 Photo: Margaret McHugh |
Livity provides a number of different workshops and workshop programs, aimed at helping people access more of their creativity and also become aware of how to use that creativity in their daily life - a creative consciousness. I believe that by using our creative consciousness we are better able to navigate our lives, and be happier. Workshops available include "A Livity Pamper, naturally", "Kewpie Doll workshop", "Gemstone Jewellery Workshop" and the 10 week "Creative i workshop".
Livity founder Anna Coleman-Snow talks about her experiences in the Brilliant Idea program and as one of the first ACT Microcredit loan recipients in 2010.
Starting Up a New Business
This has been a dream of mine for a very long time!
I have been making and selling craft for almost 30 years in both Australia and Jamaica. After training as a community worker in 2001 in Canberra, I understood the amazing benefits I had received from doing craftwork all my life: the exercise of designing or creating something physical (knitting, crotchet, sewing, jewellery, collage etc) also opened up new pathways of thinking that had helped me through my very eventful life.
It was then that I realised that I had something I wanted very much to pass on to people - a way of making their lives happier through getting involved (or re-involved) with crafts and accessing their own creativity. So the "Creative i" workshop program was born. Later on I added several single session workshops to Livity's program and hope to continue to add new workshops.
Receiving a Microcredit Loan and Creating a Sustainable Business
My primary aim for the loan was to create Livity's website. The internet is so important today for connecting people, and I need to connect to make my business grow. With a website Livity could reach many more people, and it was also a chance to showcase my own craft and jewellery creations.
The advice, time, ideas and support provided through Brilliant Idea Program was of immense help in refocusing and directing my business plan. The knowledge and information I received was of direct benefit and is responsible for my greater confidence and clarity about my business. I now have the tools I need to continue to grow my business.
Participating in the Brilliant Idea Program
From the beginning, the Brilliant Idea Program was asking me to "think big" and open up to possibilities. This could have been a hard process! But it was done with respect and came from experience and knowledge so I was encouraged. I was also motivated by the support and acceptance that was shown at the very first orientation session. During the application process, I was guided through creating my business plan which made the whole thing much easier. I learned about the do's and don’ts of doing a business website, what is online marketing and how I could use those tools for my business. I also learned to make long term projections, and got the support to make some hard decisions! The peer group sessions held every month are enjoyable and very informative with guest speakers and relevant information. These sessions are an also an opportunity for us to network and grow our business contacts.
Tips for women starting out in business?
Make sure your business idea is something you are absolutely passionate about, because it is the passion that will carry you through all the ups and downs of starting your small business. Also make sure you ring the women who run the Brilliant Idea Program at Lighthouse, as their wonderful support and encouragement will definitely give you a boost. Good Luck! I hope to meet you at a Brilliant Idea event.
 Photo: Jen Leheny |
What next?
I am concentrating on promoting the workshops, and holding more of them!
Contact details
Anna Coleman-Snow
p: 02 6230 0575
m: 0415 304 302
e: anna [at] livity [dot] com [dot] au
w: www.livity.com.au
Posted July 2011
