From puppy photography to fruit peel skincare, these Young Entrepreneurs are shaping the future! The King’s Trust Australia’s inaugural Young Entrepreneur’s Programme (YEP) wrapped up last week with a ceremony at Government House in Melbourne.
Participants aged 18-35 came together to explore ideas and build their own businesses, supported by expert guidance, inclusive learning, peer circles, and mentor networks. They hailed from different ethnicities, cultures, gender identities, and religions, but they united to bring their dreams of owning their own businesses and bettering the world to life.
The programme kicked off in Melbourne with face-to-face group activities, and continued online with regular coaching, guest speakers, and community building. Participants completed the ten-week course by returning to Melbourne to deliver their business pitches to a panel of judges.
“Being surrounded by like-minded, driven individuals, each building completely different ideas and ventures, has been both inspiring and motivating,” said YEP participant Mia Sinosic-Cass. “There’s something powerful about being in a space where ambition, creativity, and a genuine desire to create impact all come together.”
Participants pitched a wide variety of businesses, ranging from commercial endeavours to social enterprises, spanning sectors from healthcare to food waste, and everything in between!
“This programme isn’t just about starting a business, it’s about building confidence, networks, and skills,” said Executive Director Dean Delia. “It’s about curating a community of diverse changemakers who will continue to learn and grow together, now and into the future. It’s about backing young people, so that they have the mindset and skillset to thrive. YEP is just the beginning for these young people and we’re thrilled to play a small part in their hero’s journey.”
Congratulations to all programme participants for their hard work and effort. A special congratulations to the recipient of the Young Achiever Award, Keshika Jayakumar, as well as Rising Star Award winners, Gemma Gala and Sahil Makhija. Each recipient was also awarded seed funding to get their business off the ground.
Stay tuned for more of these Young Entrepreneurs as they take the world by storm!
