In this episode of Greater Manchester’s Greatest Minds, we sit down with Ashley—hospitality powerhouse, cancer survivor (three times over), and unapologetically passionate advocate for service that exceeds expectations.

Ashley shares her journey from pub life in Timperley to Disney Cruise Lines, Hawksmoor, and her journey into entrepreneurship with AFD Events. 

But it’s the grit behind the CV that hits hardest: a stage four cancer diagnosis at 19, a brain tumour at 30, and most recently, an above-elbow amputation in 2023 following a third unrelated cancer diagnosis.

She speaks candidly about resilience, redefining strength, the unexpected community found in hospital wards, and why she’s not just building a business—but reshaping what hospitality means, one detail at a time.

Whether she’s serving burgers on a cruise ship or consulting at Wrexham FC, Ashley’s story is a reminder that empathy, passion, and refusing to accept less than excellence are what truly set you apart.

🔗 Ashley’s Justgiving Page:

 https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ashleysarmy