Young entrepreneur bucks the downturn

Zoey Harkness was only 20 years-old when she set up Zolero Relaxation and Beauty Salon, at the height of the credit crunch two years ago.

The salon is situated in the city's Bishop Street, an area of neighbourhood renewal, and the running success it has enjoyed has surprised no one more than Zoey herself.

Despite her initial apprehension, Zoey decided to give the venture her best shot and enrolled in Invest NI's Go for it programme, an initiative which provides advice and support to anyone wishing to set up their own business.

"The support and advice I received from Invest NI helped me to break things down that seemed impossible and incredibly difficult before – the programme removes the veil of mystery that surrounds starting up your own business. Initially I was appointed a business advisor who helped me devise a business plan," said Zoey.

"The programme also provided me with invaluable support and expert advice regarding marketing and finance. The practical tips I received helped me when I was setting up and continues to be of use in the day-to-day running of the business."

Zoey's salon is really starting to take shape. She adores being her own boss and, at the minute, is decorating every day to make it exactly like the place she envisaged from day one. Proving that she has both business savvy and a thought for the environment, Zoey's 'unique selling point' in the salon is the organic gel nail package which, she says, has gone down a treat with customers.

Zoey continues to avail of the advice and support on offer from the programme with the aim of building upon the success of her business.

"The decision to enrol and literally "go for it" was the best decision I have ever made – and yes, it helps that I really love my trade!" she said.

Invest NI helps to develop entrepreneurship in Northern Ireland through a range of initiatives, including its Enterprise Development Programmes, which encourage more people to start a business and help existing businesses to grow.