Indaba Events
Fiona Nieman
After getting laid off earlier this year, Fiona Nieman saw it as the launching pad she'd been waiting for. She founded Indaba Events, a full-service event and meeting planning company where she finally gets to do what she truly loves on her own terms—no more working under other people's demands and schedules.
Read more below.
Fiona Nieman of Indaba Events
What inspired you to start your business?
I’ve always had a vision of being my own boss, but for years, I worked as an employee under other people’s timelines, expectations, and goals. When I was laid off at the beginning of this year, I decided to see it as an opportunity — a launching pad to finally build something of my own. I founded Indaba Events to do what I love most — meeting and event planning — but this time, on my own terms.
What were your biggest fears or doubts before taking the leap — and what gave you the courage to go for it?
Honestly, I didn’t have many fears. I was excited to start a new chapter doing what I love. Of course, there were moments of self-doubt — the natural imposter syndrome that creeps in — but I reminded myself that if you don’t try, you’ll never know. That mindset gave me the courage to go all in.
What’s been your biggest win and biggest challenge in your first year?
My biggest win so far has been sending my first client contract through Dubsado — that was an incredible feeling! The biggest challenge has been accepting that building a business takes time. People often say you’ll be instantly booked out, but the truth is, it takes consistent effort — marketing, networking, and building your personal brand — before you see that momentum.
What does success look like to you, and what type of impact are you hoping to make?
Success, to me, is having the freedom to do what I love while creating seamless, memorable experiences for my clients. I want to build a lifestyle business that allows me to choose the events and clients I work with — those who value quality, connection, and professionalism.
Why do you believe people should bet on themselves and take the leap to start a business doing what they love?
Because the biggest risk is not trying. If you’ve been laid off or find yourself at a crossroads, take that as your sign. Find what you’re passionate about, what you’re good at, and dive in. The “what if” of never trying is far scarier than the possibility of failure.
If chosen for this grant, how would it help you continue building your business?
This grant would help me with business development — attending conferences, marketing, and expanding my client base. In the early stages, those costs add up quickly, so this support would make a real difference in helping Indaba Events grow and thrive.
About Indaba Events
Indaba Events is a full-service event and meeting planning company dedicated to creating seamless, engaging experiences for businesses and organizations — all with a personalized, professional touch.
Stay connected
Website: https://indabaevents.com/
LinkedIn: Fiona Mackay Nieman