Newcomers to Creators

Lincoln’s vibrant immigrant and refugee communities are shaping Nebraska through entrepreneurship, creativity, and service in this episode of "What If…" Host Mike Tobias explores the stories of people building businesses, uplifting neighborhoods, and creating opportunities for others. Meet ECHO Collective, a nonprofit helping immigrant and refugee women launch businesses and achieve financial independence through entrepreneurship training and support. And spend time with Hasan Khalil — a musician, barber, and youth soccer program founder using creativity and community engagement to inspire the next generation. The episode also highlights immigrant-owned local businesses along Lincoln's diverse 27th street: Amparito’s Market, Tiru Ethiopian Restaurant and Misky Bakery. This episode of "What If…" celebrates innovation, resilience, culture, and the power of entrepreneurship to strengthen communities. #WhatIfNebraska #NebraskaPublicMedia #Entrepreneurship #ImmigrantStories #LincolnNebraska #SmallBusiness #RefugeeStories #Community © 2026 Nebraska Public Media Foundation. All rights reserved. Learn more about the innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship across Nebraska by visiting https://NebraskaPublicMedia.org/WhatIf This video, “Newcomers to Creators” is a part of the 7th season of “What If…Nebraska”. FOLLOW US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/NebraskaPublicMedia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaPublicMedia X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/NebPublicMedia Instagram: https://instagram.com/NebraskaPublicMedia