Fundraiser aiming for bright future

THREE of Ballarat’s African and South-Sudanese, female led businesses are banding together for a fundraising event this Saturday that will showcase their work to the community.

Starting at 12pm, the event is being spearheaded by apron upcyclers Mat Tetni alongside cushion retailer A Tuk, and Martha Chol Creative.

Proceeds from the evening will be split between the three businesses, but Mat Tetni co-owner, Mary Top, said the event will be about more than just raising funds.

“We want to let the community know we’re here, and we’re using our talents. We want to contribute, we want to give back to everyone like they gave to us when we arrived here,” she said.

“The money we raise will help all of us to get started and get our businesses going after three years in operation so we can better provide our services to the community.

“People are willing to help, but if you don’t come in and say hey, I’m struggling, they won’t know where to come in and help support.”

The event will comprise popup stores from all three businesses so attendees can peruse their goods, as well as a raffle with a hamper prize of bundled items from the shops, and a slideshow showcasing their achievements.

African donuts will be provided alongside entertainment for kids, and guest speakers will include Ballarat Regional Multicultural Centre’s executive officer Ann Foley, and president of the Ballarat African Association, Dr Michael Akindeju.

With all three businesses working out of the Ballarat Welcome Centre at Barkly Square, Ms Top said the funds raised will go towards maintaining their space there with the goal of eventually establishing their own shops.

Mat Tetni also contributes to several markets across, and the money would also see the store set up some Melbourne events.

Ms Top said the fundraiser will help advance Mat Tetni’s aim of giving back to their community in South Sudan, while allowing the businesses to further their involvement with their Ballarat customers.

“If we have our own shop and are able to provide for our families, that puts us at an advantage to help some of the people back home with clothing, shelter, things like that. That’s the big dream,” she said.

“So, I’m looking forward to opening ourselves up for the community, to have that time as one community with one mind and one experience.

“It’s amazing just to be part of the big things going on Ballarat. This is a beautiful place, and I’m looking forward to being part of it and for people to come into our world and see what we’re doing.”