PORCH Potluck Unites Immigrant Entrepreneurs at Communitech

The PORCH Potluck held at Communitech in Kitchener brought together over 85 immigrant entrepreneurs, illustrating the importance of community in navigating the challenges of starting a business in a new country. Attendees enjoyed a diverse spread of homemade dishes, such as Kashke bademjan from Iran, puff puffs from Nigeria, and lentil balls from India, fostering a sense of belonging and shared experience.

Neil Weitzman, co-founder of PORCH, emphasized the organization's mission to provide support, connection, and a break from the entrepreneurial challenges faced by newcomers. According to Weitzman, the key to success goes beyond having a perfect business pitch; it lies in ensuring that entrepreneurs feel comfortable and supported in their new environment.

For many attendees, like Mahdi (Nick) Sabamehr from Iran, the event was a chance to connect and share insights. Sabamehr, who launched a startup focused on parental support for children's emotional health, noted the difficulties newcomers face while trying to integrate into society. He appreciated the positive mentorship experience at Communitech, which has helped him start building a professional network.

Similarly, Purvish Soni, who moved from India, found that joining the Startup Bootcamp at Communitech after leaving his job allowed him to dive fully into his venture, Sensible Vascular, aimed at improving stroke recovery outcomes. He highlighted the community’s support and encouragement during this challenging transition.

Tom Olajide, another newcomer from Nigeria, described how the support network at Communitech has accelerated the development of his company, MissionSync, which focuses on team alignment in organizations. He compared the importance of team alignment to a plane maintaining its course, emphasizing how small deviations can lead to significant failures in achieving goals.

The potluck also served as a platform for entrepreneurs to prepare for the upcoming Startup Bootcamp Founder’s Showcase, where many planned to pitch their businesses. The event included opportunities for attendees to introduce themselves, network, and participate in social bingo, further strengthening the community bonds.

Allison Mitchell, Program Manager for Fierce Founders at Communitech, highlighted the importance of such community gatherings in showcasing the spirit of collaboration. She reiterated that while Communitech has supported entrepreneurs since its inception in 1997, events like the potluck are vital in fostering meaningful connections among peers.

The event symbolized the collective journey of immigrant entrepreneurs as they adapt to life and business in Canada, asserting that shared meals and experiences are crucial for building a supportive network. Ultimately, the PORCH Potluck illustrated the need for community in overcoming the trials of entrepreneurship and emphasized the shared goal of helping one another succeed in their respective ventures.