Northlands' young entrepreneurs step up again

2 August, 2004

ENTERPRISE EDUCATION : MEDIA RELEASES 2004

Northland secondary students were challenged to come up with a viable business enterprise within four months and then present their enterprise to a panel of four to assess the viability. A big ask, but a record number of Young Enterprise Students (YES) completed their Oral Presentations last week impressing the judges with the quality and the obvious effort that had been put into them. Vanessa Adams, local CEO for ANZ Northland, said she admired the courage and tenacity of some of the students, particularly in their public speaking skills.

The innovative ways in which the young business people presented their products and services also impressed the other judges, Laurie Young, retired banker, Eddie McKersey from People Potential and Gerald Skerten, retired business manager.

Products and services were wide and varied, ranging from compost heated outdoor showers to a crash pack with items that might be needed in an accident. Other products included thermal protective gear for sports training and games, along with modular ramps for motocross bikes.

Regional winners ($200 each) were:

• Mini Mimics Broadwood Area School Christmas CD
• TLC Dargaville High School Novelty Wheat Bags
• Smart Juniors Kamo High School Teaching Aids for Young Children

Best visual presentations ($100 each) went to:

• Freestyle 02 Springbank School Motocross Ramps
• Lazies Whangarei Girls High School Wheat Bags
• HER Tikipunga High School Fashion Clothing