A Niche is Born
I'm always happy to call attention to people and businesses that have created a great niche— one that really takes them where they want to go— that not only builds on their strengths but has a fabulous market opportunity, as well. Most of all, it's a niche that reflects and conveys that person or company's unique style. In this issue of NicheLine I am especially pleased to share with you a niche story that is hard to beat. It is the ultimate in turning what you love into a world- class business. Nina Favata's story (and niche) is a reminder to each of us, regardless of the size or focus of our business that the best place to start with that proverbial niche hunt is by going home. 
To yourself.

Children's Oncology Wing Transformed
   While Artist's Niche Flourishes
     I had seen photographs of Nina Favata's work many times, so I should not have been surprised. Actually, "surprise" is not the right word. When I walked into the Children's Wing at Montreal Children's Hospital, I was transfixed by what I saw—glorious full color murals depicting scenes ranging from the African savannah to fanciful trips to outer space. Had I not known otherwise, it would have been easy to forget I was in an oncology ward where the fight for children's lives goes on every day. 
     As I moved slowly from panel to panel, I realized these murals represented the unique convergence of two exceptional spirits: the artist and the entrepreneur. They are an extraordinary example of someone doing what she loves, while making an enormous difference in the quality of children's lives, and all the while building a world-class business for herself—a niche at its best!
     A Niche Hunt Ended
    Nina's story has relevance for anyone on that proverbial niche hunt. After several late night visits to the local children's hospital with her young daughter, Nina, an accomplished professional artist, volunteered to brighten up one of the hospital's common areas with an original mural or two. Within weeks others in the hospital began to inquire how they, too, could get similar murals and wall art in their work areas. It was clear that Nina's murals took children (and their caregivers) to a totally different and better place than any cold blank wall ever could. Then and there, a niche was born: the Nina Favata Creations for Children's Fund. Today, Nina's exclusive focus is creating healing environments for children through her art. And, with stories in Canada's largest media, it is not surprising that other major hospitals have commissioned Nina Favata original murals. Her niche plate is not only unique; it is definitely very full, as well.
     To learn more about Nina Favata's work, please visit:

        http://www.canadianliving.com/family/features/spirits/index.asp
        http://www.muhc.mcgill.ca/Ensemble/v01n15/mch.html

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The Niche Doctor Packs for Australia  One of the huge advantages of my business is the opportunity it affords for travel to interesting places where I meet and learn from exceptional people. This October is one such opportunity. I'm proud to announce that October 27 & 28, 2002, I'll be in Sydney, Australia conducting presentations for the Australian Business Development Industry Conference- hosted by ANZABI, BEC Australia and the National NEIS Association. In addition to the keynote address, I'll be providing a workshop with fellow professional and our Australian  NicheCraft Certification Coach, Elisabeth Gortschacher.  Sign up now! ...to receive our Birthday Greeting which includes special discounts on selected products and services from the "Niche Doctor." Reply here and send your birthday date and month.      Dr. Lynda Falkenstein a.k.a. "The Niche Doctor" is available to help your organization strengthen and keep its' niche in the marketplace.  For information about Dr. Falkenstein's consulting services, or to secure a speaking engagement, please call (503) 228-6776. Make Your Niche! ...by helping others create their niche. Ask about our Professional Certification Program. Email drniche@falkenstein.com for more information. You are welcome to share this newsletter with others. When you do, please forward or copy in entirety to ensure the source is identified. If you would like to be removed from our email list, simply send a return email with "remove" in the subject line. Your name will be promptly removed. © Copyright 2002 Dr. Lynda Falkenstein - All rights reserved. 1800 SW 1st Ave | Suite 190 | Portland, OR 97201 503.228.6776 | Fax: 503.296.9012 drniche@falkenstein.com http://www.falkenstein.com