Hielen Tekeste, Fairbite

Hielen has Eritrean heritage and was born and raised in Italy. Both cultures influenced her in opening her business, as street grocery markets are very common and plentiful in both cultural cuisines.

Hielen’s goal for setting up her business was to set up a sustainable enterprise that can reach as many people as possible (particularly in locations where fresh produce is not as readily available) and spread the word about the importance of healthy lifestyle choices.

Fairbite covers many parts of Bristol, bringing fresh fruit and vegetables to places like Eastville, Shirehampton, Southmead, Old Market and Broadmead. Hielen is also looking to expand to other areas, and even has long term goals of establishing stores across the city.

Hielen came to North & East Bristol Enterprise Support (NEBES) in 2022, looking for help in creating a roadmap and plan for her business. After talking to a Business Advisor, Hielen attended the Introduction to Enterprise course, which is aimed at teaching aspiring entrepreneurs everything they need to know about starting and succeeding in business.

“The 3-day Introduction to Enterprise Workshop was very useful in getting an idea to assess my business idea, and learn the foundations of marketing and business finance”

Hielen Tekeste also took part in YTKO’s Sustainable Impact Champion accreditation, to help make her businesses more financially and environmentally sustainable. “I had the opportunity to join a very rewarding live experience day at Prior Shop in early October. I think that pulling energies together, round-table discussions and sharing assets could be the key to making businesses that are both financially and environmentally sustainable” said Hielen.

“Bristol has always given me joy and inspiration for work and life in general. Because of its diversity in terms of communities and landscapes, it is never boring”.

North and East Bristol Enterprise Support is fully funded by Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority under Universal Business Support. Running until 31 March 2023, the programme is offering workshops in marketing, finance, branding, business planning and strategy and much more, as well as providing free access to e-learning platforms, 1:1 advisory support and networking groups.

Whether you need help with your business strategy or just want to be part of a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, visit our website to find out more and enrol onto the NEBES programme for free! You can also get in touch with the team to tell us about your business plans, and where you need help: nebes@ytko.com