By Mike MacKenzie Halifax’s Iranian community is gearing up for this weekend’s Iranian Business Trade Show. Now in its second year, the annual event blends business with community and features interactive presentations that celebrate Halifax’s proud and diverse culture. According to event organizer Nikki Jafari, it also provides a valuable opportunity for small businesses that don’t necessarily have the resources to attend larger-scale events. “It’s a good chance for business owners to network with each other and promote their products,” says Nikki. “It’s an opportunity that many of the businesses don’t often get.” The free event, which is open to members of the public, is also being held in conjunction with the Persian New Year that takes place on Tuesday, March 20. As part of the celebration, attendees can enjoy live music, dancing, and traditional Persian food.But while the trade show is an occasion to celebrate Persian culture, it’s also seen as an important opportunity to further establish the Iranian community in Halifax.Nikki hopes that the event will give profile to the successful enterprises that make up Halifax’s Iranian business community and demonstrate the value that immigrants from all backgrounds bring to our region. In her mind, it’s not just about celebrating culture, but also creating long-term stability for immigrant families who want to make a home in our city.“We all have a role to play in helping the immigrant community feel welcome,” she says. “We all win if they stay here in Halifax.” Event Details The Second Annual Iranian Business Trade ShowSunday, March 11, 201212 p.m. – 5 p.m.World Trade and Convention Centre1800 Argyle Street, Halifax   Author: Mike MacKenzie Mike is the Communications and Marketing Assistant with Greater Halifax Partnership, currently working as a Bachelor of Public Relations co-op student. A lover of all things communications and strategy related, Mike is often known to spend his free time analyzing the latest-and-greatest PR/advertising campaigns. As a relative newbie to the Halifax scene, he can also be seen strolling the streets of downtown looking for the next cool thing that the city has to offer. ...