Enterprising students vying for top prize at Waikato awards

More than 200 enterprising Waikato secondary school students are vying for success at the Waikato Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) Annual Awards this month.

Year 12 and 13 students from throughout the region have set up and run their own businesses this year, creating, promoting, and selling a product or service, conducting market research, planning, budgeting, taking and managing risk and turning problems into challenges.

Regional finals will be held on Thursday November 1, at 4.30pm, The Atrium, Wintec, Hamilton. The 2018 finalists Waikato are:

These teams were standout performers in the YES competition throughout the year and will pitch panel of judges who will choose the winner at the awards. This will be followed by an awards ceremony with winners announced at the end.

YES Waikato co-ordinator Levinia Paku, of Smart Waikato Trust, said she was impressed with the calibre of this year’s entries, ranging from food delivery services in schools to customised temporary tattoos and mobile babysitting services to sustainable products.

“These awards are a reflection of the very talented young entrepreneurs we have here in Waikato. Teams are not only thinking outside the square to develop unique products, they are working hardto fulfil the requirements of running a successful business,” Levinia said.

YES helps students develop knowledge in operating a small business, team building, relationship management, meeting procedures, record keeping, the legal requirements for running a business, and the process of reporting company performance.

Its value is far-reaching, providing students with skills to equip them for life after school. The YES experience also adds depth to a resume when seeking employment.

Winners of the regional awards will go on to compete in national awards in Wellington on December 6.

YES is sponsored in Waikato by Wintec, Te Wananga o Aotearoa, the University of Waikato, Foster Construction, Waikato Chambers of Commerce, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, EMA Waikato, Waikato Business News and Stafford Industries.