Wei's Toy Store

Wei came from China with the hope that he would find a job in Ireland. After six years, however, he could not find consistent work and did not feel socially accepted in Dublin. In 2010, Wei decided to return to China, where his wife and family were living, but did not have enough money to purchase the ticket. One day, he read about the voluntary return programme in a Chinese newspaper. He then began working with the IOM staff, and received help in arranging his return to China.

When Wei returned, he was surprised at how much had changed. He thought that he would want to stay permanently, but found that he was still struggling to support himself in China. Wei decided to apply for the reintegration grant, and contacted IOM Ireland through another IOM office in Beijing. He used the grant to set up a retail business for children’s toys and books. Within six months, Wei’s store was profitable enough to support both him and his wife. Wei plans to invest further in his business and hopes that it will continue to expand.

From his experience, Wei recommends that other entrepreneurs take the time to understand what has changed in their home countries since they left, and to “consider carefully” the cost of setting up a business. He also suggests that returnees receive business or vocational training before they leave Ireland to help them find success in their new lives.