New Faces Boost Forum
Aug 23rd 2006 By The Journal
A series of exciting business seminars and events are being planned by the Asian Business Forum (ABF) following its first AGM last month.
Four enthusiastic new members have joined the 11-strong committee: Umme Imam of The Angelou Centre, a women's organisation in Newcastle; Rezaul Kazim (known as Raz) from Royal Bank of Scotland; property developer Randhir Puri (also known as Rubi); and solicitor Aman Sehgal of Dickinson Dees.
Vice-chairwoman Hina Joshi, who is a Business Link adviser, says this injection of new blood has brought a new dynamic to the Asian Business Forum. She said: "We're delighted to welcome these new committee members on board and I'm sure they will contribute fresh and new ways of thinking."
Several events are already in the pipeline including a free tax seminar next month with advice from Robson Laidler accountants, particularly in relation to the tax implications of a husband and wife business. This event is open to all and will be held at St James's Park on September 6 from 6.30pm. Contact Hina Joshi to register interest on (0191) 516-6736.
The group is also looking to capitalise on the success of last November's seminar by Deloitte on exit strategies for businesses and succession issues. It hopes to follow up with a series of further talks on issues such as new employment legislation.
A major exhibition-style event is also planned for the New Year and the ABF is inviting key business support organisations such as banks and solicitors to attend. Hina says the events will be invaluable for business people in the region.
In addition to holding its first AGM, the forum also held its first annual dinner in April. More than 300 business people from all faiths, as well as representatives from various professional services, gathered at the Premier Travel Inn, Newcastle, for a night of networking and entertainment from Bollywood dancers as well as a fashion show.
Hina said: "It was a resounding success and from the feedback we received there was also a good deal of business done as a result."
Hina also believes the ABF can help the growing number of Asian businesswomen to network and gain advice and support.
She said: "Traditionally, Asian women found it difficult to work due to culture and language barriers, but this has changed dramatically. The younger generation of Asian women, who were born, raised, and educated here, go to work and run their own businesses. They are a valuable asset to the business community."
Launched in April 2005, the ABF seeks to provide Asian business owners with a wider voice in the North-East business arena.
Today the impact of Asian entrepreneurs can be seen everywhere in the UK economy and especially in the North-East, across a wide range of businesses. The community is among some of the region's largest employers and wealth creators.
The ABF aims to provide a unique regional forum for all Asian business to voice their views on issues that affect their development with local and national Government. It also seeks to identify areas of activity where North-East businesses can be nurtured and grown in partnership with regional agencies and the wider support network.
The forum creates networking opportunities and provides valuable advice on running a business. It also aims to develop wider UK and international links to similar organisations which will lead to information sharing on organisational development, trade and inward investment links.The ABF has attracted support from public and private sector companies such as One NorthEast, Government Office for the North East, the North East Chamber of Commerce, Alliance & Leicester, McKeags, Mincoffs, Sintons, Dickinson Dees and The Journal.
For more information visit the website at www.abfne.co.uk.