AN INNOVATIVE program designed to mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs was launched in Bega this week.
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On Tuesday, July 28, a joint venture between the Bega Valley Shire Council, Lighthouse Business Innovation Centre and Community Training Partnerships termed “Net Gen” was introduced to intrigued young people and local business identities.
Bega Valley Shire Council’s manager of community culture and information, Simon Schweitzer, said he was pleased to see the Net Gen youth project getting off the ground and preparing to guide the next generation of ideas and business people.
He said the upcoming 12-week program is targeted at 15-17-year-olds and will “allow them to create their own ideas and unleash their potential”, with help from mentors and sponsors in the local business community.
“This is also a call for the community and businesses to put their hand up to work with these young people,” Mr Schweitzer said.
Mayor Michael Britten told the young people present they were “walking in times of change”.
“With your youth and enthusiasm, if you can take an opportunity like this and take advantage of what is offered, go for it,” Cr Britten said.
Two Bega High School students were on hand at Tuesday’s launch and spoke of their enthusiasm at the program’s potential – despite not being able to participate yet.
Amber Callaghan and Ellie Murdoch are in Year 11 at BHS, but also have a TAFE commitment that clashes with the timing of the Net Gen program.
That didn’t stop them from eagerly tackling last week’s innovation boot camp at Bournda.
“It was so much more than I was expecting,” Ellie said.
“We got a lot out of it and it was a lot of fun as well.”
“We learnt skills we can actually use in the workforce,” Amber added.
Don’t think because of their youth they can’t think big either.
Amber said her group’s business pitch at the camp was for edible baling twine!
“One of the girls in the group had a calf die recently from ingesting baling twine,” Amber said.
“Our idea was to make it edible and soaked in supplements.
“We expanded on the idea as much as possible and then had to form a business plan and pitch the idea.”
To help mentor local youth or put your hand up as a sponsor to assist them in getting these business skills and entrepreneurial ideas off the page, call the council on 6499 2222.
The program is being funded by the NSW Department of Family and Community Services as part of its Youth Opportunities initiative.