The Dominica Youth Business Trust (DYBT) has embarked on a week-long celebration of innovation, resilience, and the spirit of entrepreneurship which forms part of Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW).
The activities will run from November 18 to 21, 2024, under the theme: “Entrepreneurship is for Everyone”.
Global Entrepreneurship Week is an initiative of the Kauffman Foundation and Enterprise UK and is promoted by the Youth Business International (YBI) network of which the DYBT is a member.
“To kick off the week of activities, leveraging on the success of previous school tours, we will once again extend our outreach to selected schools across Dominica,” Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, Senator Oscar George said while addressing the launching ceremony of GEW held at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium Conference Room on Monday.
He said the primary objective is to foster a culture of youth entrepreneurship urging students to appreciate and support local endeavors.
“This forthcoming school tour will be led by the DYBT and is scheduled from Tuesday, November 19, to Thursday, November 21,” Oscar explained.
He continued, “On Wednesday, November 20, DYBT will host its 20th Graduation and Awards Ceremony. The ceremony is [scheduled] to be held at the St Alphonsus Parish Hall in Goodwill and will mark the graduation of over 40 young entrepreneurs who have successfully completed various programs offered by the DYBT.”
Additionally, George indicated that outstanding entrepreneurs will be acknowledged and presented with awards in recognition of their outstanding entrepreneurial endeavors and accomplishments.
Finally, on Thursday, November 21, the Trust will collaborate with the Youth Development Division to host the ‘Entrepreneurial Showcase’ in the eastern district.
This, he said, will take place at the Castle Bruce Youth Centre from 10:00 AM.
George encouraged everyone to take part in the week of activities.
Moreover, he said small entrepreneurs play a very critical role in the advancement of Dominica’s economy, especially in rural communities.
“More money tends to stay in the rural areas when we purchase things from our small entrepreneurs…” George noted. “This is why an entire week is set aside to celebrate and recognize the contribution of entrepreneurs.”
In recognizing the importance of entrepreneurship, George commended the DYBT for their tremendous work in promoting entrepreneurial spirit among the youth.
“DYBT has been instrumental in equipping young entrepreneurs with the training, mentorship, and access to funding needed to launch and sustain their businesses,” he stated. “By providing practical skills and financial support, DYBT helps convert dreams into viable businesses, empowering young Dominicans to drive change in their communities and beyond.”
Furthermore, George encouraged young people to become entrepreneurs.
“I encourage all young people to become entrepreneurs,” he said. “There is this notion that when you complete your studies that you have to depend on a job from a bank or some other financial institution or government or utility company. And I think it’s about time that young people realize that they have to go out and create opportunities for themselves.”
In fact, George explained that many things are in high demand in Dominica.
“And one of the things I have always said is if you want to develop a successful business the first thing you have to do is to do your research and when you do your research you have to find out what is it that person needs. Is there a problem and what is the solution to that problem?” he explained. “And if your business is in a position to solve a problem that the average man faces it will be very difficult for your business to fail.”
He added, “The problem will exist and you will be there offering solutions to the average man.”
Meanwhile, Coordinator of the DYBT Phillip Rolle announced that the trust is gearing up to host its 20th Anniversary Awards Ceremony, an evening of class and celebration carded for Friday, December 13, 2024.
“This is a ceremony that will mark two decades of a commitment to nurturing and empowering young entrepreneurs across Dominica,” Rolle said.
He stated also that over the years DYBT has evolved into a dynamic institution adapting to the changing business landscape while staying true to the mission of empowering Dominican youth to realize their entrepreneurial potential.
“The 20th Anniversary Awards Ceremony will be an evening of reflection, appreciation, and celebration,” he stated. “A time to honour the many individuals and organizations whose contributions have strengthened the trust and paved the way for our young entrepreneurs’ success.”
Rolle added that at the ceremony awards will be presented to several outstanding individuals and groups, including long-standing partners who have supported the DYBT’s mission.
One of the highlights of the evening will be the People’s Choice Award for Youth Entrepreneur of the Year.
“This award invites the public to actively participate by casting their votes for their favourite entrepreneur,” he explained.
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