Discussions on Self-Employment
A project proposed, developed and run by peer community members, funded by the Consumer Initiative Fund
CIF Project Summary
Discussions on Self-Employment
This peer-led initiative creates an accessible, judgment-free space for adults with lived experience of mental health challenges to explore entrepreneurship and self-employment as empowering alternatives to traditional employment.
Recognizing that conventional work models often don’t accommodate the flexibility needed for mental health recovery, this project offers monthly drop-in discussion groups where participants can explore freelancing, small business development, and creative ventures while building confidence, reducing isolation, and connecting with peers on similar journeys.
The discussion groups take place virtually on Zoom. Each session features rotating themes – from pricing and marketing to navigating disability benefits while earning income – and includes peer facilitation, guest speakers, and practical resource sharing.
Throughout project activities we hope participants will:
- Gain confidence and clarity around self-employment pathways
- Reduce isolation by connecting with others who share similar goals and challenges
- Leave with a toolkit of practical insights, peer connections, and inspiration to take next steps
Discussions on Self-Employment is a community project led by Anja Lanz, a peer who has navigated self-employment and successfully built a federally incorporated company with her business partner, Damineh Akhavan, who is also a peer. Together, Anja and Damineh have co-designed the discussion topics and are excited to share their knowledge!
This project plants seeds for long-term personal, creative, and economic growth and reflects the power of peer-led spaces to transform possibility into action. Whether launching a venture, testing an idea, or simply reframing their relationship to work, participants will learn how to turn their vision into reality.
- Open to individuals with lived or living experience of mental health and/or substance use challenges
- Virtual groups held via Zoom
- Participation is free
- Registration is requested
- Drop-ins are also welcomed