Mark Hughes

Becoming a parent at just 18, I was told that my dreams would have to wait - or that they might not happen at all. At the time, I believed it. I took a job in a local supermarket and assumed that was the life ahead of me. But watching my son grow, and seeing his belief in me, completely changed my mindset. He became my biggest inspiration and the reason I decided to go after my ambitions.

After completing a Theatre degree and a PGCE, I realised that if the opportunities weren’t coming to me, I could create them myself. Instead of stepping away from the creative industry, I brought it to North Wales. I brought fellow graduates together and launched our very first Murder Mystery event - and from that moment, Black Box Events began to grow.

Today, the business delivers unique, innovative entertainment experiences, including Murder Mysteries and Singing Waiters, while providing paid work for around 30 local performers. Alongside events, I also deliver workshops focused on persuasion, presentation skills, and mindset development - helping others build confidence and believe in their own potential.

The best part of being my own boss is creative freedom. I get to experiment, play, and bring ideas to life - while staying in control of my time, my wellbeing, and the direction of the business.

One of the biggest challenges I’ve overcome is mindset. I once truly believed I couldn’t achieve my dreams - especially as a young parent. By pushing myself, challenging those beliefs, and stepping outside my comfort zone, I’ve proven not only myself wrong, but many others too.

My journey shows that no matter where you start, you can build something meaningful - if you believe in yourself and take that first step.