Entrepreneurs of the future get together for masterclass events

Pictured at the tourism masterclass in Mossley Mill are Mayor Thomas Hogg with Edmund Rice College students Ethan Casey, Liam Brothy and Dylan Mallon and their teacher, Jennifer McKeever. INNT 47-005-PSB

Pupils from schools across Antrim and Newtownabbey joined together for a number of special events to mark ‘Global Entrepreneurship Week.’

The students were able to explore enterprise and employment opportunities that are available to them within the business and tourism industries.

The events took place over three days and were run in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Young Enterprise NI.

Over 500 P6 pupils from 15 local schools took part in a two-day business masterclass at Mossley Mill.

Abbey Community College students William Thompson and Seliya Varghese with teachers Mr Gary Shields and Mrs Debbie Seath and Carol Fitzsimons (left) at the tourism masterclass at Mossley Mill. INNT 47-007-PSB

The pupils were addressed by Christine Craig from Asda, who explained branding to them.

The masterclass was delivered over four sessions and began with an introduction to business. Students then had the chance to re-design the packaging of a drinks carton. They will report back with their final designs in the next few weeks.

On the third and final day, a tourism masterclass was delivered to seventeen post-primary groups who heard from entrepreneurs Alastair Bell from The Gobbins Cliff Path and Michelle Hagan from The Prince’s Trust, both of whom were part of the Young Enterprise programme when they were in school.

The young people gave business concept pitches before a judging panel and their fellow students decided on the best presentation. The winning group, from Abbey Community College, walked away with a trophy and hamper provided by the council.

Students from Edmund Rice College working on a business plan during the Young Enterprise tourism masterclass. INNT 48-816CON

Mayor Thomas Hogg said: “I was extremely impressed with all the students and their ideas across the three days. It fills me with great hope for the future of our borough that we have so many enthusiastic and budding entrepreneurs in our midst.”