A city entrepreneur is set to be mentored by the founder of the UK’s most successful independent tea company thanks to the help of social media giant Tik Tok. 

Dr Evanthia Kaimaklioti Samota, founder of Piotis Naturals, creates natural cosmetic products with sustainable ingredients and eco-friendly packaging. 

The company has been chosen as one of three winners of the Enterprise Nation Fund with Tik Tok, which means Evanthia will be mentored by Bird and Blend Tea Co's co-founder Mike Turner - which now has 17 shops nationwide, including one in Back of the Inns in Norwich.

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Evanthia said: "I feel honoured and grateful to have been awarded this life-changing opportunity.  

Norwich Evening News: Dr Evanthia Kaimaklioti Samota, founder of Piotis Naturals Dr Evanthia Kaimaklioti Samota, founder of Piotis Naturals (Image: Piotis Naturals)

“With this award and all the benefits included, I cannot wait to see how it can help propel Piotis Naturals to the next level and continue to improve and excel.  

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“The mentorship from Mike, who operates in a complementary field to my natural cosmetics business, will be a game-changing opportunity.  

“It will allow me to continue improving how I help people achieve healthy and radiant skin and hair."   

The business was founded in Norwich in 2021 by former University of East Anglia student Evanthia, who has a PhD in biological sciences.

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It has been awarded £5,000 as the overall winner of the Trusted category, as well as 12 months of one-to-one mentoring from Mike, plus guidance from a Tik Tok expert. 

Its top-selling products include a calming cream for eczema and dermatitis and an organic sunscreen.

Norwich Evening News: Mike Turner, co-founder of Bird & Blend Tea Co Mike Turner, co-founder of Bird & Blend Tea Co (Image: Bird & Blend Tea Co)

Mike Turner, co-founder of Bird and Blend Tea Co, said: "I see parallels with how we started up Bird & Blend and feel I have a lot to offer by way of experience on both the sustainability and commercial side of the business.   

“I'm looking forward to being part of Evanthia's startup founder journey."