Guests at the event heard talks from inspirational women in business who shared their journeys and how Enterprise Enfield has helped them succeed

Despina Johnson, CEO of Enterprise Enfield, cuts the 40th birthday cake

Enterprise Enfield celebrated its 40th anniversary with a special event last week.

On Friday (20th) at Dugdale Arts Centre, more than 100 guests attended a celebration of the business support organisation’s achievements, including entrepreneurs it has supported over the past four decades.

There were also representatives from other organisations which have provided funding for specific business support programmes, such as the RSA Trust, Enfield Council, the Greater London Authority and Local London.

Enterprise Enfield CEO, Despina Johnson spoke about the impact made on entrepreneurs and businesses. She said: “We are so proud to be celebrating this milestone anniversary. Over four decades, our organisation has helped countless people to start, grow and thrive in business.

“Our expert advice, guidance and support services have been instrumental in empowering people across London to unlock their potential, develop their business knowledge and skills to achieve their goals and dreams. In this increasingly digital world, it’s more important than ever for businesses to stay ahead of the game.

“Our various digital advice and support programmes have enabled owners to utilise digital tools and technology and grow their businesses effectively online – boosting sales, turnover and resilience.”

In the last year alone, 915 people have accessed Enterprise Enfield’s services and nearly 4,500 hours of business advice were provided. The organisation has a special focus on female entrepreneurship, with over 62% of its clients being women, and Enterprise Enfield’s bespoke business start-up programmes for women have, over the past 18 years, empowered more than 450 women to be ready to launch their own businesses.

Last week’s celebratory event, which also marked International Women’s Day, celebrated the organisation’s achievements as well as showcasing the success of businesses helped and supported over the years.

Guests at the event heard talks from inspirational women in business who shared their journeys – including their inspirations, challenges and achievements. A range of businesses also showcased their products and services – and guests enjoyed networking with other local owners.

Ela Teague, owner of Enfield-based Indian cookery school, Cook Eat Joy, shared her story at the event as part of a panel discussion. Ela has been celebrated as one of the UK’s “most impressive female entrepreneurs” by f:Entrepreneur as part of their #iAlso100 campaign.

As a former teacher with a passion for cooking, Ela initially sought help from Enterprise Enfield to develop her cookery school idea. She enrolled on the organisation’s flagship ‘Inspiring Women Start Up Programme’ for expert advice, webinars and seminars covering all the essential aspects of business. The course, which is fully funded by local charity, the RSA Trust, empowered Ela with “practical information, business skills and confidence” to successfully launch her business in 2020.

Ela said: “I was really pleased with all the advice and support I was given; it was practical and doable. I felt empowered to move on with areas I had been struggling with and confident that I would be able to continue to make simple changes that would benefit the digital areas of the business.

“I was also given ideas on how to grow the business, whether this was with additional services that were easy to achieve or small changes to working practices such as automation to free up time.”

Enterprise Enfield’s 40th anniversary event also raised funds for the Pink Ribbon Foundation, a charity which supports those affected by breast cancer.

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