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A Dream Hatched

"My Adviser guided me through producing my business plan, ensured that I had realistic and thought through goals and strategies. She also enabled me to understand the financial section to a business plan better by teaching me the rudiments to financial forecasts, profit & loss and cash flow documents." Yemisi Mokuolu, Hatch Events

Yemisi Mokuolu of Hatch Events had a dream to stage a festival of African artists' performances. She turned to Chrystelle Benkhelil for help through the Enfield Enterprise Agency to raise the finance for the festival.

Chrystelle helped her prepare a robust, finance ready business plan and provided business mentoring which helped Yemisi to improve her financial management skills.

Consequently, Yemisi was successful in raising the finance she needed to employ an extra person and implement the next phase of her marketing strategy. Yemisi also received a grant from the Arts Council, negotiated sponsorship and support from Puma, Carnaby, Africa 2005, Kato Enterprises, Roots and BBC London.

So the festival was born: the week-long Out of Africa festival took place in the world famous Carnaby Street in London’s West End. Over 30,000 people joined in the festivities and were entertained by some 90 performers, increasing the African and Caribbean footfall in the area by 65%. Out of Africa was a tour de force, fusing and juxtaposing traditional and contemporary African dance and music from South Africa to Egypt.

Hatch Events constantly stimulates audiences by creating innovative and exhilarating African events. They produce events celebrating African culture and connecting those who want to engage with Africa, as part of Africa 2005.

Yemisi has just been nominated the Runner -Up 2006 RSA Trust/EEA Award - Young Entrepreneur of the Year.