Meet Our Founders
Shaun Pledger
Co-founder of Hashtag Big Smile, Shaun is also the Group Managing Director of the Alloy Fabweld Group, leading a portfolio of businesses across MMC, architectural metalwork and sustainable manufacturing, including Alloy Fabweld, Flexi Group, Hunwick Engineering, Rebel Strength, Albion Design and Proud Homes Rwanda. He is also a Freeman of the City of London, a Blacksmith Liveryman, and a member of Vistage 375.
Driven by a belief in empowering people and supporting communities both locally and globally, Shaun places sustainability and social impact at the heart of every venture he’s involved in. His work spans volunteering, investing and fundraising, ensuring each business contributes meaningfully to those around it.
His passion for giving back led to the creation of Hashtag Big Smile, a mission centred on building sustainable communities through education, sports academies and development. His goal is simple: to help change the world, one smile at a time.
Richard Johnson
Co-founder of Hashtag Big Smile, Richard began his career in Sierra Leone, where he developed a deep connection to community-focused work. Today, his business interests include raw material supply, tool and plant hire, and bespoke travel, alongside a long history of leadership in charitable organisations as a former Chairman and President of Round Table.
Richard’s passion for adventure has taken him around the globe, from mountain treks to joining a winning dance troupe in the Rio Carnival, experiences that have shaped his outlook and commitment to people.
With Hashtag Big Smile, Richard channels this energy into creating meaningful change. His goal is to grow the #BigSmile mission and bring opportunity, support and sustainable development to even more communities.
