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The first two-day Global Entrepreneurship Workshop organised by Young Arab Leaders-Bahrain in association with Bahrain Development Bank and Bahrain Business Incubator Centre was described as a huge success.
The workshop last week was held at Elite Suites with Philip Treleaven, Pro-Provost and Professor of Computing at UCL as the key speaker.
The event was inaugurated by vice-chairman of the Young Arab Leaders-Bahrain (YAL), Mazin Al Shehabi and head of Business Services, Adnan Al Balushi, and concluded with a Q&A session related to the various aspects of entrepreneurship.
It was attended by 100 delegates and representatives from government, business, academic, professional and institutional arenas and highlighted the importance of inculcating entrepreneurship in the kingdom’s youth to capitalise on the opportunities knocking at our doors.
Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa, chairman of YAL-Bahrain, said: “In our role as a youth development organisation, we acknowledge that young Arabs benefit from greater involvement and programmes on leadership, education and entrepreneurship.
“With proper nurturing and support, the creativity of young minds has infinite potential, giving us a wealth of knowledge which can be tapped into. The Global Entrepreneurship Workshop is one of the ways we (YAL) can engage our young leaders. We are keen on supporting such innovation and talent.
“The support and contribution of Bahrain Development Bank and Bahrain Business Incubator is a true demonstration of their commitment to developing leadership through entrepreneurship and how organisations can partner together for the benefit of all”.
Nedhal Saleh Al Aujan, chief executive officer, Bahrain Development Bank shared his enthusiasm. “Great event. I am always amazed with the energy level and commitment demonstrated by today’s youth in converting their dreams to reality.
“Bahraini youth have proven that Bahrain has the required human resource potential for development. This event has significantly contributed towards building entrepreneurial capacities among the youth and directing them to a brighter future”.
The workshop conveyed that quality, effective leadership and inter-personal skills were the hallmarks of a good entrepreneur.
It was highlighted that the requisites of a dynamic entrepreneur were understanding of business, definition of customer group, appropriate technology and effective market strategy.
The two-day agenda included an intensive workshop to enhance the entrepreneurship skills of young Bahrainis. The programme was specifically designed to benefit more people and fit a wide age group from18-35yrs.
This workshop was exclusive in its structure and concept as it essentially concentrated on establishing an international enterprise, venture capital and utilising the latest technologies to boost profitability.
It explored global entrepreneurship for the next generation and the impact they may have on the future of their country’s economy along with the potential benefits of youth entrepreneurship as a viable career option, obstacles that stand in its way, and policy measures and strategies that can be initiated to support it.
It also analysed myths and misconceptions surrounding entrepreneurship and presented its various facets. The workshop was very successful and organisers received very positive feedback.
Participant Layla Al Sharif, 24, said: “Professor Philip Treleaven provided useful fundamental steps in launching a new idea in Bahrain and setting up a start up business. This is a good push for me to bring my business idea to life.”
Nasser Al Rahim, 22, said: “We leant a lot about starting up a global entrepreneurship and strategies to develop the business sector. Professor Philip Treleaven was very insightful. I would like to thank the organisations behind hosting it. ”
Hussam Essa, 20, said: “The information given out during the workshop was very beneficial and it showed, how we as young Arabs can create businesses, and more importantly benefit our own country and economy.”
“We were able to sense the entrepreneurial spirit and atmosphere. The session provided information that is not taught in classrooms. Excellent preparation, many thanks for this successful workshop,” said Aisha Al Areifi, 22.
Prof Treleaven said: “The participants were quite enthusiastic and the sessions were very interactive. Bahraini youth certainly have a lot of innovative ideas that can be turned into a business. There are lots of opportunities and it was very worthwhile.”
