News
Shortlist announced for international young entrepreneur
competition
13 August 2009
Youth Business International has announced the
shortlist for the YBI Entrepreneur of the Year 2009
competition.
The competition, which is now in its third year, celebrates the
success of young entrepreneurs around the world – the achievements
of whom are helping to grow local communities, stimulate job
creation and provide essential products and services. Young people
that have been supported by the global network led by Youth
Business International – spanning some 39 countries – are eligible
to enter the competition.
The shortlisted entrepreneurs range across 11 countries and a
variety of industries, from mushroom growing to green tourism.
The winners of each category will be announced on 16 November on
the first day of Global Entrepreneurship Week. The overall YBI
Entrepreneur of the Year will be announced on the same day and will
be selected by a high-profile judging panel. The general public
will also be able to vote for the People’s Choice award, which will
be open during the run-up to Global Entrepreneurship Week.
Journey to Enterprise category:
For those who have overcome particularly tough challenges in
setting up their business
Mustapha Mohamadu, Murshida Gift and Fashion Company,
Sri Lanka: A manufacturer of bags and purses made of scrap
materials who has rebuilt his business after the 2004 Tsunami.
Fadi Elobra, Duroos, Israel: The founder of a
learning centre for underprivileged Arab youth.
Daniel Matheri, Mbao Craft, Kenya: A designer
and manufacturer of furniture, he also trains young people in
carpentry.
Juan Ramón Nuñez, The Light of
Sound, Argentina: Runs a community radio station to
benefit the local area; also runs a sound and lighting company.
Environmentally Sustainable category:
For those whose businesses help advance environmental
principles
Sarala Bastian, Arokia Foods, India: A mushroom
grower and distributor who has helped others to set up similar
schemes.
Bobby Mitchell, Pure Services, Scotland:
Provides environmentally friendly IT recycling for businesses.
Jorge Alberto Noverón, TresDe Arquitectura,
Mexico: An architect who incorporates environmentally
friendly designs in his buildings.
Female category:
For women who have succeeded as entrepreneurs and acted as a role
model
Ghadah Baaqil, Ghadah Medina Autism Centre, Saudi
Arabia: Founder of a day-care centre specialising in
support for autistic children and their families.
Oksana Usanova, Rural Green Tourism Services,
Ukraine: A developer of green tourism in her local
region.
Linet Indiazi, Ness Hair and Beauty Parlour,
Kenya: Founder of a hair and beauty salon that provides
employment and teaching to the local community.
Innovation category:
For those who have created innovative products or services in
manufacturing or technology
Mouneer Al-Kojak, Ibn Sina Pharmaceutical Software,
Syria: A pioneer in developing tailored software for
pharmaceutical businesses.
Georgi Dichev, Future Media, Bulgaria: A
developer of specialised computer services, including 3D imaging
and web development.
Philip Ross & Martin Izod, Safehinge,
Scotland: Creator of innovative products, including a
safety door hinge which prevents fingers getting trapped in
doors.
About the YBI Entrepreneur of the Year
competition
YBI Entrepreneur of the Year competition was set up in 2006 to
celebrate the achievements of young entrepreneurs in the YBI
Network.
The competition is open to all entrepreneurs in the YBI Network
who:
Had access to a volunteer business
mentor;
Were aged between 18 and 35 when they received their start-up
loan;
Have a business that has been trading for between 6 months and 3
years; Had no current loan repayment arrears.
The shortlisted thirteen were selected by a judging panel from
other Prince’s Charities.
YBI and Global Entrepreneurship Week
YBI is proud to be a global partner of Global Entrepreneurship
Week. Running from 16-22 November 2009, the week comprises a range
of activities – from large-scale competitions to networking events
– that hope to inspire young people to embrace innovation and
creativity and to connect them to the people that can help
kick-start their businesses. More at www.unleashingideas.org.