The organisers of Naidex South (September 29-30, London ExCeL) the newest event for independent living are delighted to announce that Debbie Moore OBE (pictured) – the founder and chairman of Pineapple Dance Studios – and her daughter, Lara Masters, freelance writer, actress and presenter, will be opening the show.
Event Director Liz Virgo commented: “We are delighted to have Lara and Debbie opening Naidex South. Both are a huge source of inspiration to us all - Lara for ensuring that her disabilities have not got in the way of achieving her dreams, and Debbie for building a successful career whilst raising and supporting her daughter”.
Although many people will know Debbie Moore OBE from the hugely successful Pineapple Dance Studios series on Sky One the Pineapple story began over 30 years ago. Following the closure of the only dance studio in Central London, Debbie Moore OBE founded Pineapple Dance Studios in 1979.
Following this launch, a whole host of achievements followed - Debbie became the first female Chairman to take her company public on the London Stock Exchange when Pineapple became a public company in 1982 and in 1984 she was awarded the Veuve Clicquot 'Businesswoman of the Year Award' in recognition of her achievements as an entrepreneur. In 1989, Debbie published 'When A Woman Means Business' - a book offering business and lifestyle advice based on her own experiences and those of other pioneering female entrepreneurs. In the same year, Debbie and Pineapple were nominated for 'Contemporary Designer of the Year' at the British fashion awards. In July 2000, Debbie launched the 'Pineapple by Debbie Moore' range in Debenhams, which has now been extended to include leisurewear and childrenswear. Debbie was awarded her OBE in the Queen's New Year's Honours List in 2009 for services to business. And, whilst doing this, Debbie was also raising her daughter, Lara, who was diagnosed with a rare spinal disorder aged 10 which meant she has spent much time in a wheelchair.
“Raising a child with a disability is incredibly rewarding. I am very much looking forward to Naidex South and meeting manufacturers of equipment that makes such a difference to people's lives as well as talking to children and their parents/carers to share my experiences in the hopes it can help them”, commented Debbie.
Lara has a successful career as a freelance writer, actress and presenter, and is the co-owner of a burlesque fashion label. She has worked in the media for several years and was the first disabled presenter in mainstream television. She has appeared on programmes such as the BBC's Summer Holiday through to That's Esther on ITV and appeared as a judge on BBC Three Britain's Missing Top Model.
As a writer, she has worked in the film industry, bringing her disability knowledge to the role of script advisor for stars including Gary Oldman and Samuel L. Jackson. She also wrote a fortnightly column for the disability website youreable.com – and it was here that she modelled in, cast, styled and produced a calendar of disabled models. Lara has been an active spokesperson on disability matters both on screen and in print, discussing perceptions of disability and the social and cultural problems faced by disabled people. She has spoken about disability rights in the European Parliament in Brussels, and the House of Lords.
“To be able to come to an event such as Naidex South and see the amazing products and sources of information available is fantastic. Whether it is a wheelchair, communication aid or converted vehicle to have so many different companies under one roof is particularly convenient and is something people living with disabilities in London certainly need”, commented Lara.
About Naidex South
Over 130 exhibitors will be on hand showcasing everything from the latest in independent living aids, mobility equipment, furniture and clothing to communication equipment, paediatric equipment and services and sensory equipment. In addition to the thousands of new products on display, Naidex South will also feature a diverse source of information from leading organisations and charities including Help For Heroes, the Variety Club, Caudwell Children and the National Spinal Injuries Centre at Stoke Mandeville who will be offering advice and guidance to visitors throughout the two days.
To register for free tickets go HERE