Avaruna Egede and her partner from Nanortalik have been entrepreneurs since 2013 and are behind several initiatives – ranging from a barbecue kiosk and a clothing store to a café, South Greenland Boat Charter 44, and today Souvenir Shop Nanortalik. What they all have in common is that they emerged from a concrete need in the town.
“I’ve always wanted to create something. I ask myself: What is missing in the town? I often start with what I’m personally interested in. However, my interests have changed since we had children. Before that, I was very interested in clothing, and when the opportunity arose, we opened a clothing store,” says Avaruna Egede.
The clothing store became possible through a chance purchase of a former municipal building in the town center. Shortly afterward, the idea of opening a café in part of the building emerged, as the town lacked a natural meeting place.
Creating, Developing, and Bringing People Together
The café also became the couple’s first encounter with tourists who—despite the magnificent nature surrounding Nanortalik—missed having activities and offers within the town itself. This became the starting point for their involvement in tourism.
“When we entered the tourism sector, there was a lack of boats that could carry passengers. That’s how South Greenland Boat Charter 44 started, and we still operate it today,” Avaruna Egede explains.
As larger cruise ships began calling at the port, she started thinking about how the opportunity could benefit the whole town. This led to the opening of Souvenir Shop Nanortalik, which Avaruna runs today.
She explains that she works with artists and craftspeople from across Greenland and develops products based on her own ideas.
For Avaruna, entrepreneurship is about taking action—and preferably doing something that also benefits others. Her commitment therefore extends beyond business and into the local community, where the couple has, among other initiatives, organized fundraising activities for people affected by cancer.
“I Got It from My Father”
She sees her desire to create, develop, and organize as an integral part of her identity, something that dates to her childhood. She grew up on a sheep farm in Igaliku and clearly remembers how, even as a child, she organized dance events and community activities in the village. Seeing something grow gives her energy.
Avaruna Egede is also involved in Asasara Nanortalik, an organization working to make the town more accessible for everyone. She is known for taking initiative, creating gathering places, and actively contributing to ensuring that Nanortalik remains a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
At Innovation South Greenland, we work strategically to strengthen and highlight these women—women who take responsibility, create jobs, and lead the way in developing a sustainable and locally rooted business community in South Greenland. Avaruna Egede is one of them.
