunities.”
Lisa X
“Through my volunteering and charity work, I was fortunate to meet some incredible members of our local community who invited me to something called BNI—a place where I could share my ideas, gain support, and start turning my dreams into reality.
That one invitation changed everything.
Today, I’m a proud eight-year member, and the opportunities that have come my way since joining …..
“Through my volunteering and charity work, I was fortunate to meet some incredible members of our local community who invited me to something called BNI—a place where I could share my ideas, gain support, and start turning my dreams into reality.
That one invitation changed everything.
Today, I’m a proud eight-year member, and the opportunities that have come my way since joining have been nothing short of life-changing. One of those opportunities gave my husband and I the courage to start our very first business—and we grabbed it with both hands.
Our first business has been thriving for seven amazing years.
Our second has been going strong for three.
And today, we’re thrilled to be building our third.
Along the way, I’ve learned one of life’s greatest lessons: the importance of leaning into people you trust. My BNI family has been a pillar of strength through every step—these are not just colleagues, but like-minded, generous people who truly want the best for me. They challenge me, inspire me, and push me to become a better version of myself every single day.
I often think back to that first visitors’ day and smile. I wish I’d been invited sooner—maybe I’d have an even longer line of businesses by now and could have made an even bigger impact in my local community.
But what matters most is that I’m here now—growing, giving back, and making a difference today.
And that’s exactly what BNI is all about.”
David Frederick
“I am now the proud BNI member who was never going to join BNI.
I got an invitation in June 2019 but was too busy and adamant I was not going to join BNI. However, I agreed to a visit in July 2019.
I am still not sure what happened but by the end of the meeting, I found myself joining. Since that flash of lightening moment, I have been on an amazing journey, wearing different hats and assembled a ……
“I am now the proud BNI member who was never going to join BNI.
I got an invitation in June 2019 but was too busy and adamant I was not going to join BNI. However, I agreed to a visit in July 2019.
I am still not sure what happened but by the end of the meeting, I found myself joining. Since that flash of lightening moment, I have been on an amazing journey, wearing different hats and assembled a new collection of trusted any purpose, all weather associates, partners and friends.
I can recall two contrasting noteworthy magical moments within BNI. Firstly, a former BNI chapter member passed me my most lucrative referral; and he asked me to be a NED on his company. That was never in the script when I was invited to a BNI meeting.
Secondly, earlier in the year when I was suffering family deaths like a new fashion plus my short term stay at my local HM Health Spa (hospital); it was my BNI family who were converting my home into a nursery of flowers plus all their amazing support and memorable video message!
I just keep thinking what next on this journey? However, my advice to anyone who receives an invitation to a BNI meeting, just ask yourself, what is the best that can happen? Then accept the invite because that invitation may just open a door of new opportunities.”
Growth Beyond The Weekly Meeting
Martine
“I joined BNI 8 years ago and had no idea what a big part of my life it would become!
Like everyone I joined to grow my business – but it became so much more than that. ……..
“I joined BNI 8 years ago and had no idea what a big part of my life it would become!
Like everyone I joined to grow my business – but it became so much more than that. I realised quite soon that I wanted to become involved to help my chapter and took Visitor Host/ MC roles and top table roles (2 years running). Strangely I feel BNI came into its own during COVID – even though we were confined to Zoom meetings we still managed to retain the positivity in the chapter – culminating in our Top Table putting together goodie bags for each member and spending a day personally delivering to each member. The goodwill that came from that was immense and made me feel so proud. My next experience was being asked to help with launching a new group in West Wickham with the wonderful Hannah Gray – how could I refuse?
The group now known as Dynamic launched and I was honoured to be asked to become their support DC. This has been the highlight of being in BNI for me. Watching this group grow not just in numbers but confidence, personality, and pride has made me so proud.
So being a support DC and part of the Regional Team has also been an extra side to BNI that I wasn’t expecting! It is like being part of another chapter where I know that everyone in the team would have each other’s back, and I would totally trust every one of them. I feel it is a privilege to be in the team, and I am looking forward to what lies ahead.”
Helen
“A few years ago, I never imagined myself joining BNI, it just wasn’t something I thought I needed at the time. But 3 years ago, I decided to take the leap, and it’s honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my business and personal growth. ……
“A few years ago, I never imagined myself joining BNI, it just wasn’t something I thought I needed at the time. But 3 years ago, I decided to take the leap, and it’s honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my business and personal growth.
Since joining, I’ve been on Top Table and more recently become a Launch DC, which has been an amazing journey, not only giving my business greater visibility but also allowing me to connect with even more local business owners. Being part of BNI has opened up incredible opportunities and surrounded me with a supportive network of professionals who genuinely want to see each other succeed.
I’ve always loved helping others, but now I get to do it on an even bigger scale supporting fellow members, sharing experiences, and watching businesses skyrocket in such a short space of time. It’s truly inspiring to be part of a community that’s all about collaboration, growth, and success.”
Martine
“I joined BNI 8 years ago and had no idea what a big part of my life it would become!
Like everyone I joined to grow my business – but it became so much more than that. I realised quite soon that I wanted to become involved to help my chapter and took Visitor Host/ MC roles and top table roles (2 years running). Strangely I feel BNI came into its own during COVID – even though we were confined to Zoom meetings we still managed……
“I joined BNI 8 years ago and had no idea what a big part of my life it would become!
Like everyone I joined to grow my business – but it became so much more than that. I realised quite soon that I wanted to become involved to help my chapter and took Visitor Host/ MC roles and top table roles (2 years running). Strangely I feel BNI came into its own during COVID – even though we were confined to Zoom meetings we still managed to retain the positivity in the chapter – culminating in our Top Table putting together goodie bags for each member and spending a day personally delivering to each member. The goodwill that came from that was immense and made me feel so proud. My next experience was being asked to help with launching a new group in West Wickham with the wonderful Hannah Gray – how could I refuse?
The group now known as Dynamic launched and I was honoured to be asked to become their support DC. This has been the highlight of being in BNI for me. Watching this group grow not just in numbers but confidence, personality, and pride has made me so proud.
So being a support DC and part of the Regional Team has also been an extra side to BNI that I wasn’t expecting! It is like being part of another chapter where I know that everyone in the team would have each other’s back, and I would totally trust every one of them. I feel it is a privilege to be in the team, and I am looking forward to what lies ahead.”
Helen
“A few years ago, I never imagined myself joining BNI, it just wasn’t something I thought I needed at the time. But 3 years ago, I decided to take the leap, and it’s honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my business and personal growth.
Since joining, I’ve been on Top Table and more recently become a Launch DC, which has been an amazing journey, not only giving my business gre….
“A few years ago, I never imagined myself joining BNI, it just wasn’t something I thought I needed at the time. But 3 years ago, I decided to take the leap, and it’s honestly been one of the best decisions I’ve made for both my business and personal growth.
Since joining, I’ve been on Top Table and more recently become a Launch DC, which has been an amazing journey, not only giving my business greater visibility but also allowing me to connect with even more local business owners. Being part of BNI has opened up incredible opportunities and surrounded me with a supportive network of professionals who genuinely want to see each other succeed.
I’ve always loved helping others, but now I get to do it on an even bigger scale supporting fellow members, sharing experiences, and watching businesses skyrocket in such a short space of time. It’s truly inspiring to be part of a community that’s all about collaboration, growth, and success.”
Greg Davies – Polaine
Executive Director- BNI London South East Limited
I first attended a BNI meeting over 20 years ago after moving my signage business from Kent to Sussex. Although I kept my national clients, I lost almost all of my local business. People simply weren’t going to travel 90 minutes to get their van sign-written or buy signage, so I needed to rebuild my local client base. ……
I first attended a BNI meeting over 20 years ago after moving my signage business from Kent to Sussex. Although I kept my national clients, I lost almost all of my local business. People simply weren’t going to travel 90 minutes to get their van sign-written or buy signage, so I needed to rebuild my local client base.
Like many business owners, I tried traditional advertising first. I spent more on advertising than a BNI membership costs today, yet my return was less than 25% of what I’d invested. Then a local businessman invited me to a BNI meeting.
Walking into that room was a game changer. I saw local business owners working together, passing genuine referrals—not just leads, but real business opportunities. As a business owner in my twenties, it completely changed how I approached growth. Not only did I replace the local business I’d lost, but I also gained valuable business skills and an incredible support network. Whenever I faced a challenge, there was always someone I could turn to for advice over a Thursday morning coffee. My business went from strength to strength. I invested in new equipment, employed more staff and improved my systems with the help of trusted professionals in the room.
Whatever stage your business is at, BNI can help. Whether you need quality referrals, a better way to generate business, or a network of people to help you grow, you’ll find it here. Business can be lonely, but not when you’re part of a BNI chapter.
I enjoyed my BNI journey so much that, in 2014, I became the owner of BNI London South East Bromley & Croydon. Today, I have the privilege of helping local businesses not just survive, but thrive.
I’d love to meet you.
Greg Davies – Polaine
Executive Director- BNI London South East Limited
I first attended a BNI meeting over 20 years ago after moving my signage business from Kent to Sussex. Although I kept my national clients, I lost almost all of my local business. People simply weren’t going to travel 90 minutes to get their van sign-written or buy signage, so I needed to rebuild my local client base. ……
I first attended a BNI meeting over 20 years ago after moving my signage business from Kent to Sussex. Although I kept my national clients, I lost almost all of my local business. People simply weren’t going to travel 90 minutes to get their van sign-written or buy signage, so I needed to rebuild my local client base.
Like many business owners, I tried traditional advertising first. I spent more on advertising than a BNI membership costs today, yet my return was less than 25% of what I’d invested. Then a local businessman invited me to a BNI meeting.
Walking into that room was a game changer. I saw local business owners working together, passing genuine referrals—not just leads, but real business opportunities. As a business owner in my twenties, it completely changed how I approached growth. Not only did I replace the local business I’d lost, but I also gained valuable business skills and an incredible support network. Whenever I faced a challenge, there was always someone I could turn to for advice over a Thursday morning coffee. My business went from strength to strength. I invested in new equipment, employed more staff and improved my systems with the help of trusted professionals in the room.
Whatever stage your business is at, BNI can help. Whether you need quality referrals, a better way to generate business, or a network of people to help you grow, you’ll find it here. Business can be lonely, but not when you’re part of a BNI chapter.
I enjoyed my BNI journey so much that, in 2014, I became the owner of BNI London South East Bromley & Croydon. Today, I have the privilege of helping local businesses not just survive, but thrive.
I’d love to meet you.
Why Members Stay
For many members, BNI becomes much more than a place to pass referrals.
It becomes part of how they grow their business, stay visible, build confidence, and surround themselves with people who genuinely want to see them succeed. That is why so many members stay for years, take on new opportunities within the organisation, and continue recommending BNI to other business owners looking for something more meaningful than one-off networking.
