Stockland : partners with refugee not for profit on local markets at Wetherill Park

Media release

Stockland has partnered with Thrive Refugee Enterprise to bring local refugee-owned business markets to Stockland Wetherill Park Shopping Centre this Sunday, 23 May.

The markets provide an exclusive opportunity for Thrive clients to showcase and promote their small businesses, help generate new income and customers, and sell their products to a larger audience - at no cost to them.

Naouras Zuhir Albaset, who will have an IT Repairs stall at the markets, said that they were a great chance to connect with the local community and increase brand awareness for his business.

'Thrive has offered me this opportunity and no one has ever given me a chance to show off my business before. These markets allow me to meet more people, hopefully gain sales for my business and a chance for everyone to see my business.'

Those attending can expect complimentary photos from Thrive client and professional photographer, Elham, incredible homemade Persian sweets, a look at authentic Turkish artistry and more information from the passionate owners about their businesses.

Jessica Vuong, Marketing Assistant at Thrive Refugee Enterprise, said that organising these events is particularly important and special to the business.

'We're constantly in awe of refugees' immeasurable courage and strength to overcome hardships in their journey.

'Listening to the clients say how grateful they are to be given opportunities with Thrive makes everything worth it. All refugees need is a chance - and these markets are just a starting point to prove that they are capable of much more.'

The markets will also offer a traditional folk dance from local El Salvadorian troupe Sendas Savaldorienes, running at 10.30am and 12pm.

Michael Iraninejad, Centre Manager at Stockland Wetherill Park, said: 'Our community is culturally diverse and so we're always considering new and exciting ways to best curate our customer experiences to represent and engage everyone.

'These refugee markets not only help support a group of people in our community, but also offer our customers a wider range of purchasing options that complement what we already offer in-centre.'

The markets will run this Sunday, 23 May from 10am until 4pm.

ENDS

Notes to the Editor:

Thrive Refugee Enterprise provides business and financial support for refugees, which can help them start and grow viable new businesses. This is a result of the generous aid from strategic partners, volunteers and private donors.

In the last two years of operations, Thrive has given out over 200 loans to their refugee entrepreneurs and have had over 1000 expressions of interest.