"I'm an Entrepreneur" campaign kicks off

The campaign kicked off on Sunday at the Willayat of Samail in the Dakhiliyah Region of the Sultanate of Oman. It consists of a series of workshops, an opportunity to meet with local entrepreneurs and the campaign short essay competition.

Abdullah Al Jufaili, Director Intilaaqah explained, "Students are encouraged to visit Intilaaqah's portal to learn more about the competition and how to participate. An online application form is designed to help students submit their short essays. Our aim is to nurture the mindset of students and help them get information about entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship in Oman. We are targeting students in grade 11 and 1 from all schools in the sultanate."

A number of local entrepreneurs will be showcasing their businesses to the students. Zaeema Al Azri, who owns the "Promising Generation Nursery" in the Willayat of Samail commented "I am delighted to have been selected by Shell to participate in this important community initiative. Indeed, I am very proud to share my experience of setting up my own business with youngsters from my community. I was overwhelmed with the response I have received from the students."

"This campaign is part of our community awareness program. Yearly we conduct at least 10 awareness sessions, more than 30 training courses or workshops and an annual award ceremony for best young entrepreneur. To date we have trained 6790 Omanis on various business skills. Our records show that more than 40% of them are still managing and running their own businesses. Intilaaqah has received support from leading public/private sector organizations. It is indeed exciting to witness the growth of young entrepreneurs in our local community," smiled Abdullah.