The establishment of the first-ever Western Province Youth Entrepreneurs Council (WPYEC) will help transform the lives, shape the destinies and build brighter futures for entrepreneurs in the state as they embark on a new journey full of hope and determination.
These were the words of the Western Province Minister of State for Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (WYCFA), Richard Beck, at the launch of the WPYEC in Gizo, the provincial capital.
The event was organised by the WP Youth Desk and held at Gizo Hotel.
Minister Beck said the Western Provincial Government recognised the challenges facing young people.
“These barriers include limited opportunities, high unemployment, economic marginalization, logistical bottlenecks, skills gaps, lack of businesses catering to locals, and complex access to financial opportunities in commercial banks and other financial institutions.”
But Minister Beck said that amid these challenges, a flame of resilience, creativity and potential burns within each young person.
“Today, we come together to fan the flames of entrepreneurship and pave the way for opportunity and prosperity for future generations,” he added.
Minister Beck said the importance of entrepreneurship in the province cannot be overstated.
“This will serve as a catalyst for an overreaction that will provide meaningful employment opportunities for young people and alleviate the scourge of unemployment that has plagued our communities for far too long.”
“Young fishermen are turning their catches into a thriving seafood export business, creating jobs and the economy for islanders.”
“The aspiring fashion designer has transformed her passion for traditional textiles into a globally recognised brand that showcases the beauty and craftsmanship of our culture to the world.
“It is tech-savvy innovators who are harnessing the power of digital technologies to connect our remote communities to global markets, forge partnerships and alliances with countries around the world, and blaze new trails in trade and e-commerce,” Minister Beck added.
WPYEC is currently operational and serves registered young entrepreneurs from Marovo to the Shortland Islands.
Ulta Gina
Solomon Starr, Gizo
