In this episode, hear from Elisha Watson, founder of Coralus Venture Nisa, in a conversation with Development Guide MJ Ryan. Nisa was founded by Elisha in 2017, and up until July 2023, Nisa had provided employment to 29 women from refugee and migrant backgrounds. In December 2022, Elisha put Nisa up for sale and in June 2023, they announced they were closing.

"In the final 5 weeks of business, it became really clear that Nisa's loyal customers valued the products that Nisa's staff made in their Wellington workshop.
This response inspired Production Manager Pam Lowe to make a last-ditch effort to save Nisa; the jobs Nisa provides; and to keep making the clothing you love into the future.
Together with other members of the Nisa team, a new plan emerged, and a hugely successful PledgeMe campaign launched. After funding their campaign goal in the first 24 hours, they ended the campaign with double the original goal. This made it possible for Nisa to re-start, re-stock and begin to create new employment opportunities to women from refugee and migrant backgrounds."

They also discuss:

• Elisha's vision behind starting Nisa, which was to create job opportunities for people from refugee and migrant backgrounds.


• How Nisa grew and expanded its product range to include bras, socks, bathing suits, and activewear.


• Elisha's next steps and the pathway to selling the business.


• The community's overwhelming support, which led to allowing the business to continue operating.


• Nisa's new team members, including those from refugee and migrant backgrounds.


• Elisha's advice for entrepreneurs and learnings from her journey.

Connect with Elisha Watson on LinkedIn, and learn more about Nisa on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

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