Young Carmarthenshire tycoons have been battling it out in the world of business.
Students from across the county have been competing in the Carmarthenshire Young Enterprise contest.
Pupils from six comprehensive schools set up their own companies and spent 13 weeks actively trading.
They were given advice from business development officers at the County Council before going head-to-head to be named the best in the area.
Company reports, trade stands, team programmes and presentations were all taken into account.
The competition, which was held at Carmarthen’s Halliwell Centre, was part of a series of schemes by the county council to support young people.
A team of students from Tregib Comprehensive won the event and will go forward to represent the county at the regional final in Q.E High School later this month.
Council Business Development Officer Angharad Harding said:
“The standard of entries for the Carmarthenshire Young Enterprise was extremely high and we were very impressed by the quality of work put forward.
“A total support package is offered to young people to increase their entrepreneurial skills and provide advice to help them start up in business.
“We wish the team from Tregib every success at the regional final.”
A number of programmes are in place to help young people improve their business skills.
Officers go into schools to help students wanting to set up their own businesses and give them all the advice they could need.
Suitable areas of work are identified to make sure they are ready for the world of employment.
Successful ‘Insight’ and ‘World of Work ‘programmes, which are aimed at encouraging young people to stay and work in Carmarthenshire, are also up and running in the county.
At the moment many leave for other parts of the country where they feel there are more jobs available for them.
A pilot work experience programme has been designed to give them an insight into career opportunities with the authority.
Council staff give presentations on their work and run workshops for year 10 students.
Officers run interactive workshops on the authority and the job opportunities available.
The council is also a partner in the ‘Young Enterprise’ scheme which helps students in years 12-13 to start their own businesses. The ‘Celtic Enterprise’ project is a similar venture aimed at students in years 9-10.
Regeneration Executive Board Member cllr Clive Scourfield said: “The council is committed to supporting young people in Carmarthenshire and there is a fantastic package of help available for those who want to set up businesses in Carmarthenshire.”
For further information on youth enterprise contact Angharad Harding on 01554 744325.
