The March session highlighted the importance of marketing and communications strategies for entrepreneurs and small business owners. This session forms part of the Al Zubair Small Enterprises Centre’s strategy to diversify its support programs for members and enhance their knowledge through training workshops, lectures, and discussion sessions with specialists, experienced professionals, and entrepreneurs actively engaged in the field of entrepreneurship from both academic and professional backgrounds.
The discussion session featured two speakers: Mohammed Al Farei, Managing Director of Zeina Group, and Wafa Al Jabriya, Co-founder of Mashan Dates and Sweets, one of the Centre’s member businesses that won the Direct Support Program in 2014, which is offered by the Centre to its members. The session was attended by a number of small business owners from both within and outside the Centre, as well as specialists who contributed their opinions, ideas, and questions regarding marketing, communications, and their importance to small and medium-sized enterprises.
The discussion focused on the importance of marketing and communications for small businesses, their objectives and tools, and modern approaches to implementing them at lower cost and with greater impact on business success. It also explored how entrepreneurs can benefit from the communication channels available today, particularly in light of the technological advancements taking place globally. The speakers emphasized the importance of developing a clear marketing and communications strategy to help small businesses achieve their goals.
Commenting on the session, Lina Al Hossni, Head of Communications and Impact at the Al Zubair Small Enterprises Centre, said:
“Since the launch of the discussion session initiative, which is approaching its first anniversary, the Centre has been committed to organizing a discussion session every month aimed at enhancing the knowledge and capabilities of entrepreneurs and small business owners. Each session brings together consultants, experts, specialists, and entrepreneurs. A key topic that reflects the priorities of small and medium-sized business owners is selected for discussion and dialogue. These sessions have received wide recognition, satisfaction, and positive feedback from participants. This particular session focused on the importance of marketing and communications for small businesses.”
She added:
“Today, whenever a new business is launched, communications and marketing are among the most important factors contributing to its success and sustainability. Therefore, the Al Zubair Small Enterprises Centre chose to dedicate the March discussion session to developing marketing and communications strategies for small businesses and exploring best practices for ensuring their success, as well as the key tools, implementation methods, and evaluation mechanisms involved. The guest speakers shared valuable insights and experiences from their professional journeys, while audience contributions played a significant role in the success of the session. The primary objective of the ‘My Experience’ initiative is to create discussion sessions based on collaboration and the exchange of ideas and information around relevant topics, while also showcasing the experiences of entrepreneurs and small business owners themselves. The initiative is designed by entrepreneurs and for entrepreneurs. The Centre seeks to leverage the successes of some of its members and share them with others, allowing them to serve as role models alongside experienced professionals and specialists in the fields discussed.”
It is worth noting that the Tajribati session initiative holds its discussion sessions at the end of each month and selects topics based on the priorities and needs of business owners. These sessions are no longer limited to members of the Al Zubair Small Enterprises Centre; they are open to all entrepreneurs and small business owners. Announcements are made well in advance of each session, which takes place at the end of every month.