On the 19th September 2024, the Flourish team gathered our current and previous T2G cohorts for the Time2Grow Marketplace at the Resonance Centre, for transformative day that brought together changemakers, entrepreneurs, and innovators from diverse industries. The atmosphere was electric with inspiration, collaboration, and learning as attendees gathered to share their stories, promote their projects, and engage in meaningful conversations about driving social impact through business.
The event kicked off with an insightful panel discussion featuring a lineup of women changemakers who have been making waves in their respective fields. We heard from;
Tik Pavilion – Co-founder of Happy Me Community; an organisation dedicated to addressing the need for improved antenatal and postnatal services in Bury. She hosts community groups which focus on the liberation and empowerment of women of all backgrounds, ensuring they have the necessary support when navigating pregnancy and post-partum.
June Williams – A certified practitioner in various Mind-Body Complementary therapies and founder of Street Holistics where she integrates holistically with modern medical practices to offer a comprehensive approach to healing and well-being.
Karen Livesey – Founder of No Whispers CIC; which delivers training and awareness in child sexual exploitation, child criminal exploitation and county lines.
Jenni-Anne Smith – Works at Loaves and Fishes Salford, a drop-in centre in the heart of Salford supporting anyone who needs help.
Dee Sheehan – Community Activist
These women, who hailed from industries as diverse as science, wellness, and community services, shared their experiences of building social enterprises that not only generate income but also contribute to positive social change. Their stories resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting both the challenges and triumphs of leading purpose-driven businesses in today’s competitive landscape.
The marketplace was alive with activity as entrepreneurs showcased their products, ranging from handmade goods to eco-friendly products and digital services. It wasn’t just a marketplace in the traditional sense; it was a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the passion these women have poured into their ventures. Each stall told a story—of impact, sustainability, and community.
Workshops were another key highlight of the day, offering attendees practical tools and insights to further develop their enterprises. One workshop focused on business development strategies, guiding entrepreneurs through the process of scaling their businesses, managing growth, and securing funding. Another workshop delved into the ever-important realm of digital marketing, providing hands-on tips for building an online presence, engaging with customers through social media, and utilizing digital tools to drive brand awareness.
The event wasn’t just about business—there was a strong sense of community, connection, and support. The diversity of entrepreneurs in the room—from first-time business owners to seasoned professionals—created a rich environment where everyone could learn from one another. Attendees from different backgrounds and industries found common ground in their shared goal of using business as a force for good, exchanging advice and forging new partnerships.
And last but not least key part of the event was the food—deliciously catered by local social enterprises.
The energy and conversations flowing throughout the day made it clear that this event was more than just a networking opportunity—it was a space for real growth and connection. Entrepreneurs walked away with new ideas, tools to enhance their businesses, and a renewed sense of purpose.
In a world where business can often feel disconnected from community impact, this event was a powerful reminder of how women-led social enterprises are changing the game. It highlighted the importance of supporting one another, sharing resources, and collaborating to ensure that everyone thrives.
As we look ahead, events like these will continue to play a crucial role in fostering inclusive economic growth, where women entrepreneurs not only succeed but lead the way in creating businesses that make a lasting difference.
This gathering of changemakers was a testament to the strength, creativity, and resilience of women in social enterprise across Manchester, and it provided a glimpse of the exciting future of this growing sector. We can’t wait to see what these inspiring women achieve next!
