A group of women from Syria have developed their own businesses thanks to support from the Tannahill Centre.
The group took part in a six-week programme at the centre in Ferguslie Park that helped them identify business opportunities they hope will be the start of their journey into self-employment.
Working in partnership with James Edmonds, economic development officer with Business Gateway, the women covered a variety of topics including assessing the viability of their business idea; understanding market research; coming up with a name for their business and developing a business plan.
The new business ideas include a variety of food-based start-ups including cakes, fresh and frozen meals, Keto Kitchen, and also party favours, make-up artistry, hair design and lots more.
Bobbie McCabe, from the Tannahill Centre, told Renfrewshire Live: “This is an amazing group of women.
"They are really creative and have so much energy which will make them sure to succeed. It has been a pleasure watching them grow as entrepreneurs.
“None of this would have happened without the input of our valued volunteer, Rahaf Sharif.
“She identified this training opportunity to offer Syrian women their first step towards financial independence.
“By gaining understanding in business and marketing, the training enabled those taking part to turn their hobbies and skills into businesses that could generate an income.”
Volunteer Rahaf Sharif helped set up the group.
She told us: “Language wasn’t a barrier as I am a qualified translator and interpreter. This gave those taking part more confidence.
"James covered each session topic in a way that was easy to understand and also translated all of the training material into Arabic which was really helpful.”
The course, An Introduction to Enterprise, was put together by James from Business Gateway, who said he enjoyed working with the group.
“This is the first time that I have worked with a Syrian group,” he said. “I have delivered this training multiple times across the years and this has been by far the most engaging group.
“It’s clear to see the journey that they have been on when you witness their ideas change as they develop.”
• Anyone interested in registering for future training can contact Bobbie at the Tannahill Centre on 0141 280 8801.
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