Assured Events MD mentors Dragons of the future

In giving his time to support Stockport Borough Council’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year competition, Karl Perry, managing director at leading Cheshire event management company, Assured Events, has been amazed by the talent of the team of enthusiastic entrepreneurs at Bramhall’s Queensgate Primary School.
 
Ahead of a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style final to be held in front of 500 guests at Stockport Town Hall on 21 July, Karl has helped the talented 14-strong team of young marketers formulate a credible business plan, financial accounts and a marketing plan for their self-designed range of customised tee-shirts.  Each carries a slogan that would appeal to young people of their own age.  He explains:  “I’ve been amazed by how much energy and creativity these children have and already, you can see that some of them have got a great eye for a product and a sharp mind for business.”
 
Deputy Head, Helen Lee, and teacher, Lisa Makinson, are helping to co-ordinate matters from the school side and it seems that the pupils’ company, Junior Fives, has taken on a life of its own.  “Our pupils are so enthusiastic and it’s us that have to keep up with them!” says Helen.  “They are ruthless in the Boardroom and aren’t afraid of making decisions.”
 
Whilst keen not to give too much away about the intricacies of Junior Fives’ business plan, Karl is quick to praise the professionalism of the team:  “The children are just so competitive and adaptable; both essential qualities if they are to become successful entrepreneurs,” he says.
 
“They are a strong-minded group but they also recognise the need for teamwork and have adopted roles that suit their various strengths.  I have just been incredibly impressed and can see some tremendous raw talent here.  The energy, creativity and determination they have shown in whipping their proposition into shape has been tremendous and while my input has always been there when required, I’ve never had to get too involved.”
 
With former Apprentice runner-up, Ruth Badger, on-hand to present the eventual winners with the coveted Young Entrepreneurs of the Year Trophy on 21 July, Karl, Helen & Lisa are sure that the whole experience has been extremely worthwhile.  He concludes:  “The effort and dedication on show has been first class July 21st promises to be a great occasion which I’m sure all of the children from the various schools involved will enjoy immensely and for my part, it has been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to be involved with the whole process.”