**“Being an employer in my own community means I can be part of the solution”**

Jacqui McCalla; Managing Director at Amity Group

For Jacqui McCalla, the journey into entrepreneurship and community activism wasn’t planned—it was a leap of faith born from necessity. As a qualified teacher working in a pupil referral unit, she was committed to supporting young people. But when her contract unexpectedly ended, she was forced to reassess her path.

A friend had previously asked her to help set up a security company. While she knew little about the security industry, she knew how to build a business. In a bold move, she completed her Level 2 Door Supervisor course, obtained her SIA Licence, and stepped into an entirely new world. Nine years later, she is the Managing Director of Amity Security, a company that has secured major brands, elite sporting events, and high-profile clients. Alongside this, she runs Amity Youth Development, a Community Interest Company dedicated to helping young people access employment and career development opportunities.

Reflecting on that unexpected career shift, Jacqui now sees it as the best thing that could have happened to her. “Losing my job gave me the push I needed to fully commit to something bigger than myself,” she says.

Building a Business That Protects and Empowers

Amity Security has grown into a leading name in manned security services, providing support for major events at Wembley, AFC Wimbledon, Fulham FC, and more. The company’s close protection team has worked with well-known figures, including Stormzy, Tion Wayne, and Ryan Giggs, while also safeguarding brands such as Nike, Delta Airlines, and BoxPark.

Yet, for Jacqui, success isn’t just about high-profile contracts—it’s about impact. Through Amity Youth Development, she has created pathways for young adults to enter the workforce, offering accredited courses, vocational training, and enterprise support. Her mission is clear: to provide real opportunities for young people who might otherwise struggle to access employment.

“Being an employer in my own community means I can be part of the solution,” she explains. Today, her companies employ 110 people, 50 of whom are young adults gaining vital experience and financial stability.

Moments That Redefined Success

Among her many achievements, two moments stand out as defining milestones. The first was providing security for the FA Cup at Wembley in 2021—a surreal experience for a lifelong Chelsea supporter. The second was leading her team at the Queen’s Jubilee, a historic event that resonated deeply with her as a history enthusiast.

“These moments reinforced that I was exactly where I was meant to be,” Jacqui shares. “Who would have thought that a business I started from home would be part of events that shape history?”

The Power of Networks: How DiNN Has Been a Game-Changer

As Jacqui works to transform Amity Youth Development into a community college, Do it Now Now (DiNN) has provided invaluable support. Through its Innovate Now with City Bridge Foundation programme, she has gained access to a knowledgeable network, expert advice, and funding to take her vision forward.

“The Critical Friend sessions were a game-changer,” she says. “Having a safe space for learning and development, along with direct access to industry specialists, has been incredibly beneficial.”

DiNN has also introduced her to new funding opportunities and different forms of social investment, helping her scale her impact in ways she hadn’t imagined possible.

Breaking Barriers in Entrepreneurship

Like many Black entrepreneurs, Jacqui has faced challenges in accessing financial support and breaking into established markets. She has tackled these obstacles with a strategic approach—building a solid infrastructure before scaling, maintaining strong relationships with her bank, and prioritising financial literacy.

Her advice to others starting or growing a business?

Know your numbers—understand the cost of delivering your service or product.
Build a scalable infrastructure before you need it.
Be prepared for a long journey—success takes time.
Maintain good financial relationships.
Prioritise your wellbeing—“You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

A Vision for the Future: Creating More Opportunities

Jacqui’s work is driven by a clear goal: to ensure young people have access to employment, skills, and opportunities to thrive. She believes that representation and leadership matter, and she is committed to ensuring that Black voices are present in decision-making spaces.

As she continues expanding both Amity Security and Amity Youth Development, her impact remains centred on people—those she employs, trains, and empowers.

“Success isn’t just about what we achieve as individuals,” she says. “It’s about how many people we lift up along the way.”

Through her dedication to security, youth empowerment, and community leadership, Jacqui McCalla is proving that with resilience and vision, even unexpected paths can lead to extraordinary impact.