Seven young people have made a positive leap into the future by giving up their time and energy to develop two youth business concepts. Over the past year, the LenZone Youth Resource Centres have been working with young people to develop youth led initiatives. One example of this has been the Technology for Teenagers program in which second hand computers are restored and refurbished and redistributed to students in need of a computer for their studies.

During November, the young people involved in this initiative were issued the challenge of determining the future direction of this program. Business skills training was provided to the young people by the University of Ballarat. Under the guidance of tutor Stacey Taig, seven young people worked to complete a feasibility study and business plan for the technology program and for a youth led radio initiative. Leading the charge for the technology program were students Christopher Hawkins, Bradley McNeill, Ashley Goudie, Charlie Pearse and Daniel Collinson. Hannah Ellen and Sarah Garton drove the Radio Station and Podcasting business development.

Throughout the training, students were invited to explore a number of the advantages and pitfalls in running a business. They also heard from young business man Brad Thomas of Thumb Snappers about his path to business success. The business skills training offered to the teenage students is usually undertaken by adults but despite this barrier, Ms Taig and the University were very impressed by the results produced by the students. “This group blew me away. They produced work equal and beyond that of many adult learners, and they put in a fantastic effort. The end results were very impressive and if their feasibility and business plans are anything to go by, they all have very bright futures ahead of them” said Stacey. Project Manager Belinda Healy was particularly impressed with the dedication that the group showed in turning up to business skills training in the evenings after school and even during exam period. “The group went above and beyond expectations and should all be very proud of their efforts” Belinda said.

These opportunities have been provided through the Enterprise Learning for the 21st Century Program which teaches young people to be entrepreneurial and discover what it means to be an innovator and run your own business.