Bold Beginnings

This collaborative project, led by Gifted Women, Iridescent Ideas CIC’s SHE (Supporting Her Enterprise) project, and Sisters Talk Foundation, is designed to create a pathway to self-employment for women overcoming barriers such as homelessness, substance use, and contact with the criminal justice system. Gifted Women will provide a safe, supportive environment, alongside expert staff offering tailored support and outreach to engage women. SHE Project will deliver business skills and planning workshops, while Sisters Talk will focus on personal development. Together, these organisations will work closely to create opportunities for women to build the skills and confidence to take control of their path toward self-employment and independence.

This project will have a meaningful impact on the lives of women who have faced significant challenges. By offering supportive workshops focused on personal development and business skills and knowledge around self-employment, we aim to support women in Plymouth to rediscover their confidence and build a brighter future. These workshops will be delivered through a trauma-informed lens, ensuring that women feel safe, respected, and empowered to engage at their own pace. Many of the women involved  may otherwise feel unable to access such opportunities due to social stigma, a lack of confidence, or past experiences that have left them feeling excluded. By creating a space where women can rebuild, learn, and grow, we aim to reduce feelings of isolation and open up opportunities for further engagement with SHE and Sisters Talk. Through this project, we hope to create lasting pathways to personal and professional growth, contributing to a more inclusive community where women’s strength and potential are nurtured and celebrated.

The collective formed from a shared commitment to equity and agency for women. Sisters Talk Foundation and Iridescent Ideas (SHE Project) had visited Gifted Women to introduce their services, but we recognised that many of the women needed time and trust-building before engaging with external organisations. Gifted Women will lead outreach, identifying and supporting the women who will benefit most. This includes tailored support, such as pre-meetings to adjust the content to the specific needs of participants. We’ll create a safe, familiar space for women to engage at their own pace. SHE Project will focus on business planning and the journey to self-employment, while Sisters Talk will guide personal development, both aligned with the strengths and needs of the group. The workshops will allow for flexibility, understanding that some women need more support. Gifted Women will manage communication, advertising, and referrals, ensuring safeguarding is addressed with a specialist lens. The collective will work together to build a unified structure, ensuring women feel empowered to take the next steps independently