Discover how Dodji Ousmane's Souk Marketplace in Hamilton's Jackson Square Mall is creating a vibrant, multicultural space for immigrant entrepreneurs to thrive and share their unique products with the community.
Feb 27, 2025
Home News & Resources A market for creativity and diversity: Chat with Souk Marketplace’s Dodji Ousmane
Discover how Dodji Ousmane's Souk Marketplace in Hamilton's Jackson Square Mall is creating a vibrant, multicultural space for immigrant entrepreneurs to thrive and share their unique products with the community.
Feb 27, 2025
Souk Marketplace is a multicultural, multi-vendor store in Jackson Square Mall in Hamilton. In Africa and the Middle East, the name ‘Souk’ means marketplace or bazaar, reflecting the vibrant, community-oriented space that founder Dodji Ousmane aims to create. The marketplace allows vendors to rent space or shelves to showcase and sell unique, rare international products, including organic cosmetics, cultural clothing, perfumes, jewelry, handmade accessories, and household items from various cultures.
More than just a store, Souk Marketplace is a social enterprise under Innovision Hub, established to support immigrant entrepreneurs in starting their businesses. We spoke with Dodji Ousmane, an immigrant, serial entrepreneur, innovator, and mother of four, about her new initiative.
How did this social venture idea come about?
As an immigrant and community worker, I have witnessed immigrants’ struggles when starting businesses in Canada. Many have an entrepreneurial spirit but lack the resources or knowledge to navigate the system. Souk Marketplace was created to give them a platform to test their products without the high costs of opening a store and to enrich Hamilton’s retail scene with cultural diversity.
Can you tell me about your entrepreneurial journey in Hamilton?
My entrepreneurial journey in Hamilton began over a decade ago with the creation of several businesses that have each contributed to my growth as an entrepreneur. One of the most notable successes was Stimugro, a social enterprise focused on supporting women in Chad, Africa. Stimugro specializes in developing innovative natural hair care products with imported rare ingredients like Chebe, a traditional ingredient known for its hair care benefits. Stimugro became a recognized brand, and we could export our products globally. The success of this venture not only reinforced my passion for social entrepreneurship but also provided a strong foundation for my current work with Souk Marketplace.
When I moved to Canada in 1998, I had to find my way. Now, I want to help others find theirs. I am greatly inspired by the words of Zig Ziglar: ‘You will get all you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want.’
What moment did you realize Hamilton is the place for you and Souk Marketplace?
Since I moved to Hamilton 23 years ago, Hamilton’s community spirit and diversity have made me feel at home. I’ve seen firsthand how supportive the city is of local businesses, social enterprises, and community empowerment. The growing immigrant population has also highlighted the need for a space like Souk Marketplace.
Connecting with Jackson Square Mall was a game-changer for this project. The mall’s prime location and community vibe made it the perfect spot for Souk Marketplace. Jocelyne Mainville, Leasing Manager at First Real Properties, supported my vision. The enthusiasm of vendors, customers, and mall staff made the process smooth, proving Hamilton was ready for this project. I’m excited to contribute to the city’s growth and to be part of its vibrant, entrepreneurial future.
“You just need to find the right person to believe in you and open the door.”
Dodji Ousmane, Founder of Souk Marketplace
What does the vision of Suk Marketplace look like 2-3 years down the road?
In the coming years, I envision Souk Marketplace evolving into a vibrant hub featuring over 100 vendors across various locations. We aim to expand our workshops, host cultural events, showcase local art, launch the online marketplace and establish a network of multicultural marketplaces that empower immigrant entrepreneurs.
How do you do it all?
Even though I work full time, pouring my passion into something tangible and doing something serves as meditation. I’ve created a system at Souk Marketplace where vendors take ownership of the space and project, each with their responsibilities. This allows me to oversee the entire operation while empowering vendors to manage day-to-day tasks. On weekends, I visit the marketplace to support the vendors, check in and see if they need anything. Taking active, consistent steps toward my goals keeps me grounded for both me and my family. Even my kids volunteer at Souk Marketplace, learning alongside me, which allows us to spend more time together as a family.
What advice would you give to a recent immigrant looking to launch a business in Hamilton?