Showcase Shines on Immigrant Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs from around the world who have come to live and work in Nova Scotia are celebrating their successes today at the second annual Immigrant Entrepreneur Showcase.
The showcase takes place between 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Westin Nova Scotian, 1181 Hollis St., in Halifax.
The Metropolitan Immigrant Settlement Association co-ordinates the event to recognize the significant contribution that immigrants are making to metro's business community. All nine entrepreneurs in the showcase have participated in the settlement association's Immigrant Entrepreneurship Orientation Program.
The program assists immigrants in acquiring information and contacts, which builds confidence necessary to running a new business. It also facilitates networking and helps immigrants cultivate partnerships with other small business owners.
"Today, we will celebrate the accomplishments of immigrants who are successfully doing business in Halifax," said Nabiha Atallah, program manager with the settlement association. "It's a wonderful achievement for the business owners and for us at Metropolitan Immigrant Settlement Association."
"Many immigrants come to Nova Scotia with valuable skills, knowledge and experience as entrepreneurs," said John Odenthal, senior policy analyst, on behalf of Economic Development Minister Gordon Balser. "By investing in this orientation program, we're helping immigrants to use not only these assets, but also their international contacts to contribute to our economy with new businesses and increased exports."
The association is receiving $100,000 over two years through the Canada/Nova Scotia COOPERATION Agreement on Economic Diversification to support the program. The Agreement is managed by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Nova Scotia Economic Development.
"Starting a new business is a difficult prospect for anyone, but particularly so for someone faced with settling and adjusting to a new culture," said Bernie Boudreau, Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister responsible for Nova Scotia on behalf of the George Baker, Secretary of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. "This orientation program allows entrepreneurs to become familiar with the business climate in their adopted country and to pursue their dreams."
This year's showcase exhibitors include a gallery owner from Korea, a manufacturing plant owner from Jordan and an importer of glass art from the former Yugoslavia. After completing the orientation program, Branko Rasidic opened a store in Halifax's Historic Properties that specializes in Bohemian glassware from the Czech Republic.
"The support of the settlement association and the local community has definitely helped me succeed in starting my business," said Mr. Rasidic. "With their help, I've opened my shop, hired one employee and things are looking good for the future."
The Metropolitan Immigrant Settlement Association is a community organization that helps immigrants to participate fully in Canadian life. Its partners in mounting this year's showcase include The Daily News, Design Group Displays, Cellular Concepts, CIBC, Office Interiors Group, Maritime Paper Products, Halcraft Printing, Aurora Photography, Helix Graphic Design and the Westin Nova Scotian.
AUX RÉDACTEURS EN CHEF: Ce communiqué est également disponible en français; appeler 902-424-4492 ou c. élec. [email protected] .
kjd October 28, 1999