Tina McKenzie, founder of one of Ireland's largest recruitment agencies, shares her inspiring journey shaped by her upbringing during 'The Troubles' in Northern Ireland. She discusses the resilience developed from working in her family's taxi business and her transition into recruitment following initial setbacks. Tina highlights the importance of empathy from her time in the probation service and envisions a revitalized Northern Ireland driven by economic transformation, involving initiatives to stimulate trade and create jobs.
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Quick takeaways
Tina McKenzie's upbringing during Northern Ireland's Troubles inspired her entrepreneurial spirit and resilience, driving her to innovate amidst societal challenges.
Her political ambitions stemmed from a desire to bridge community divides, advocating for a united Northern Ireland and a more vibrant economy through strategic initiatives.
Deep dives
Impact of Trauma on Entrepreneurial Spirit
Growing up during the Troubles in Northern Ireland profoundly affected Tina McKenzie, instilling in her a strong entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. The societal challenges and trauma experienced during this tumultuous period cultivated a determination to create and innovate despite the odds. Tina's family operated various small businesses, from a taxi service to a café, which shaped her understanding of hard work and the importance of entrepreneurship in challenging economic conditions. This environment motivated individuals to seek out opportunities and establish their own ventures in the absence of substantial external investment.
Transition into Politics and Community Vision
Tina’s experiences living abroad made her acutely aware of the ongoing segregation in Northern Ireland, driving her to venture into politics with the desire to address these divisions. She founded the now-defunct NI21 party and expressed a vision for a united community free from historical divisions, although this journey faced significant personal challenges, including public criticism and backlash. Despite not winning the election, Tina reflected on this phase as a valuable learning experience that shaped her understanding of both politics and herself. She believes that bridging these divides is crucial for the future of Northern Ireland and its people.
Vision for Economic Transformation
Tina envisions a transformed Northern Ireland, advocating for its designation as a free port to stimulate economic growth and investment. By establishing lower corporation taxes and marketing it as an attractive destination for businesses, she believes Northern Ireland could significantly enhance its economic contributions. Highlighting the advantages of its proximity to the Republic of Ireland, Tina argues that a special economic status could benefit everyone in both regions, fostering better conditions for all communities. The UK government's recent announcement of a Northern Ireland Enhanced Investment Zone aligns with her vision, promising grants and tax incentives to support regional development.
The founder of one of Ireland's largest recruitment agencies, Staffline, shares how her upbringing during one of the most politically tumultuous periods in Northern Ireland's history, known as 'The Troubles', shaped her career path.
From working in her parent's taxi firm, to the probation service to recruitment. And even a foray into politics.
So what does Tina McKenzie MBE envision for the future of the country?
Presenter: Sam Fenwick
Producer: Amber Mehmood
(Image: Tina McKenzie. Credit: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
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