Seema’s success – From food trailer worker to business owner 

How Hopscotch Women’s Centre’s support helped an aspiring entrepreneur launch her Afghan food stall in Camden 

Situation 

Seema, who worked at a food trailer in Canary Wharf, harboured a strong desire to open her own business locally in Camden. Despite possessing qualifications in Food & Hygiene and Customer Service, her initial attempts to secure a venue in Camden were met with frustration and disappointment. Determined to turn her dream into reality, she sought guidance from Hopscotch,

Support Provided 

Upon meeting with Hopscotch Women’s Centre’s Employment Lead, Seema received assistance in drafting business letters and navigating the application process with Camden Trading. They also collaborated on reaching out to Camden Trading Market and Food Festivals for guidance on opening her food stall. Together, they completed the Expression of Interest for a pre-allocated pitch at Marketplace Camden, detailing stall specifications and food offerings. 

Impact 

Through Hopscotch’s support, Seema was able to realise her ambition of owning her own business and finding job satisfaction closer to home. She appreciated the accessible and collaborative approach taken by the Employment Lead, which ultimately led to the acceptance of her application. Seema’s experience highlights the significant impact that supportive services like Hopscotch can have in empowering individuals to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. “This benefited my ambition of owning my own business and for job satisfaction… this was the best. Hopscotch helping was more powerful. My experience was that I was turned down when I tried things on my own but with Hopscotch they accepted my application. I am so happy! Services like Hopscotch really make a difference.”