12 October 2007

MEDIA RELEASE

Tribute to Teenage Talent

Fifteen Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) Companies were acknowledged at the Smales Farm Regional Awards last night. The companies, made up of Year 12 and 13 students from seven secondary schools in the region, represent the enterprising business entrepreneurs of their generation. The awards were presented in front of 170 dignitaries, business mentors, principals, proud parents and students.

The Enterprise North Shore Company of the year is Novulus of Westlake Boys High School, with Cybersitters from Long Bay College the runner up. Enterprise North Shore hosts the Regional Coordinator for YES and is the major local sponsor. Both awards were presented by His Worship the Mayor, George Wood, who says “The energy, innovation and professionalism of the YES companies increases every year; North Shore schools are providing quality educational opportunities to generate critical business thinking skills in our young people”.

Cathy Bi, an impressive young lady with strong leadership skills, talent and a dedicated and focussed approach to business, was awarded the Smales Farm Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2007. Cathy, the Managing Director of Venzura from Westlake Girls High School, gave an enlightening speech on “The biggest challenges overcome this year”.

Communication is a key for these young teams as they learn the ways of the business world; Horizon Pacific Excellence in Communication Award was presented to Carlene Goad from Micro Charge at Rangitoto College. Dwayne Smith, CEO and Founder of Horizon Pacific, says “Communication is absolutely critical in business; it’s impressive to see the level of professionalism and responsiveness which Carlene is already displaying before even leaving college. She is sure to do well in the business world.”

The Quicken NZ Excellence in Information Technology award was scooped up by Ensiform from Long Bay College with their multi-level computer game. The game, White Monk, is targeted at 9-13 year olds and is priced at just $15 in order to compete with the likes of Microsoft.

Bayleys North Shore Excellence in Ethics award was presented to Venzura from Westlake Girls High School for their hard work and business ethics in the company which created waterproof backpack covers to keep homework dry.

GJ Gardner Homes Commitment Award was won by Cybersitters from Long Bay College; this young company experienced serious setbacks when a trusted person stole their website. The fact that they continued diligently is a testimony to their commitment.

Orcon Internet Excellence in Technology Award went to Magno Covers from Orewa College for their carseat covers with magnet inserts for health and circulation benefits while driving. Magno Covers created their innovative product from conception to delivery, overcoming technological hurdles along the way.

Massey University School of Engineering and Technology Excellence in Innovation and Problem Solving Award was presented to the well-deserving Pucci Products from Kingsway School for their highly innovative dogbeds. A waterproof inner and washable polar fleece outer creates an odour free, bacteria free, rot proof dogbed which fulfils the dog’s need for comfort and the owner’s need for hygiene and affordability.

Spicers Financial Advisors analysed the Annual Reports for all the Companies and presented three Excellences in Financial Management Awards. First place went to Indulge Devonport from Takapuna Grammar School; second place to Novulus from Westlake Boys High School and third place to Twisted Clothing from Long Bay College.

The North Shore Region is a shining star in the Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme for New Zealand with a record eight Companies receiving 100% on their Coordinators Mark from the YES Regional Coordinator, Ngaio Merrick. Merrick is thrilled with the result: “This is an indication of participation, engagement and communication – all of which are critical for business success. We are in good hands with the next generation of North Shore business people.”

Background:
There are 43 YES Companies across 14 secondary schools participating in YES in the North Shore Region.

Students participating in YES form a legal company, open a bank account and prepare a Business Plan which they present orally in a “Dragon’s Den” situation. They attend a Trade Fair at the ASB Showgrounds in August where they present their product to the public. The year concludes with a full Annual Report which is sent to Enterprise New Zealand Trust in Wellington for grading grade.

About Enterprise North Shore Trust:
Enterprise North Shore was established by North Shore City Council as North Shore City’s economic development agency, in 1993. Enterprise North Shore serves as North Shore City's primary engine for sustainable economic development, and supports the development of local and regional strategies for the creation of a vibrant and buoyant economy.

Ends

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