A new generation of entrepreneurial talent has once again been showcased through the Youth Entrepreneurs Academy Haywards Heath (YEAHH), as seventeen local students successfully completed the programme and demonstrated their skills at a vibrant Business Fair held at The Orchards Shopping Centre on Saturday 30th May.
Now in its second year, YEAHH is led by Haywards Heath Town Council with the continued support of the Haywards Heath Business Association and The Orchards Shopping Centre. The initiative aims to inspire young people, develop practical business skills, and provide valuable real-world experience for aspiring entrepreneurs from across the local area.
Students in school years 10 and 12 took part in the programme, which brings together young people with a passion for business, enterprise and leadership. This year, seventeen students participated in a series of interactive masterclasses delivered by experienced business professionals from the Haywards Heath Business Association.
Throughout the spring, participants explored a range of essential business topics including marketing, finance, networking, communication, leadership and problem-solving. The sessions were designed to help students build confidence, develop practical skills and gain a greater understanding of what it takes to turn an idea into a successful venture.
A highlight of the programme was the Business Fair at The Orchards Shopping Centre, where students had the opportunity to put their learning into practice. Engaging directly with members of the public, participants conducted market research, showcased their products and ideas, and gained invaluable experience in sales, customer engagement and business promotion.
“It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm, creativity and determination shown by all of the students throughout the programme,” said a spokesperson for Haywards Heath Town Council. “YEAHH provides young people with opportunities that go beyond the classroom, helping them build confidence, develop practical skills and realise their potential as future entrepreneurs and business leaders.”
One of the programme’s masterclass speakers, Sam J Rehan from Wellbeing & Ease Ltd, praised both the students and the organisers for the impact of the initiative. He said: “YEAHH is a brilliantly run programme that gives young people real-world business experience, practical skills and confidence. It encourages young people to believe in their ideas and abilities while developing business and leadership skills that are rarely taught in a classroom. The professionalism of the organisers and the enthusiasm of the students make it a genuinely valuable initiative for the local community.
The students were engaged, curious and willing to step outside their comfort zones, embracing new ideas and challenges. It was a pleasure to be involved and to see such a positive investment in the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders.”
The programme concluded with a celebration event where participants reflected on their experiences and received certificates recognising their achievements. Students reported increased confidence, improved business knowledge and a greater understanding of entrepreneurship as a result of taking part in the academy.
Haywards Heath Town Council would like to thank EGY Design for generously sponsoring this year’s programme. Their support helped make the initiative possible and demonstrates a commitment to investing in the development of young people and the future business community of Haywards Heath.
Sincere thanks are extended to the Haywards Heath Business Association, The Orchards Shopping Centre and all of the local business professionals who generously shared their time and expertise to support this year’s programme.
Following another successful year, plans are already being explored for the future development of YEAHH, ensuring even more young people have the opportunity to gain practical business experience and develop the skills needed to thrive in the modern world.
Anyone interested in taking part in future editions of the programme, either as a participant or as a supporting business, can contact Haywards Heath Town Council on 01444 455694 or email [email protected]. Further information will be announced on the Haywards Heath Town Council website in due course.
By Kelly Lewis
