The first black female detective inspector of Merseyside Police has launched herself into the world of self-employment after 25 years of service.

Irene Afful from Wirral has years of professional experience and worked on a national platform advancing leadership, equality and diversity.

She also led and designed the “Phoenix Leadership Programme,” an initiative targeting recruitment of under-represented groups within Merseyside Police.

Irene was shortlisted in the Female Role Model category of the National Diversity Awards 2016.

Now she has her own coaching and consultancy business, Ametrine Enterprise Solutions which specialises in equality and diversity.

Irene said: “I have always worked in the public sector and have had to answer to a supervisor or manager.

“I wanted to only answer to myself and choose my own hours so I could spend quality time with my son. I also wanted to prove to myself that I can do this and make it a success.”

Taking the first step towards entrepreneurship, Irene contacted Liverpool City Region’s Enterprise Hub and was linked to The Women’s Organisation.

Irene added: “I found the idea of writing a business plan really daunting.

My business advisor was really supportive, motivating and knowledgeable about the many aspects of starting your own business.

“Her advice and support was invaluable in giving me the confidence to do what I have always wanted to do.”