Businesses in Woodstock will soon have access to the Woodstock Business Forum, which will enable them to discuss areas of common concern and interest, and for tackling common challenges as they occur.
The project will be spearheaded by the Woodstock Community Policing Forum (CPF).
Rob Marshall, member of the Woodstock CPF, said the purpose of the business forum is to give businesspeople operating in the area peace of mind. He said joining it will be free of charge.
“Businesses play a crucial role in the success of our community, providing goods, services and employment. We have residents’, ratepayers’ or civic associations to ensure residents have representation in decisions that impact our community. We believe business owners, even if they live outside our precinct, should be represented in the same way.”
Marshall said residents’ and business owners’ working together create a powerful united voice to drive positive change, but also to support one another through knowledge sharing or mentorship.
He said the forum is aimed at any business owner who operates in the Woodstock precinct. “This includes Salt River, Observatory, Woodstock, Walmer Estate and University Estate. No matter how big or small, let’s come together to discuss what is needed to support more employment and a better environment for business to be successful.”
Marshall said the project will be launched soon and businesses are encouraged to join.
“We are right at the start of the launch. There’s a lot still to be figured out along the way, but we are driven to ensure any business feels heard when decisions are made. Businesses can follow us on Facebook or Instagram, and in the near future we will launch a website and mailing list.
“We are also very excited that both of our ward councillors have offered to meet local business owners face to face to introduce themselves and support the forum.”
He said joining the forum will be an easy process.
“It’s important for us that we don’t create any administrative effort or cost to business. It should be easy to find your voice through the forum. As such there is no registration requirement and no cost either.”
Marshall appealed to people to become volunteers.
“So any business owners wishing to give some of their time to supporting this effort can contact us via social media. As with any other community initiative it relies on volunteers.
“We would be happy to have individuals come forward who are vested in businesses being successful. Together we can do great things.”
Yusef Mohamed, Ward 57 councillor, said: “With the incredible growth in economic activity in the area the time has come for such a forum. For every 10 million jobs we dream of creating we need a million new businesses.”
He believes the forum will help businesses learn from one another and support and grow one another.
“We’ll cut red tape, invest in infrastructure and entrepreneurial catalysts so business owners can employ and grow on theirs.”
