NATWEST REUNION EVENT
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I attended the NatWest reunion event at the Tripod in Brixton. It was an opportunity for those of us that completed the program to catch up and network. Also to meet people that support BAME entrepreneurs and businesses. I was part of a group of entrepreneurs from black, minority and ethnic backgrounds that learnt the basics of starting a business. Over the course of 8 weeks through a mixture of workshops and online learning.
Sharniya Ferdinand, Natwest inclusion coordinator worked hard to put the program and event together, she did a fantastic job. It was encouraging to hear Izzy Obeng and Darren Tenkorbeng share their stories about their entrepreneurial journey. What they have achieved through perseverance and hard work is inspirational and just goes to show what passion for a vision can achieve. I noticed throughout the evening in the conversations I had with fellow entrepreneurs this was a common thread; hard work, passion and commitment to succeed is the fuel that is propelling our dreams.
Two entrepreneurs from the program did a pitch about their business in 60 seconds and they were so good! Admittedly I am still trying to perfect my pitch but I am getting there. I think it fantastic for Natwest bank to recognise the value of BAME business by putting together resources to empower us. I have been to quite a few of the events that include events for women in business and have found them to be really informative.
Finally, it is important to ‘Fall in love with the problem, not the solution’. That was the motto of the NatWest program. In doing this entrepreneur program it has empowered me to think of new ways of engaging with potential customers. For example, how I build products and services to accommodate their needs. Also how I engage with them, what do they prefer? These are important factors in what will help my company to be effective in its reach and growth. I have already actively put in place aspects of what I have learned and I will be implementing the rest as I go along. This has been an important part of my business journey and it will be interesting to see in a year time the progress of my business. No doubt I am in a much better position for being a part of this program.
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