From side hustles to success – Meet the Brits recognised for redefining flexible work

Meet the Five Brits Recognised for Redefining Flexible Work

As some UK businesses shift back to full-time office work and hybrid models slowly fade, more Brits are rewriting the rules of work, ditching the 9-to-5 for flexibility, freedom, and financial independence by monetising their skills on their own terms.

Annually, Airtasker, the local services marketplace, celebrates individuals who’ve taken control of their work-life balance with the Top Tasker Awards, and 2024’s winners are nothing short of inspiring. These five exceptional Taskers have not only been recognised for their hard work on the platform last year but have also set new standards for flexible working and work-life balance.

Alison Goldsmith, 58 from Essex, turned to the marketplace for flexible work, using her diverse skills to complete various tasks, earning over £6K, and encouraging older individuals and women to leverage their abilities for flexible work opportunities.

Hamid Ali, 26, from Southall, had a dream of starting his own business. With just £80 in 2024, he launched his gardening services and has since grown it into a thriving business, earning £50,000 in just nine months and being able to hire an employee.

Kaz Prakash, 27 from Hitchin, has completed over 200 tasks on the marketplace, earning up to £7K a month, and enjoys the freedom of being his own boss while helping others.

James Smith, 33, from Stanstead, left his tech sales job to use his truck and skills for tasks like rubbish clearance and gardening, later upskilling in carpentry, and now earns around £3K a month.

John Odiaka, 27, from Coventry uses the platform as his full-time job, completing a wide range of tasks like handyman work, gardening, and cleaning, earning up to £2,000 a month.

In an unpredictable economy, Airtasker has become a game-changer for those looking to supplement their income or break free from traditional employment. With a staggering 3,000% increase in Tasker sign-ups and a 928% surge in customer registrations in 2024, it’s clear that more Brits are seizing the opportunity to earn on their own terms.

“Each of our Top Taskers have won over their clients with their craftsmanship, positive attitude and excellent customer service. We can’t wait to see what lies ahead for them all and hope they inspire others to use their skills and have a more flexible lifestyle,” comments Airtasker Founder and CEO, Tim Fung.

“Our annual awards are all about recognising and rewarding Taskers for their skills and it’s amazing to see that more people are using the platform as their main source of income and starting their own businesses.”

Recent data provided by Mortar Research in 2024 shows that approximately three in four hybrid workers felt they were more productive (74%) and more motivated (76%). Additionally, a growing number of businesses are adopting a four-day workweek, with over 200 UK companies already making the shift.

As flexible work continues to gain momentum, it’s clear that people are putting a premium on having the freedom to work how they want, and this shift could continue to see the flex economy grow.