A remarkable mother and son team from Hertfordshire have been named as finalists in the 2025 BFA HSBC UK British Franchise Awards, in the Dynamic Duo category.

Jos and Adam Sharp, franchise owners of Rise Life St Albans, are celebrating their recognition by the British Franchise Association (BFA) in a category that celebrates partnerships – those who work together effectively, demonstrating how complementary skills and a shared vision contribute to business success. 

Jos and Adam launched their Rise Life franchise in 2023, bringing inclusive seated sports to care homes, day centres, schools, hospices and hospitals, making a positive difference around St Albans and Hatfield.

Diagnosed with a brain tumour at four years old, Adam endured four major surgeries and two years of chemotherapy. More brain surgery and radiotherapy followed when he was 18. Adam now lives with left-sided hemiplegia and visual impairment. Despite these challenges, he is a proud British Para Table Tennis silver medallist and an award-winning community coach. In March 2025, he was honoured with the ‘Most Inspirational Story’ Award at the Pride of Table Tennis Awards.

As a trustee of the national charity ‘Over the Wall’, Jos helps deliver transformational camps for children living with serious illnesses, camps her son Adam attended as a child. Jos is also Head of the inclusive division at Harpenden Colts FC, championing accessible grassroots football for children with additional needs.

Adam said, “Working with my mum to grow our Rise franchise has been a brilliant experience. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and how we’re helping people enjoy sport in a way that works for them. Being named as finalists by the BFA is a huge achievement and recognition that means so much to us. We are excited for the awards in November!”.

Commenting on the achievement, The BFA’s Chief Executive, Pip Wilkins, commented: “Our huge congratulations to Jos and Adam Sharp and all our finalists this year… Our members and their franchisees are the backbone of the BFA, upholding the ethical values of the association. We thank them for their commitment.”