Entrepreneurs galore . . . Ellerslie Secondary students bring out their best

Rising entrepreneurs at Ellerslie Secondary got the opportunity to market and sell products and services today to fellow students and teachers.

Cupcakes, cookies, natural juices, jewelry, underwear, popcorn, candies, and eyelashes were just some of the many products and services on sale as the Black Rock based institution staged its 2020 Entrepreneurship Extravaganza. There were over 60 booths at the Extravaganza.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ellerslie’s Principal Major Errol Brathwaite said that as the school celebrates its 54th anniversary, the activity showcases the best of Ellerslie.

He said the Extravaganza aims to provide an opportunity for students to display their talents in a business development setting through the promotion of skills for the future.

The Principal said he expects all students would benefit from the activity which seeks to promote practical experiences for a select group of students to create and maintain interest among the school’s population in the area of business, entrepreneurship and leadership.

Major Brathwaite also urged those viewing the exhibits to motivate and encourage the young entrepreneurs to continue building on the foundation.

“Today should and must be the beginning of the path on which many of them will build their future. As the students display and promote their businesses and their business ideas, I am confident that their activities will reflect hard work and commitment to success.

“This Extravaganza is an indication that our students have fully embraced the school’s motto in making wise use of their time. Today I am very excited about what our exhibitors will be presenting to the general public,” Brathwaite said.

Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education Senator Dr Rommel Springer who officially opened the event, said the venture was important since it seeks to inculcate in students the drive and passion for entrepreneurship and build on the knowledge and competencies learned in business studies and related courses.

Dr Springer said the initiative, organised by the school, also acts as a means of improving students self esteem and confidence as they seek to promote, develop and grow their products, services and brands.

The Parliamentary Secretary reminded those gathered that Barbados’ culture and society promotes hard work and the benefits of such that would lead to students attaining success in their chosen area of business. The Ministry official advised the students that while they will encounter struggles on their journey, being an entrepreneur or owner of their own business requires that they will have to continuously motivate themselves.

“As you showcase your talents also take time to be introspective and ask questions such as, ‘how can I make this product better?’ Accept comments and criticisms even if it makes you uncomfortable and finally, visit the booths of other exhibitors, encourage them and give them your support,” Dr Springer said.

Azarie Lovell, owner of Swan Princess Cosmetics, said she was happy for the opportunity to showcase her natural skin and body care products to her teachers and schoolmates.

“I have lip scrubs, lip balms, hair oil, cuticle oil and I also have some body products. My mother and I made them at home using all natural products. I feel very good and confident to show my products because I do love to take care of my skin and watch other girls and ladies take care of their skin as well.

“I am also here to give people ideas on how they can make their skin care products naturally. There are women out there who have very bad acne problems and they need help,” Lovell said.

Student Rhesa Cumberbatch, owner of RiRi Jewels, said she had a strong passion for jewelry and was ready to show her schoolmates the different styles she had to offer. anestahenry@barbadostoday.bb