The Value Exchange – A Unique Networking Opportunity
The Value Exchange was a free-to-attend event for Silver Marketing Association start-up members and spectators in partnership with our member, Brave Starts and took place on Wednesday, January 7th, 2026 in central London.
It was a unique opportunity for start-up members to meet and build relationships with professionals in their 40s, 50s, and 60s—many of whom have had successful careers and are now exploring new directions. These intellectually curious and open-minded individuals are part of the thriving Brave Starts community.
Six Silver Marketing Association start-up members pitched their business to a packed audience of over 60 Brave Starts members, opening the door to potential advice, support, and collaboration. Each pitch was followed by a short q&a session giving further insights to the audience. The pitchers walked away with valuable connections, the exchange of ideas and insights, and with potential new business opportunities. The event was a great success both in terms of the quality of the pitches and networking opportunities in a safe space where both participants and the audience could be honest and give constructive feedback.
We’ll be doing it again later this year – contact enquiries@silvermarketing.org to register your interest as a pitcher or a spectator.
Meet the Pitchers:
Good Life Sorted – Oakley Waters. A start-up that connects older adults with vetted local Helpers, helping them maintain independence at home.
Club Avandra – Debbie Flynn. An exclusive all-female private members club for women who want to travel without compromising on luxury, personal space or time for themselves.
Smart Onion – Catherine Fielden. A secure digital platform that helps organise important life documents, giving peace of mind today and ensuring someone can take over tomorrow.
Mitos Relocation Solutions – Federica Grazi. Fully dedicated to retirement abroad, supporting individuals and couples, and offering integrated services
LivOn – Amanda Forsyth. Pioneering a first-of-its-kind AI-driven platform designed to support retirees in navigating the transition into post-career life.
The Media Remix – Craig French. Offering businesses a 1:1 approach to support objectives with a media buying extension to their marketing.
Testimonials
I just wanted to say thank you so much for the opportunity to present, and for co-hosting such a thoughtful and valuable event with Brave Starts. So many networking events end up feeling transactional (especially in the startup world), but yesterday was a real exception. I walked away with genuinely meaningful conversations and connections, which is very rare and hugely appreciated. Thanks again for creating such a wonderful networking community! Amanda Forsyth, Co-Founder and CEO, Liv-On
Thank you so much for planning this event. I’ve personally found it really interesting and useful. Made some connections that may evolve into something, and it was also really nice to hear more about the other founders! Federica Grazi, Founder, Mitos Relocation Solutions
It was great to meet everyone and learn about the fantastic businesses which I am sure will all be successful! It was also such a pleasure to be in a busy, buzzing room, full of energy and great characters for interesting discussions and new ideas. Craig French, Founder, The Media Remix
Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to pitch. The Value Exchange was an excellent event – I am genuinely excited about some of the connections we have made. Catherine Fielden, Co-Founder, Smart Onion
Thank you for inviting us to take part in the event. It was very enjoyable and there were so many really interesting and potentially helpful people in the room. Oakley Waters, CEO, Good Life Sorted
It was a brilliant experience and I’ve already shared some of the valuable feedback with investors! Debbie Flynn, Founder, Club Avandra
