Springing into action

Some people are lucky enough to find their passion early in life.

This was the case for Nikki McAlinden, who turned her love of gymnastics into a full-time career with the support of Invest Northern Ireland's Go for it programme.

After spotting a gap in the market and working hard to gain a series of specialist coaching qualifications, Nikki set up her own business – Mourne Gymnastics Club – in Kilkeel, Co. Down.

Starting out initially at Kilkeel Leisure Centre, Nicola's business has grown steadily, recently extending to Newry's WIN Industrial Estate and with further expansion plans in the pipeline.

"It's something I have always wanted to do," said former PE teacher Nikki. "I love gymnastics and care passionately about the sport. Sharing that with children of all ages, backgrounds and abilities is incredibly fulfilling."

With a staff of 10, Mourne Gymnastics Club aims to encourage children from all ages to be physically fit by providing a structured programme that motivates children towards long term participation in physical activity. She also specialises in delivering programmes for children and adults with learning and physical disabilities and providing opportunities for teenagers and adults to train as coaches.

"It's been a lot of hard work to get this far – setting up a business like this doesn't happen over night," said Nikki, who built up years of experience in the field through posts in Dundalk, London and Newry.

"What makes me different to the other gymnastics clubs in the area is that I now have my own facility which I can make use of anytime I choose," said Nikki.

"I'm not tied to hiring space from others and abiding to the conditions that can come with that. My members say they are delighted by the wide variety of programmes on offer, though most of all, it's the fun we have while we work that brings people back."

To get her venture off the ground, Nikki worked on her business planning and forecasting after signing up for Invest NI's Go for it programme.

"I had a reasonably good knowledge of business before I joined the programme but I still managed to learn valuable insights and better ways of working that will stand the test of time," said Nikki.

"Having the opportunity to talk through our business and identify the challenges facing it with a neutral and experienced team was extremely helpful. It really helped me take a new, fresh look at my business and identify the goals to aim for."

Invest NI's Go for it programme is free and available to anyone starting a full-time or part-time business, and provides essential information on areas such as financial planning, sales and marketing, financial management, legal issues and ICT support.

Looking towards the year ahead, Nikki is keen to ensure her new Newry venue is a great success.

"I want to grow the numbers attending the club, invest in more equipment and widen the programme of activities even further. Start small and grow big – that's my motto."