Young people across Bradford are setting up networking groups to support their quest to get ahead in business.
The Young Entrepreneurs Stepping Up (YESU) networks provide a safe environment for 11 to 19-year-olds to exchange ideas, make contacts, obtain resources and receive support to develop their ideas into viable businesses.
YESU is part of Bradford Council’s Step Up Enterprise scheme, funded by Bradford Kickstart, which helps young people build the skills, knowledge and attitudes needed for enterprising futures.
Students involved in YESU work with business mentors to develop their ideas and attend workshops and events as well as taking part in their network meetings.
Members progress through different levels of achievement, starting at bronze and ending with platinum, as participants show increasing levels of leadership and contribution.
Among four schools taking part so far is Buttershaw Business and Enterprise College, which has 10 pupils who have reached bronze standard.
Students there have been working on a range of ideas including a non-alcoholic cocktail bar, a school radio station, selling sock monkeys - stuffed toys made from socks - and jewellery business.
Sue Stewart, Events and Enterprise manager at Buttershaw Business and Enterprise College, said: “The students are really enjoying the YESU scheme and are gaining a valuable insight into the realities of building a successful business.
“In setting up their network they are able to share ideas and learn from one another which has benefits for their business and their overall development.”
To find out more, and how your school can get involved, email stepupenterprise@bradford.gov.uk or see our pages here.
