Independence Collective group joins forces to create jobs

George Duncan, back, Paul Ashton, Cameron Stichbury, Nathan Martin, middle, Janie Martin, Neville Pugh, front.

A group of locals struggling to secure full time employment have banded together to create their own company.

After some brainstorming, Neville Pugh, Nathan Martin, Janie Martin, Cameron Stichbury, Tyler Johns and Paul Ashton, formed The Independence Collective.

The goal for the group's members, who have intellectual disabilities, is to become business owners, which in turn will increase their opportunity for financial independence.

The group's first business opportunity is craft beer.

The group approached George Duncan, the owner of Duncan's Brewing Company, in Manchester St, Paraparaumu, who agreed to contract brew for them.

After a blind taste test of a number of beers to decide what type of beer to brew, they decided on a pale ale.

Another meeting with George was held to discuss what The Independence Collective represented and the sort of flavours they wanted in their beer.

George will create the unique beer, called Neville, with the help of the group, before they market and sell it.

The group, which has been getting lots of community support from individuals and groups including the Kapiti Coast Chamber of Commerce, was excited about their venture.

"A lot of my friends have said its a great idea and good luck," Nathan said.

Janie said the venture was exciting as it had been a struggle finding employment.

"About three weeks ago I handed out 20 CVs in one day and I haven't heard a peep."

A PledgeMe fundraising launch for The Independence Collective gets underway at Southward Car Museum tomorrow night from 7pm to 9pm.

Tickets are $20 each and can be bought at the door or online via the group's Facebook page The Independence Collective.

Money raised will help them finance their first batch of beer.

The group is looking at other initiatives, including an online fashion label.