When Shadi arrived in the UK from Iran in 2022, she had no family or friends here and only a basic understanding of the English language. Back home, she was an accomplished Fine Arts graduate, educated in Iran and Florence, who owned a gallery for 15 years and taught many students. Now in a new country, she needed a fresh plan.
Shadi enrolled at her local Adult College and completed ESOL Level 1. She registered with Erdington Jobcentre to look for work and was referred to the Restart Scheme, where she began working with her adviser, Shamone, from Ingeus.
Together, they focused on restarting her career in the arts. Shamone referred Shadi to Momentic for specialist self-employment support. With guidance from Momentic, Shadi developed a business plan and secured a startup loan. The Restart Scheme also funded a Social Media course to help her promote her work, while Tim from Momentic supported the practical steps, including HMRC registration and getting the business set up correctly.
Momentum built quickly. Shadi created multiple social media channels and grew an engaged following, in the thousands. Her artwork gained international attention, leading to collaborations with UGallery in the USA and Saatchi Gallery in the UK. She now sells her work through these galleries and online.
Shadi is continuing to grow her business and plans to teach and support others through art in the future.
Shadi said:
“My main problem was the English language, and my confidence was very low. Even though I knew I was good at my work, starting a new business in a new country felt like a massive challenge. I have just started my business, and if I can make my living out of it, it will make me the happiest woman. Without the Restart Scheme and Shamone’s help, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”
Shamone, Shadi’s Job Coach said:
“Supporting Shadi has been a genuinely positive experience. From the beginning, she had a clear idea of what she wanted to achieve and a real passion for her chosen path. Her ambition, cooperation and consistent engagement made the journey smooth and enjoyable. It was a pleasure to work alongside her and see her confidence grow as she moved closer to her goals.”
