Applications for nominations for the inaugural  2017 National Youth Entrepreneurship Awards are now open.

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Youth and Sports, Laisenia Tuitubou said the ministry would host this awards annually as they encourage and reward entrepreneurship among youths in Fiji.

“We hope to harness the creative abilities of young people, help spark entrepreneurial instincts and actions creating new business opportunities,” said Mr Tuitubou

He said the ministry was always proud of individuals and youth clubs who were innovative and had created small enterprises for themselves.

The ministry has partnered with the Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation for this event which is scheduled for May 26.

Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation president Himen Chandra said the federation was happy to be part of this national event.

Mr Chandra said the awards recognises youths and the efforts they put forward in trying to make ends meet not only for their family but for their communities.

There will be two categories with 16 awards. The prize money for the main category awards is $30,000.

The award encourages nominations of school age youths who have business ideas they have yet to bring to life.

The deadline for submitting nominations is April 17.

The forms will be available at the divisional youth offices around the country and the online version is available at the ministry’s website: www.youth.gov.fj and their Facebook page.

The launch was held at the Ministry of youth and sports conference room in Waimanu Road, Suva yesterday.

MINIMUM CRITERIA FOR

NOMINEES:

l               Must be business owners (individuals/groups/family business) in any industry

l               Aged between 15-35

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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