Today we mark Global Social Enterprise Day, giving us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate organisations that implement the social enterprise business model to address various social issues. Reflecting on this occasion, our Organisation Development Team Leader, Tariq Mahmood, offered the following sentiment:

“Not everyone has the capacity to achieve things, but with the right idea, true determined grit, some social entrepreneurs are able to break the barrier and make things happen, it’s incredibly satisfying to see an idea come to reality especially knowing that we have played a part.”

In line with this, we asked two of our Falkirk District Social Enterprises – Pause & Breathe CIC, and Glow Impact CIC – to share their journey.

Pause & Breathe CIC is a not-for-profit organisation passionate about making wellbeing more financially accessible. Based in Bonnybridge, they providing wellbeing sessions that are accessible to all, and encourage habits that contribute to improved physical, emotional and mental health by increasing awareness of factors and resources that contribute to wellbeing.

In their words, their journey to support their local community has been as follows:

“When we formed as a CIC in 2020, we had the ambition of making wellbeing more accessible. We’re so pleased to now have two premises, offering a wide range of wellbeing activities at different financial levels, including free sessions, to truly make wellbeing more accessible. We love being a Social Enterprise, part of a thriving third sector – with all of the support that this brings.” Pause & Breathe CIC

Meanwhile, Glow Impact CIC is a youth empowerment organisation founded to provide marketable skills for disadvantaged youths in Scotland. They provide in-demand skills training that will not just productively engage young people but also present them with opportunities for a great life – alongside other services which promote their mental well-being, mentor them and give them access to global opportunities.

They explain their mission as:

“to empower disadvantaged, desolate, and disabled youth across Scotland by providing digital skills training that prepares them for the future of work. We aim to equip these young people with the tools they need to thrive in a modern economy, where technology is central, and career pathways are rapidly evolving. For many of these youths, the choices can seem stark, with limited options – we wanted to provide a meaningful alternative, offering them a chance to develop practical skills that open doors to sustainable employment or entrepreneurship.”

Their experience as a Social Enterprise has been as follows:

“Being a social enterprise in Scotland has been an inspiring and transformative journey. Scotland’s strong sense of community and commitment to social equity have fostered an environment where Glow Impact CIC can thrive. The support from local organisations, networks, and individuals has been invaluable in helping us reach disadvantaged youth who need it most. Working to equip young people with digital skills and alternatives to crime has been deeply fulfilling, and we’re proud to contribute to Scotland’s vision for a more inclusive, empowered society.” Glow Impact CIC

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