Introducing award winning fine art alum Anna B. Sexton

Anna B. Sexton

Graduate: BA (Hons) in Fine Art
Year: 1997

Anna has more than 35 years of experience working as a creative freelancer, mentor, business development consultant, and coach. She has helped countless professionals navigate digital and hybrid incubation and acceleration programmes.

Anna has successfully positioned herself as a go-to authority in start-up coaching. Her work highlights practical learning, teamwork, and cultural initiatives. This approach allows people to achieve success in their personal and professional lives.

Prize-winning

In February 2025, Anna won an exciting global ed tech start-up coaching competition with a prize of $100,000. This was awarded by DOHE - a leading global platform dedicated to fostering innovation and mentorship.

Additionally, at the end of 2024, she received the 'Global Mentoring Programme' award. The award recognized Anna's expertise in building resilience, creativity, and leadership in others.

Why LJMU?

Anna chose to study Fine Art at LJMU because she loved Liverpool’s welcoming atmosphere and its people. The city was easy to explore and full of inspiration. 

There was so much change happening, and with plenty of small independent galleries, I gained valuable experience—from showcasing work to co-producing exhibitions.

During her time at LJMU, Anna was supported by several key mentors who shaped her journey. John Byrne, her critical studies tutor, helped her grasp complex ideas. He also guided her through challenges related to dyslexia.

Outside of her studies, local entrepreneurs Julie and Mary Stephenson, owners of the Beluga Bar, inspired her entrepreneurial spirit. While working there, she met curator Felicity Wren and artist Clement McAleer. They encouraged her to explore creative play and community-focused art projects. These influences shaped Anna’s socially engaged practice and her mentorship style today.

Mentoring

Anna’s connection with LJMU has remained strong over the years, evolving through her roles as a mentor, educator, and collaborator. She hosted LJMU representatives while she was Entrepreneur in Residence at London South Bank University. Now, as an enterprise educator and business coach at LJMU’s Start-up Hub, she helps students explore their skills and potential, she helps final-year students work on real-world projects with local companies.

Anna’s passion for mentoring stems from a desire to break down barriers and help others reach their potential. She sees mentorship as an important link. It builds resilience, creativity, and leadership. It provides guidance and opportunities whilst also learning from her mentees. Her recognition in the Global Mentoring Programme highlights her commitment to fostering inclusive pathways for future leaders.

Mentoring success

A standout success for Anna, was her work with a 16-year-old student during lockdown as part of the Girls Network, this is now one of LJMU's named charities. Despite never meeting in person. Anna’s support helped the student manage her responsibilities and secure a spot at her dream university, a testament to the life-changing impact of mentorship.

Each student teaches me something new, which keeps life both exciting and expansive. Seeing those ‘light bulb’ moments is where the magic happens.

Anna takes a custom approach to mentoring, especially for creatives facing unique challenges. She respects individuality, encourages resilience, and uses techniques like “walking mentoring.” She helps her mentees sustain their practice and grow in their careers.

Anna is excited about her "Dream BIG Travel FAR" initiative. This programme helps people create side businesses in the travel industry. It supports personal growth and financial freedom. This project highlights her belief in travel as a transformative learning journey.

Anna’s parting words on Mentorship

"Do it—you are a mentor. Every experience in life can inspire someone else, and your unique journey is your greatest tool. For mentees, be clear about your goals and be ready to work. Respect the time your mentor gives and use it well—write down the gold they share with you."

Connect through Anna's LinkedIn profile.