All Things Beauty with Hala Beauty Glam

Owner of Hala Beauty Glam, Hala Elnour a beauty therapist born in Libya to Sudanese parents who lived in Egypt for four years and since then have moved to Australia. Before living in Canberra with her family and establishing her beauty business, she was based in Sydney with her parents. Her passion had always been … Continue reading All Things Beauty with Hala Beauty Glam

A Taste Of Tehran in Melbourne

Hamed Allahyari was sat amidst piles of construction supplies, paint roller in hand, as he took my call about his newest culinary venture, Kababi. Despite a frenzied schedule preparing Kababi, his new Iranian restaurant, for its April grand opening, Hamed's voice conveyed a grounded sense of pride in how far he has come in a … Continue reading A Taste Of Tehran in Melbourne

Finding Customers – A Guide to Launching and Marketing Your Business

Starting a new business is an exciting journey, with one of the biggest challenges often being attracting those crucial first customers. This guide will walk you through the basics of marketing to help you launch your business and have continued success.  Understand Your Audience Before you dive into strategies and campaigns, take a step back … Continue reading Finding Customers – A Guide to Launching and Marketing Your Business

Two people seated in front of a black computer, lady on the left is wearing a red and black striped jumper. Lady on the right has her right hand over the mouse, she has a black top on.

Social Media for New Businesses: A Starter Guide

In today's digital age, social media is a must-have for businesses of all sizes. It's where connections are made, brands are built, and products are showcased. However, for new business owners, social media can be as overwhelming as it is exciting.  Today, we’re sharing our simple guide to help you and your new business navigate … Continue reading Social Media for New Businesses: A Starter Guide

Sharing the sweet taste of Palestinian traditions

Reem Elyousef, a first-generation Australian, grew up with the vibrant sights, smells, and tastes of her family’s Palestinian culture. Though born in Australia, both of Reem’s parents were raised in refugee camps in Lebanon after her grandparents were forced to flee Palestine in 1948. Their family home was filled with traditions handed down through generations. … Continue reading Sharing the sweet taste of Palestinian traditions

New Year’s Traditions

Happy New Year from Welcome Merchant, we hope 2024 is treating you well so far. When it comes to New Year's, celebrations and resolutions come to mind. Everyone has their way of ringing in the New Year along with their unique traditions. Welcome Merchant had the pleasure of speaking to cook and caterer Verena from … Continue reading New Year’s Traditions

Sharing Knowledge Blog #6 Money, money, money: where & how to find funding sources to start your business

By Rebecca Foreman for Navitas Skilled Futures Australia is a vibrant, multicultural country and has long been a beacon of hope and opportunity for migrants and refugees seeking a better life.  Beyond the initial challenges of relocation, many newcomers aspire to establish their own businesses and contribute to the vibrant Australian economy. However, one of … Continue reading Sharing Knowledge Blog #6 Money, money, money: where & how to find funding sources to start your business

glass of milk near christmas present

Shop refugee-made gifts this Christmas

In Part 1 of our holiday gift guide, we highlighted some great gift ideas for the art lovers, beauty aficionados, nature enthusiasts and little ones in your life. Here in Part 2 of the Christmas gift guide, we’re featuring five more talented merchants who have fled hardship in their home countries to build new lives … Continue reading Shop refugee-made gifts this Christmas

Rohingya traditions endure despite genocide and displacement

Picture above taken from the Australian Rohingyan Women's Development Organisation's (ARWDO) Facebook page Rohingya Traditions Endure Despite Genocide and Displacement The Rohingya people have faced extreme oppression, violence, and displacement over the past few decades including a genocide in 2017 where 10,000 Rohingya were killed.  According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), … Continue reading Rohingya traditions endure despite genocide and displacement

Christmas Gift Ideas

December is here which means Christmas is right around the corner, making it the perfect time to decide on gifts to give your loved ones. Welcome Merchant has gathered a few gift ideas from hardworking and talented merchants. There is something for everyone whether that be a stocking filler or the ultimate gift for that … Continue reading Christmas Gift Ideas