Event date: 04th March 2020
Nasc, Migrant and Refugee Rights Centre is proud to announce our first event for entrepreneurs from the migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking communities. ‘Start-Up’ is bringing together experts from throughout Cork City to provide the information and supports for people to make that jump. The event will be held on Wednesday 4th March at St Peters on North Main Street between 5.30pm and 7pm.
Three entrepreneurs will speak about their practical experience as refugees and asylum seekers in setting up their own businesses. We’re delighted that Izzeddeen from Izz Café, Parween from Elysees Salon and Olga from Sewing Studio have all agreed to share their knowledge.
The event will feature stands from the Local Enterprise Office, Cork City Citizens Information Service, Cork City Partnership, AIB and Nasc.
Nasc CEO Fiona Finn, “This event is a great opportunity to explore the wealth of talent and skills amongst our migrant communities. We know that many of our service users have set up their businesses or are thinking of doing so but have been put off by stories of red tape or the perception that there isn’t help available. We wanted to showcase both that Cork City is open for business for migrants and that refugees and asylum seekers make a huge contribution to the economic life of the city.”
We’re delighted to be joined in this by John Dennehy, founder and chairperson of Zartis. In 2019, John ran an initiative to invest in a new enterprise from a refugee or asylum seeker. With the support of that initiative, Olga was able to set up her thriving sewing studio business on Patrick’s Hill.
John Dennehy, "There are a lot of migrants in Cork with the potential and skills to build successful businesses. We're looking to talk to them and help them find their way. Migrants creating wealth and employment in our city is good for everybody and should be supported in every way possible."
Fiona Finn, “We’ve been really pleased at the response we’ve received to the event. Everyone we’ve approached to be part of the evening has been incredibly supportive.”
There are also a limited number of consultations available with John, or other successful, established businesspeople in Cork. Anyone who believes they have a promising business idea and would like a 1:1 consultation can email startup@nascireland.org
ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT: Fiona Hurley
Policy and Communications Manager
087 104 3284