who we are

I'm Sam (she / they), and I run Portal Leith with the support of my husband Derek (he/ him). 

I qualified as a mental health nurse last year, but I realised that I couldn't help people in the way I wanted. That's when I  decided to become my own boss, launching Portal Leith online in January 2024. 

Derek and I are both Autistic / ADHD and this is a proudly neurodivergent-owned business. 

Portal Leith is about wellbeing and empowerment. We've  created a warm, welcoming and inclusive space where visitors are encouraged to spend time and feel absolutely safe to be themselves.  

Our name, Portal Leith, is a metaphysical spin on the area's historic name, 'The Port of Leith'.  I come from a long line of Leithers  and my iconic late Granny, Isa was the proudest Leither who ever lived. It's really her we're honouring by naming our business Portal Leith.