Intilaaqah helps to nurture a generation of enterprise

To mark over a quarter of a century of inspiring young entrepreneurs around the world, Shell LiveWIRE has launched its new brochure "a generation of enterprise". This charts the successful development of the programme from its launch in the UK in 1982 as a measure to combat high levels of youth unemployment, to its position today as the world's leading youth enterprise programme.

Intilaaqah Oman is a member of the Shell LiveWIRE global network, which operates in 24 countries around the world. This network has provided over 5 million young people globally with information, advice and support to develop enterprising ideas and start their own businesses.

LiveWIRE is one of Royal Dutch Shell's Social Investment Programmes. It promotes enterprise and provides practical advice, training and ongoing support services to young people who want to develop enterprising ideas and start their own businesses.

Roxanne Decyk, Corporate Affairs Director, Royal Dutch Shell plc, said:

"LiveWIRE's global reach, coupled with its local roots, have provided a catalyst for many dynamic enterprises. For example, a small not-for-profit organisation that initially offered marketing support to 15 local craftswomen in Pakistan now helps more than 2,500 women. And in the UK, a one-man business that started out making a thousand lobster pots a year, now produces a thousand a week and employs over 100 people."

Said Abdullah Al Jufaili, Director, Intilaaqah Oman "In addition to its contribution to the success of the International programme, Intilaaqah Oman is making a real difference to young people in Oman. Since 1995, Intilaaqah has helped over 6099 nationals to explore the option of starting a business, and has helped over 2,500 of businesses to start up."

One of the many entrepreneurs to have benefited from the Intilaaqah programme is Dr. Firas Al Abduwani. His business, Hussam Technology, is a pioneering Information, Communication and Technology value added distributor covering the Middle East region and is based in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.

Said Al Abduwani:

"I have received continuous support and encouragement from Intilaaqah. It's great to see Shell through the Intilaaqah program helping so many nationals in Oman and around the world to achieve a brighter future."