JanineNatalie Tharraleos interviews Tasha Grant, initiator of neighbourhood street markets
I am Tasha I’ve been living in Leeds since 2016 where I set up an independent gift shop supporting local makers called Flavour Like Fancy. I also run a series of community centred makers markets across various suburbs of Leeds.
Can you tell us about how you came up with the idea of running local street markets?
The idea stemmed from an impromptu discussion with Neighbourhood and Centres manager Peter Mudge where we discussed how various areas across Leeds could benefit from having a makers market. I was keen to set up and run this due to my background in events and passion for empowering makers.
What does a street market bring to a local area, local traders, independent businesses and local residents?
Street markets are a naturally attractive showcase of underground talent. They create an exciting hub of activity that draws people in whilst bringing something unique and different to the high street.
What kind of things can you expect to find at them?
Street markets or makers markets are a mix of diverse food offerings and handmade crafts and homewares. It’s exciting because of the variety and getting the chance to meet the maker where you can find out more about that product or service, and develop a deeper understanding of what they do.
How long have you been doing them?
I’ve been running markets in Leeds for just over a year. Prior to this I come from a background in events having run live music events, exhibitions and hosted workshops.
Is this the first one happening in East Leeds? What can East Leeds people expect ?
Saturday 29th July will be our first Street Market in the heart of Harehills Lane at the Compton Centre from 11am-3pm. This one is a collaboration with Harehills Action Team who are working to bring more opportunities and events to the area. We aim to showcase the cultural diversity and talent of Harehills, which is part of what makes East Leeds so special. It really is such a cultural melting pot which we hope will be visible through our range of stallholders. The Compton Centre is a great location because of it’s good access, footfall and facilities.
Outside they’ll be a range of delicious globally themed home made foods, hand made products and pre loved items. Inside they’ll be the Chatty Cafe offering hot and cold drinks and the chance to talk with your neighbours and make some simple crafts, all free, Leeds Public Health with some surveys so you can have your say on issues about health, Freedom for Girls with a Make the Switch stall so you can try out eco friendly reusable period products and take home samples for free. You can also bring in and take away school uniform which will has been provided by Zero Waste Leeds and The Compton Centre free of charge.
Tasha (centre) with Harehills Lane Action team Photo by Natalie T
What do you most enjoy about it?
I really love witnessing the joy and opportunity markets presents to people.
It can be so hard to access the right people or ask the right questions to pursue a business idea commercially and I feel street markets help to break down some of those barriers by simplifying the process. I feel they give people the stepping stones to get themselves out there and bring their dreams to life.
If you are interested in discussing how to set up a street market in your area please get in touch
