Engaged, inspired, supported: GEW2020 ignites entrepreneurial sparks

Overcoming pandemic blues and circumnavigating social distancing on scaled events, GEW2020 at the UWTSD conquered the limitations and succeeded in facilitating a breadth of entrepreneurship sessions across its campuses writes UWTSD's Felicity Healey-Benson.

A fine line up of entrepreneurial success, including stories drawn from its very own enterprising alumni. Invaluable, real-world context, online interactive sessions. Each one, authentically infused with tried and tested tips and guidance. Delivered with buckets of enthusiasm, honesty and flair. Entrepreneurs, students, educators, businesses, business leaders, employees, all gathered together to participate in workshop activities to promote and celebrate entrepreneurial activity. The opportunity was taken by many to develop the ability to innovate, imagine and create.

Big Ideas Wales Role Models contributed many session speakers, keen to encourage students to open their minds to new ideas, to consider the opportunities gained from an enterprise pathway. Real business people with inspiring stories sharing their insight and learning. Uplifting and inspired, whilst also fully grounded in the realism of an entrepreneur's life. From practical advice on safeguarding cash and managing risks by Manjit Biant to the essentials of an effective knowledge management strategy with Gareth Harry of GR Digital.

Opening the week entrepreneurship festival was digital marketing expert Austin Walters, bringing employability skills to life. Just one of a bank of intrapreneurs and entrepreneurs who gave of their time and knowledge to share practical strategies to navigate a business through a period of unprecedented change. Dance School Owner, Sarah Gittin and Sarah McHarg, the owner of Super Calming, just two examples of many sharing their journeys turning personal passions into business success.

Ayesha Pontin, a creative practitioner, shared insider knowledge and insight on generating income through a variety of licenses and streams, opening sources and avenues (e.g. PPL, Performing Rights Society and Contracts). Incredibly useful for students, possibly reluctant or fearful of following their dream into the creative industries. Similarly, Alison Branagan Creative Consultancy sliced through the 'Art of Networking' to give graduates that killer boost.

Freelance actor, writer and director, Ioan Hefin turned hearts and minds around regarding embracing a theatre, film, television and radio pathway, tendering clear and honest advice on personal projects. Jay Smith Company Director at The Stage Y Llwyfan Limited, shared the challenges and inspiration that led to his theatre school success.

Timed with the launch of the week-long festival was the release of the UWTSD's Working It Out' guide for freelancers, packed full of tips from UWTSD entrepreneurial alumni. Feedback already confirming it is essential reading for the modern graduate.

Thanks go out to all involved in the planning, administration and delivery of this high -octane online festival of learning and exchange. So many business role models and alumni gave of their time, clearly aware that graduates are the future lifeblood. It is clear there is both an appetite and healthy respect for the opportunity and challenge of enterprise and entrepreneurship, and that passion, creativity and robust support can help set you up, and on your way!

Further info on our events can be accessed from the International Institute for Creative Entrepreneurial Development

https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/iiced/

Note to Editor

Felicity Healey-Benson is IICED’s Entrepreneurial Learning Champion & Academic Staff on HR & Leadership, Fellow HEA at UWTSD's The Institute of Management and Health, and the founder of EmergentThinkers.Com

Further Information

Rebecca Davies

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Email: Rebecca.Davies@uwtsd.ac.uk