Sixth Form Student Takes Action Against Rising Unemployment
Date posted:Thursday 19th July 2012
Rising unemployment rates have prompted young entrepreneur and sixth form student, Emily Edwards, to become a mentor and promoter, helping other people to achieve their business goals.
Emily (17), from Tankerton, felt motivated to take action after studying a topic on starting up a business as part of her Economics & Business AS Level at Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar School in Canterbury.
“My initial inspiration for the idea was simply the fact that due to such high rates of unemployment and the economy the way it is, I know that lots of people are simply turning to the idea of setting up their own business as employment is so scarce! Especially that part of the population which is my age” said Emily.
Emily is particularly keen to work with young people who may have dropped out of school or who are finding it hard to secure employment: “I’d like to hear from people contemplating setting up their own business, I can offer them initial support and help them carry it through as far as I can.”
Emily is also involved with organising events that give local people an opportunity to either sell or promote their products. Much of her work is focussed on Herne Bay where townspeople have been quick to make use of her drive and enthusiasm.
As well as planning a music event involving local bands on the pier with Julian Jennings, Chairman of Herne Bay Pier Trust, Emily is also currently booking local bands for the rescheduled summer fete at Herne Bay Memorial Park on 28 July, 12pm – 4pm. She’s also working with Tanya Ryder who runs Breakawayz dance classes at Herne Bay High School, Jason Hollingsworth from Bay Guide, the Herne Bay Promo Team, Beach Creative and local artist, Bobi Sanders who’s running workshops at Beach Creative’s new centre in Beach Street.
“I’m keen to hear from bands who want publicity,” said Emily. “And any local enterprises really – I’m asked to source all kinds of people and services through the course of my work. Recently I’ve needed to find cheerleaders, bands, photographers and caterers.”
Emily is currently studying A Levels in Sociology, Economics & Business Studies and Textiles and is planning on studying a Business Management & Marketing degree at university next Autumn.
“Even though my business has just taken off, it’s already been a valuable experience and I’m quite overwhelmed at how much positive feedback I’ve been getting from the clients I’m already working with. I’m really happy that the service I can offer is being appreciated.”
Emily is enjoying working with people in Herne Bay: “It’s exciting to see what’s developing in the town and I think more people should be getting involved. If the people in the town want Herne Bay to become more of a success, they need to get involved. The only way to make change happen is for everyone to get involved and to work together as a team.”
Emily can be contacted via her website at www.facebook.com/emilyedwardsmarketing or via her Twitter account @marketmeemily
