A Devon-based entrepreneur is pressing the government for more affordable and secure trading spaces. The plea highlights the challenges faced by small businesses amid increasing business rates.
Natasha Vigille, who runs Djembe Devon, started her venture in Barnstaple in June. Faced with prohibitive costs, she urges the new Labour administration to address these financial burdens to support local businesses.
The Struggles of Small Businesses in Devon
In the heart of Devon, Natasha Vigille has launched an African drumming business, Djembe Devon, which offers workshops and performances. Since the closure of her previous retail store, Black Wall Street London, she has faced numerous obstacles in operating her new business.
One major hurdle is finding affordable and safe community spaces to conduct her classes. Vigille has creatively overcome this by collaborating with local councils and using venues like Barnstaple’s Pannier Market for community events. However, she believes there’s much more that can be done to help local enterprises thrive.
A Call for Government Support
Ms Vigille has made a public appeal to the government, asking for more supportive measures for businesses. She is particularly concerned about the ‘extortionate’ business rates that burden small enterprises.
By advocating for clear access to grants and economical business loans, she emphasizes the need for ‘solid economic packages’ that can safeguard jobs and foster business growth.
The Vision for Djembe Devon
Vigille is passionate about sharing the art of drumming across Devon and beyond. Her future plans include bringing her workshops to schools, prisons, and young offenders’ institutions, aiming to spread the joy of music to varied audiences.
Her commitment to the community is evident in her statement: “Our story began with a love of African rhythms and a desire to create a space for community through drumming.”
Vigille’s determination is also reflected in her entrepreneurial goals. She aspires not only to build a successful business but also to foster a community-centric environment focused on learning and development.
Economic Impact of Local Businesses
Building back local high streets is crucial, according to Vigille. She passionately argues that as businesses like hers grow, they contribute significantly to the tax base, sustaining public infrastructure and services.
The emphasis on rejuvenating the high streets also ties into broader economic recovery efforts, where small businesses play a pivotal role.
Vigille’s ambitions align with these efforts, reflecting her belief that businesses should be at the heart of the community.
Personal Insights and Entrepreneurial Journey
Natasha attributes her personal and professional success to resilience, self-belief, and the willingness to embrace risks. She believes in consistently thinking outside the box to overcome challenges.
Her story is also a testament to innovation and perseverance, which are crucial for the growth and sustainability of small enterprises.
Future Plans and Ambitions
Looking ahead, Vigille strives to expand her reach and influence within the community. Her efforts include initiatives to involve more people in drumming workshops and community events.
She wishes to use her platform to inspire others, spreading her passion for drumming while also emphasizing the importance of community engagement.
Her future goals also encompass creating a sustainable, learning-focused environment that benefits both her business and the community at large.
A Collective Effort for Business Support
Vigille’s call to action is clear: a collective effort between government and local businesses is essential to foster an environment where small enterprises can flourish.
Natasha Vigille’s journey with Djembe Devon underscores the profound impact small businesses can have on their communities. By advocating for governmental support, she not only seeks to ease the burden on local enterprises but also strives to create a more vibrant and sustainable economic landscape.
