Earlier this month we held our first SOUP event in partnership with Manchester Social Economy Alliance (MSEA) at the Hulme based Social Enterprise, The Old Abbey Taphouse. Five incredible women pitched to their peers but only one left with a £200 grant to support their social venture development and increase impact within their community.
Flourish Together is a founding partner and co-administrator of the MSEA, which formed in partnership with MACC, where a group of organisations who have joined together to provide innovative support for voluntary, community and social enterprises across Manchester dedicated to building a better social economy.
Over a drink and a few slices of pizza, our audience listened to pitches from;
Sanam Iqbal – The Art of Joy Project – Provides drop-in group sessions by a qualified therapist for women to build their confidence and rejoin their community after experiencing domestic abuse. Sanam Iqbal (@theartofjoyproject) • Instagram photos and videos
Sumaria Naseem – Open Doors and Safe Spaces – Raises awareness of the need for change by addressing inequalities and ensuring inclusion for those with visual difference. Doctor Sumaira Khalid Naseem (@SumairaKNaseem) / X (twitter.com)
Paula Messa – Pau & Company – Offers technological support (Website development, optimisation, training & consultancy) to organisations and individuals trying to make the world a better place to live. https://pau.company/
Wardeh Nasir – Thriving Together – Facilitates social and networking events by providing venues, catering, equipment and resources to unite the local community. https://www.facebook.com/groups/647619346918151/?ref=share
The audience decided by casting a vote for the initiative they felt was most deserving. It was no easy decision but Yolande Ghola, the founder of Salford Community Upskilling was awarded the grant.
Salford Community Upskilling provides comprehensive training and learning opportunities for families and youth in English language proficiency, ICT skills, mental health awareness, and fostering creativity through arts and culture. From basic computer literacy to advanced programming and digital citizenship, their programs strive to bridge the digital divide and empower individuals to leverage technology for personal and professional growth.
As an immigrant, Yolande understands firsthand the obstacles people face when learning to use technology and is determined to ensure ‘no one is left behind in this digital world’. Yolande intends to use the grant to support business planning and marketing so Salford community Upskilling can help more people over the next few months to come. Salford Community Upskilling CIC | Facebook
It’s fair to say our first SOUP event under the banner of MSEA was a success and provided a great opportunity to network with local VSCEs and social enterprises across greater Manchester. As for the women who didn’t win the grant this time round, they still made invaluable connections with those who attended.
The next SOUP event is open to all and is scheduled for 12th July 2024 at the Sofra Cafe at Dahlia House in Burnage. So, if you’re around come down, show some support for our pitchers and have your say about the social economy in your local area! Book via Eventbrite: Plus, if you’d like to have the opportunity to pitch for cash and support complete the expression of interest form HERE
