Hackney entrepreneurs celebrate the green shoots of success

A host of hackney entrepreneurs, who have received a helping hand from Genesis Housing Association to set up their own businesses, have celebrated their fledgling start-ups at a prize evening at Woodberry Down. The event was a chance for them to share their experiences and pass on their top tips for success to local residents.

The event was part of ‘Four steps to starting your own business’, Genesis’ programme to help local residents set up and run a business through advice, training and guidance on everything from how to access finance to launching and making a big splash. Since its start, Genesis’ programme has helped six businesses start trading with four more launching by the end of the year. During the evening the residents received certificates for reaching different stages of development from creating their plan of action to launching their business.

One group of entrepreneurs to be awarded for their hard work was Cre-namic, a security company set up by four Woodberry Down residents. Despite only being created in March, the team behind Cre-Namic have already launched their business and won two large security contracts, including providing security for the Lakeside Shopping Centre. John Campbell, one of the brains behind Cre-namic said about Genesis’ programme: “It’s really come at the right time; it’s a beautiful thing to have aspirations and achieve them.” John also said that interested residents should “come along, listen, and share your thoughts and anything’s possible. Don’t be scared they will listen to your ideas and you will be supported.”

Another Woodberry Down resident to have benefited from Genesis’ support was Deborah Kay and her business Big Guitar Workshop, which provides guitar lessons to the local community. With the help of Genesis, Deborah has won contracts in Hackney and Greenwich and seen a massive uptake of her private lessons. Deborah said of the Genesis programme: “The people have been great, supportive and knowledgeable. Being an entrepreneur is rewarding but hard work. Just do it, say ‘yes I can.’”

Woodberry Down residents who have an idea they have been looking to get off the ground can still get involved and should call 0203 222 7000.

Ruchell Peng, Genesis Regeneration Manager, said of the scheme: Genesis wants to create an environment at Woodberry Down for enterprise. The Four steps programme is a great way for residents to realise their dreams and it’s great for confidence. Genesis’ work in Woodberry Down is not just about the physical regeneration but is also about regenerating the local economy and the Woodberry Down entrepreneurs are an important part of the future.”

Genesis is supported in the Four steps programme by In Biz and Beyond Business.

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For more information contact Ben Ashmore, 0207 563 0298 or ben.ashmore@genesisha.org.uk

Genesis owns or manages homes across London and the south east for thousands of people. As one of the most diverse housing groups in the UK, Genesis’ main aim is to provide great services, great homes, great places and great opportunities for its customers.

In Biz has over 20 years experience helping people realise their goals to start a business.  Their research shows that 78% of the people they work with are still trading successfully after five years.  In London over the past 12 months they have helped 536 people into self employment. 

Beyond the Barn work to help others develop social businesses.  Over the past five years they have successfully developed 33 Social enterprises including award winning ‘Bikeworks’ which was awarded Best New  Social Enterprise 2009 – Social Enterprise Awards and Best Social Enterprise 2010; the first social enterprise to win this award.