On Friday I met with local young entrepreneurs to find out more about how the Prince's Trust Enterprise programme is supporting young people interested in self-employment to explore and test their ideas, and where appropriate, to start their own businesses.
Thanks to a rigorous programme offering training and long term mentoring support, the Prince's Trust has been very successful in enabling many thousands of young people to realise their dreams.
I was completely inspired by the skills and enthusiasm of those I met on Friday afternoon – and by their stories about how they didn’t give up on what they believed in.
Carlos Riestra and Caroline hold up the logo for Carlos' resteraunt
The people I met included Carlos Riestra (pictured right), who opened his Mexican street food restaurant Carlito Burrito in York Road just that afternoon.
I had a chance to sample the fare, which includes amazing burritos that I’d definitely recommend.
Carlos enrolled on the Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme three years ago, after deciding to turn his life around by launching his own business.
I also met Hair and Make Up Artist Nicky Smith, creator of Pretty Pout.
Nicky specialises in vintage looks and there’s some gorgeous examples on her website at www.prettypout.co.uk.
David Stewart, an up-and-coming magician has also had support from the Prince’s Trust.
His magic was completely astounding and left me convinced he could read minds!
Natalie Millerchip was the fourth entrepreneur I met.
Natalie has set up Crowns from Ashes, making unique jewellery from recycled paper, plastic bags and crisp packets.
The picture above shows Natalie and I at Carlos’s restaurant, and I’m wearing a stunning brooch that Natalie made, based on a design she developed for Remembrance Day.
With worryingly high levels of unemployment facing young people in Brighton and Hove, the Prince’s Trust inspires young people with another option – creating jobs through new enterprises.
I was delighted to have the opportunity to meet some of these people on Friday and I wish them all the best with their ventures.
Main image: Jeweller Natalie Millerchip with Caroline - both wearing brooches by Crowns from Ashes
Join The Discussion