Neurodivergent Business Support: Our Story
The Empowered Entrepreneur was founded in March 2024 by Amanda Carstairs. What began as AG Virtual Assist, a provider of virtual assistant services, has since evolved into a dynamic hub dedicated to entrepreneur empowerment through business support, training, networking, and our engaging podcast.
The name AG Virtual Assist was inspired by Amanda’s daughter, Anastasia, who is Autistic and has an eye condition called Nystagmus. Amanda envisioned what it would be like for Anastasia to run her own business one day and recognized the critical need for neurodiversity support. This ensures that entrepreneurs can concentrate on their passions while having the right support in place.
As the business matured, Amanda’s son received a diagnosis of ADHD, exhibiting traits of ASD, and is currently undergoing tests for Dyslexia. These personal experiences have deepened Amanda’s commitment to supporting not only neurotypical entrepreneurs but particularly neurodivergent business owners, who frequently encounter distinctive challenges in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Today, The Empowered Entrepreneur transcends the traditional scope of virtual assistant work. We are focused on creating inclusive spaces, innovative strategies, and robust support systems that empower all entrepreneurs to thrive, regardless of their background or neurotype.
Why We’re Different
We don’t simply provide admin, finance, and social media support; we integrate a deep understanding of neurodiversity into every aspect of our services. Our offerings are tailored to be flexible, accessible, and genuinely empowering, allowing you to run your business with confidence.
At the core of our mission is one powerful belief: Be Empowered. Be Unstoppable.
Meet the Team
Amanda Carstairs
Amanda Carstairs is the founder of The Empowered Entrepreneur, an initiative focused on entrepreneur empowerment. She holds a BA in Business Administration from the University of Abertay and has amassed extensive experience through administrative roles across various industries. This professional background equipped her with the skills and insight necessary to develop virtual assistant services that help entrepreneurs overcome tasks that often impede their focus on growth.
Beyond her business pursuits, Amanda is a proud mum to twins, Anastasia and Nathaniel, and a dog mum to a lively dachshund named Piper. She shares her life with her partner, Scott, who wholeheartedly supports her mission to empower others.
When Amanda isn't managing her business, she enjoys long walks, home baking, spa days, shopping, and travel. Quality time with friends and family is essential to her, and she embraces her playful side as a keen Xbox gamer. A devoted music lover, Amanda appreciates most genres but has a particular fondness for Michael Bublé and a strong love for country music.
Amanda's unique blend of professional expertise, personal passions, and lived experience with neurodiversity support lies at the heart of The Empowered Entrepreneur.
Scott Gillies
Scott Gillies is the Operations Support Assistant at The Empowered Entrepreneur, where he plays a vital role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, essential for supporting entrepreneur empowerment. With a diverse background in office and sales roles, Scott offers a practical, organized, and supportive approach, which is especially beneficial in providing effective neurodiversity support within the team. He holds an HNC in Business Studies from the University of Napier, equipping him with a solid understanding of business processes and administration, crucial for efficient virtual assistant services at the company.
Beyond the office, Scott is a proud stepdad to Anastasia and Nathaniel, and a devoted partner to Amanda, the founder of the business, as well as a dog dad to Piper the dachshund. Growing up on the Isle of Tiree in Scotland fostered his love for the outdoors and life by the sea, particularly enjoying time on a boat.
When he’s not working, Scott enjoys computer gaming, with favorites like World of Warcraft, spending time outdoors, and being surrounded by animals. A keen traveler, his favorite destination is Italy. His calm demeanor, diverse experience, and dependable support make him an invaluable member of The Empowered Entrepreneur.