Rarely in Sydney does a business pop-up that is truly unique. Welcome Merchant is one of them.
Founded by Marjorie Tenchavez, Welcome Merchant was initially launched on Instagram to support and celebrate innovative Australian entrepreneurs — who happen to come from refugee, asylum-seeking and migrant backgrounds. The not-for-profit has since expanded its critical role in elevating the voices of refugee and asylum seekers in the community — and offers one-of-a-kind dining experiences in collaboration with refugee chefs.
The next event is presented with Mums 4 Refugees to celebrate Mother's Day on Sunday, May 9. Dishes will be served by Welcome Merchant-affiliated businesses, Racha's Syrian Kitchen and Margarita's Cakes. Racha's Syrian Kitchen is run by Racha and Nidal, two chefs who bonded over their passion for their homeland's cuisine. Margarita's Cakes is headed up by Katherine Honig who hails from Venezuela, and offers detailed cakes, cake toppers and sweets.
All proceeds will go to chefs and Mums 4 Refugees, who provide emergency housing and support to families from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds.
Dulce Munoz from Mums 4 Refugees says, "There are so many fantastic business minds and entrepreneurs among our refugee community in Australia. To inspire prosperity and growth among all communities, it's important we welcome refugees and asylum seekers by supporting their businesses, learning about their cultures, and enabling fair work and pay."
