MICROENTERPRISE BUILDER: History Blog! The story behind microenterprise builder.

Locked Out and Searching

I never set out to create Microenterprise Builder, but life had other plans. I found myself locked out of the traditional system, and unemployment wasn’t a sustainable option. I tried being charitable. I visited sites where people go when they are locked out of society. I continue to visit those sites today. This created my mission to help others. It also started my project building. The early projects were focused on supporting those on the bottom access resources. Overall, this didn’t quite fulfill my desire for purpose. It was time to think outside the box.

Rustic Beginnings

My first foray into microenterprise was my own with Rustix, a sole trading business for unique handcrafted recycled timber furniture business at Salamanca Market. I learned valuable lessons about entrepreneurship, creativity, and resilience. However, I realized that my true passion lay in empowering others to build their own microenterprises.

Empowering Others

I began exploring ways to help others build microenterprises, starting with people with disabilities at a local ‘men’s shed’. The cognitive factory, was building woodwork products by a group of people with who cognitive impairment. I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of creative expression and entrepreneurship.

Empowering Voices

My journey took a profound turn when I traveled to the Cherbourg Aboriginal community to work with Aboriginal people and explore notions of microenterprising. Immersing myself in their community and learning from their experiences, I gained invaluable insights into the importance of cultural sensitivity and community-driven initiatives. This experience broadened my perspective on microenterprise development, and I began to envision a more inclusive and culturally responsive approach to empowering entrepreneurs. The lessons I learned in Cherbourg continue to shape the foundation of Microenterprise Builder, as I strive to create a platform that honors diverse perspectives and fosters community-led innovation.

Expanding Horizons

This experience led me to develop similar initiatives at a psychosocial centre, focusing on Woodcraft projects. I also helped Priscilla launch Woodcraft Adventures, a small microenterprise that showcased the potential for creative entrepreneurship.

Arts Production and Beyond

My journey took another turn when I delved into Arts production, encompassing gallery displays, film, and podcasting. Handsome Arts, allowed me to experiment with storytelling and creative expression.

My Role

Through these diverse endeavors, I refined my vision for Microenterprise Builder – a platform that would enable others to unlock their potential and build sustainable, fulfilling ventures.