Skincare That Gives Back | One of a Kind Skin

Welcome Merchant had the privilege of speaking to the founder of One of a Kind Skin, Rawan. A skincare business that started in 2020, derived from all-natural and sustainably sourced ingredients, with a message to treat yourself with kindness. A one-woman business championing natural Australian ingredients, with proceeds going to much-needed charities. Rawan was born … Continue reading Skincare That Gives Back | One of a Kind Skin

Empowering Women and Strengthening Communities

Empowering Women and Strengthening Communities Cafe Stepping Stone based in Canberra, and founded by Vanessa & Hannah, is more than just a cafe serving delicious vegetarian food and coffee. It is a social enterprise driving the initiative to provide employment and focused training for new migrant and refugee women struggling to find work. Moving to … Continue reading Empowering Women and Strengthening Communities

Better Hair Days with Natu Natural’s

Hassanatu Bah, the founder of Natu Natural’s, was born in Guinea, West Africa. In 2017, she migrated to Australia, reuniting with her mother, who had fled her country due to the instability of civil war. In Australia, she completed high school as well as her HSC while eagerly pursuing her dreams. In 2020, she began … Continue reading Better Hair Days with Natu Natural’s

Mahshid Babzartabi: A Journey of Resilience, Food, and Storytelling

The name Mahshid Babzartabi is synonymous with Iranian cuisine. Through her various culinary ventures, including her first book, she’s already introduced us to the rich history and flavours of Persian cooking. However, Mahshid’s latest release, Stop, Next Chapter, takes an autobiographical turn, inviting her readers into a deeply personal narrative: her own extraordinary journey.  The … Continue reading Mahshid Babzartabi: A Journey of Resilience, Food, and Storytelling

Liew Ceramics Pop-Up Shop

Rue Liew who goes by they/them pronouns is formerly from Malaysia and is still seeking asylum. They currently reside in Melbourne where they tend to their ceramics pop-up shop in Footscray. The pop-up shop, Liew Ceramics, hosts workshops & private events and offers an opportunity to shop for handmade ceramics. They have previously sold their … Continue reading Liew Ceramics Pop-Up Shop

Meaningful Gifts That Give Back This Christmas

The countdown to Christmas is on and if you’re still searching for meaningful gifts, Welcome Merchant has you covered. Our curated gift guides are filled with options that will not only been cherished by your friends and family, but also support refugees and people seeking asylum. With something for everyone, from the avid readers to … Continue reading Meaningful Gifts That Give Back This Christmas

The Perfect Presents for Your Loved Ones

Once again it is that time of the year to start gift shopping for your friends and family. The festive season comes around far too quickly. This is the time to spoil the ones you love and admire with a gift they will cherish. The small businesses featured have a passion for the products and … Continue reading The Perfect Presents for Your Loved Ones

Lida Mangal on Ghan Fashion and The Taliban Regime

Lida Mangal the founder of Ghan Fashion has been supporting women in Afghanistan through her online traditional clothing business. Her clothing pieces help the women, and their families gain some financial means with the Taliban regime taking away their agency and freedom. We spoke to Lida over a year ago discussing the topic of Afghan … Continue reading Lida Mangal on Ghan Fashion and The Taliban Regime

Finding The Confidence To Start Your Own Business In Australia

Starting your own business in a new country is an exciting opportunity, but it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you're just starting out with a brand new idea or looking to grow your existing business, confidence is a key ingredient to success. Fortunately, there are plenty of resources and support systems available to help you … Continue reading Finding The Confidence To Start Your Own Business In Australia

Cooking Classes and Resilience

Aheda Amro is originally from a small village called Halhul, in Palestine. She comes from a large family of five brothers and three sisters. She is a mother to four children and her husband sadly passed away 14 years ago. She came to Australia in 2018 but could not work as a chef due to … Continue reading Cooking Classes and Resilience