Eleven Western Adelaide residents have turned their dreams of running their own business into a reality, all thanks to an initiative of IntoJobs* (Part of the IntoWork Group) and the City of Charles Sturt.
Exploring Self-Employment Workshop is designed to support local residents into local jobs across South Australia.
The workshop covered various business aspects such as ideation, start-up essentials, digital marketing and business planning.
It also helped participants with their confidence, generated ideas, outlined necessary actions to bring their business idea to life and provided insights into available resources and programs, with three participants joining a 12-month small business coaching agreement with IntoJobs afterwards.
Jodie van Hal was one of the participants who started her business Bowen and Soul after the workshop. Her West Lakes business specialises in Bowen Therapy, a holistic practice which alleviates pain, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being.
After finishing the workshop, Jodie was able to develop her business plan with the assistance of IntoJobs before signing her coaching agreement. She also connected with other business owners through council sponsored Western Business Leaders workshops and Women in the West networking events.
“I found the business workshop to be a fantastic introduction to the world of entrepreneurship. They provided me with the courage I needed to take the leap and establish my own business. I am now actively engaged in business coaching, which is a direct outcome of these workshops in partnership with IntoJobs,” Jodie said.
Jodie’s business has now grown a regular client base since working with IntoJobs.
IntoJobs Business Navigator Rachel Kammerman expressed her gratitude for the City of Charles Sturt’s collaborative efforts and providing venue space, “Our shared mission is to promote economic growth by empowering local communities to create and sustain jobs within their own council areas,” she said.
Business Engagement Advisor at the Charles Sturt Council, Emma Grivell expressed her excitement about initiatives like this happening in the area. “Council is pleased to support our local residents and budding entrepreneurs to grow their entrepreneurial skills and participate in these educational workshops and events, delivered by IntoJobs. We wish Jodie all the best with the growth of her business and will continue to support her on this journey,” she said.
The SEA program is open to eligible individuals interested in starting their own business. It provides resources, support and guidance to help entrepreneurs succeed. Find out more here.
To find out more about Bowen and Soul, go to https://bowenandsoul.com.au/
*IntoJobs’ Self-Employment Assistance program in South Australia is delivered by Mas National.
