by Yuliia Kirdoda
Rich in culture and history, with breathtaking scenery and delicious cuisine, Trieste is a beautiful Italian city. In addition, there is an entrepreneurial spirit that makes it an attractive place to start a business. If you are considering opening a business here, you will need to be prepared for a number of challenges, including the Italian bureaucracy and legal system.
However, nothing is impossible and starting a business in Italy can be a rewarding experience with the right advice and a solid plan! This article explores the inspiring stories of women entrepreneurs who have taken bold leaps of faith to start and run successful businesses in Trieste.
Sarah, originally from Rome, is a film and documentary producer. She has run an independent production company since 2006.
Irin came to Italy from Bangladesh in 2005. Since 2012 she has been the owner of a shop specializing in products from Bangladesh, Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Manuela, a true Triestina, has owned and run two shops that specialize in herbs and perfumes for more than 20 years.
How did you come up with the idea of starting your own company?
Sarah: My first job was in the financial industry In Milano and later, I moved to London. But after a few years of working, I began to question myself. Despite having a secure contract and pension, I was not sure that I wanted to grow in this industry. I was 25 at that time and I was thinking about how I could combine what I’d learned with a more creative environment. During this period of contemplation, one of my friends came up with the documentary project and said, “Take a look at this idea”. And it was great! I instantly knew that I wanted to be involved in its production. So, I discussed this opportunity with my friend, who was already a producer, as well as with my father, who was retiring in those years and always had an interest in films and documentaries because my grandfather used to work in the film industry. Moreover, my Triestine family, as my paternal grandmother was from Trieste, used to manage cinemas in the region. After my father read the project, both he and I were captivated by it. Determined to make it happen, we thought about how to proceed, especially since there was already a producer from Bologna on board. Ultimately, we thought that establishing a company was the next step.
Irin: In 2005, my son and I came to Italy as refugees. Initially, we stayed in the southern part of the country and later, we relocated to Trieste, where we have been living for the past 13 years. In 2006, I first tried to open my own handicraft shop in Italy, as I had my own shop in Bangladesh. Unfortunately, things didn’t go well, and I had to put the idea on hold for a while. However, I was always thinking about what I could do next. I have always been a great cook, and when the community suggested a course on opening a restaurant for refugees, I saw it as an opportunity. The only barrier was my limited knowledge of Italian, which wasn’t enough to run a restaurant on my own. After having to quit my job at a pastry shop, I decided to open my food shop because I had already done a food course, and working alone allowed me to be flexible and look after my children. To establish the shop, I needed a loan, which required a well-prepared presentation and an executive business plan. Luckily, I discovered courses offered by a women’s support organization in Trieste (La Casa Internazionale de.lle Donne), which were extremely helpful. I also met wonderful people there, some of whom remain friends today, as the course participants supported each other.
Manuela: I have a degree in biology and have worked in pharmaceutical factories before my transition into herbalism. During this time, I realized the importance of mental and physical health and developed my passion for traditional Italian herbs. To pursue this interest, after 10 years of experience, I enrolled in another program and graduated in Pharmacy, specializing in Herbalism. After that, I opened my first shop selling herbal products. Besides my love of herbs, I also love fragrances, realizing their importance in promoting mental well-being and soothing the soul. Smelling a pleasant fragrance can create positive vibrations within you, bring peace to your mind, and even communicate to others, contributing to your overall well-being. So, I decided to learn about perfumes in Milan. After that, I took the decision to open a new shop in the heart of Trieste. But it wasn’t easy, especially in the first year, because no one knew who we were. Also, the rents in the center are very high. In addition, the clientele in this area is mainly made up of tourists from all over the world, which gives it a new dynamic. There are also many artisan perfumers in the area. But our shop is different in that we have a wonderful blend of two large fields: herbalism and traditional herbs, perfumery and niche perfumes, and our love of high quality.
What suggestions would you give to those who are thinking about opening their own business?
Sarah: At the beginning, it’s important to study an industry in which you plan to establish yourself. Take time to learn about your competitors and define yourself. It is essential to explore as much as possible while also embracing the excitement of trying something new without getting stopped by overthinking. However, it’s true that Italian bureaucracy is incredibly challenging! Having some financial background and plans A and B before starting can help you in case of setbacks. Additionally, seeking associations could be beneficial as they can give you some advice and help with networking. Networking is important! Engaging with peers, observing, and discussing their experiences can help you to navigate your own entrepreneurial journey.
Irin: First of all, you need a small idea and take action on it. Go with the flow, adapting to what people are looking for, and what they need. Make sure you have enough resources to deliver your services to the clients. It is crucial to focus on serving your clients, not just earning money for yourself. Your priority should be providing an excellent service that brings satisfaction to your heart. And eventually, the money will follow!
Manuela: In the first place, it is important to believe in your idea and in your own abilities. Secondly, you have to find the right location, which requires a study of the areas where you want to open the shop. A good location is essential! To attract customers and sell your products, your shop has to be in a good place, so you have to take into account the surrounding shops and accessibility by transport. The third point is to build up a good relationship with the other businesses that you are working with. They may support you by offering courses, merchandise, or promotional assistance.
What are three essential qualities for becoming a successful entrepreneur?
Sarah: You have to be a self-starter since you won’t have a boss who will tell you what to do. You have to be a determined person. And you have to be aware of your weaknesses in a way to find the right partners that help you find balance. I mean, you can’t think that you’re good in every aspect. But by identifying your needs and weaknesses, you can create the right environment that supports your strengths and compensates your limitations.
Irin: When I was thinking about the opening of the restaurant, the first thing on my mind was the menu. I had to decide what kind of cuisine I would like to offer and what kind of equipment I would need to buy for it. For example, if I want to serve paninis, I don’t need a gas oven. So, it’s important to understand what you’re going to be doing and to think strategically. Another important step that will help you avoid spending money unnecessarily is to identify who your target group is. Before you do anything else, think about your concept, your costs, your target customers, and the services you are going to provide. Patience is the key to this whole process, and it’s important that you are honest with yourself.
Manuela: Having self-esteem is crucial, together with courage! It’s important to think ahead and to be strategic about where you want to go. And you have to be in love with your shop, with your business! I don’t think about retiring, because I’m happy doing what I’m doing. When you enjoy what you do, you find satisfaction and happiness in your work.
To learn more about the journeys of our interviewees and explore the businesses they have built, you can check out: official website at https://www.ticofilm.com/ to watch films and documentaries produced by the company, owned by Sarah; Currymix shop at Via di Torre Bianca, 22/B owned by Irin; Medichesse erbe&profumi located in Via Cavana 11/A overseen by Manuela.
