Member Article

Local business boost for South Tyneside students

Young people from South Tyneside schools have been working on an enterprise project which highlights successful role models from the area in order to inspire others to become successful in business. The project, which took place at Openzone City Learning Centre in South Shields, was delivered by TEDCO on behalf of South Tyneside Means Business and involved 18 students working with TEDCO’S Enterprise in Education staff, with specialist input from creative agency The bgroup, brand communications agency Gardiner Richardson and James De Marco of FNA films.

Emma Kerr, TEDCO’s enterprise in education development worker, said: “The project has enabled young people to gain a wealth of experience from a variety of successful role models from across the borough. They have shown commitment and dedication, ensuring the event is vibrant and informative and achieves its aim, which is to inspire local people to follow their dreams and view self employment as a viable career option.”

As part of the project, the group has delivered a marketing campaign, including the drafting of a press release about the project, and interviews for and the production of a supporting DVD. They have also planned and marketed an exhibition event to highlight the role models, including local businessman Geoff Ford, film director Ridley Scott, actor and comedian Eric Idle and ship building giant John Readhead at the Customs House tomorrow from 12pm–4pm. Business advisors will be present at the event to talk to local people about their ideas and give free advice on how to start their own business.

Councillor Eddie McAtominey, South Tyneside Council’s Lead Member Jobs, Enterprise and Regeneration, said: “Young people are the entrepreneurs of the future and if we are to affect a long term change in attitudes towards enterprise in South Tyneside, we must work with young people as well as adults to educate them to the possibilities of self employment. The group of young people involved in this project have worked very hard and I look forward to seeing the culmination of their efforts.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .