To mark International Women’s Day 2026, we’re celebrating Swindon & Wiltshire’s most inspiring women.
Through our website and social media channels, we asked our readers which women in our community inspire them and created a list of 20. The list will be featured in our Spring magazine and every weekday throughout March we are profiling and championing each of these fantastic women online and via our social feeds.
Today we put the spotlight on Raye Leonard.
Tell us about you and your work…
My love for vintage and all things colourful are what inspired me to open my salon. Vintage Victory Rollers was born in 2012 when I realised there was a real need for a more personal, one-to-one salon experience. Alongside that, my love for vintage hairstyling and creative colouring was something I truly wanted to share.
Originally, the business began as a specialist vintage hair styling service, focusing on updos for special occasions such as weddings, vintage events, and rock ’n’ roll shows. In 2016, I decided it was time to expand what I could offer. As a late starter to hairdressing, I took an evening course at an academy in Swindon, allowing me to provide the full hairdressing package alongside my vintage work.
My small boutique salon in Old Town is designed to feel more like being in your living room with a mate than a traditional salon. I want every visit to be relaxed, fun, and unrushed. Working strictly on a one-to-one basis means you have my full attention for the entirety of your appointment.
This environment is perfect for anyone who feels nervous in busy salons, prefers a quieter space, or simply enjoys a more personal experience. You’ll always know it’s just you and me, and occasionally my dog, Reggie, keeping us company.
What are you most proud of?
One of the things that makes me most proud is seeing someone new come into the salon feeling reserved or a little unsure, and then watching them walk out with bright, beautiful hair, standing taller and glowing with confidence. Over time, with each appointment, you can actually see their personality begin to shine through. It’s an incredible transformation to be part of.
Coming to the hairdresser isn’t just about getting your hair done. It’s about relaxing, having the space to offload if you want to, sharing a laugh, and feeling completely comfortable. Knowing that people choose to keep coming back to me is something I’m truly proud of.
I’m also incredibly proud of where this business has taken me. Through pushing myself and taking chances, even when it felt a bit scary. I’ve had the opportunity to work for the BBC, at the International Air Tattoo, and I now hold a regular contract working at Highclere Castle, which is an absolute privilege and a prestigious place to be. All of this has come from that simple mindset of ‘Why not? Let’s just go for it.’
How does it feel to be recognised as one of Swindon & Wiltshire’s Most Inspiring Women?
Being recognised as one of Swindon & Wiltshire’s Most Inspiring Women makes me feel incredibly excited, honoured and so proud. This journey has been built on passion, courage, and the amazing people who have supported me along the way. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who voted for both me and the salon – your support means more than I can ever put into words, and I truly wouldn’t be here without you. VVR prides itself for being a safe place to be and it’s an honour to have someone trust me with their hair.
What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
International Women’s Day represents the courage to back yourself and turn a passion into something real. For me, it’s about having the freedom to be creative, to show up as my true self at work, and to build a business that reflects who I am. From taking risks and starting small, to growing a salon built on trust, creativity and connection, I’m incredibly proud of the journey. It’s a celebration of resilience, self-belief, and the power of women creating their own paths – and lifting others as they do.
This year’s IWD theme asks us to think about how giving benefits everyone. What’s an example from your work or community life where supporting another woman led to something meaningful in return?
One of the most meaningful ways I give back is through teaching. I love holding workshops and sharing my skills, showing other women that they too can create beautiful updos and feel confident in their abilities. Giving my time, patience and encouragement, especially knowing that everyone learns differently, is so important to me. Some women pick it up straight away, while others just need a little extra push and reassurance, and that’s okay. Watching their confidence grow is incredibly rewarding and always gives something back to me in return.
I’ve also taken time to close my salon for a day to visit a local care home, giving the ladies a wash and set and reminding them that beauty has no time limit. Seeing the smiles, the conversations, and the pride they felt was incredibly moving and a powerful reminder that giving, whether through teaching or simple acts of kindness, really does benefit everyone.
What piece of advice would you share with your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self to go for it, even when it feels scary or uncertain. Not everything has to be perfect, and not every step will work out – and that’s okay. If something doesn’t go to plan, you can always dust yourself off and start again. Trust the journey, be kind to yourself, and know that every experience is helping you grow into who you’re meant to be.
This feature is sponsored by Goughs Solicitors. The team at Goughs believe in championing ambition, celebrating achievement and creating opportunities for women to connect, lead and thrive.
