Shortlist for YBI Entrepreneur competition announced

31 Aug '09

3 min read

The competition, which is now in its third year, celebrates the success of young entrepreneurs around the world – the achievements of whom are helping to grow local communities, stimulate job creation and provide essential products and services. Young people that have been supported by the global network led by Youth Business International – spanning some 39 countries – are eligible to enter the competition.

The shortlisted entrepreneurs range across 11 countries and a variety of industries, from mushroom growing to green tourism.

The winners of each category will be announced on 16 November on the first day of Global Entrepreneurship Week. The overall YBI Entrepreneur of the Year will be announced on the same day and will be selected by a high-profile judging panel. The general public will also be able to vote for the People's Choice award, which will be open during the run-up to Global Entrepreneurship Week.

Journey to Enterprise category:
For those who have overcome particularly tough challenges in setting up their business
- Mustapha Abdul Kadar Mohamadu, Murshida Gift and Fashion Company, Sri Lanka: A manufacturer of leather bags and purses who has rebuilt his business after the 2004 Tsunami.
- Fadi Elobra, Duroos, Israel: The founder of a learning centre for underprivileged Arab youth.
- Daniel Matheri, Mbao Craft, Kenya: A designer and manufacturer of furniture, he also trains young people in carpentry.
- Juan Ramon Nunez, The Light of Sound, Argentina: Runs a community radio station to benefit the local area; also runs a sound and lighting company.

Environmentally Sustainable category:For those whose businesses help advance environmental principles
- Sarala Bastian, Arokia Foods, India: A mushroom grower and distributor who has helped others to set up similar schemes.
- Robert Mitchell, Pure Services, Scotland: Provides environmentally friendly IT recycling for business.
- Jorge Alberto Noverón, TresDe Arquitectura, Mexico: An architect who incorporates environmentally friendly designs in his buildings.

Female category:For women who have succeeded as entrepreneurs and acted as a role model
- Ghada Ba-ageel, Ghada Al-Medina Autism Centre, Saudi Arabia: Founder of a day-care centre specialising in support for autistic children and their families.
- Oksana Usanova, Rural Green Tourism Services, Ukraine: A developer of green tourism in her local region.
- Linet Indiazi, Ness Hair and Beauty Parlour, Kenya: Founder of a hair and beauty salon that provides employment and teaching to the local community.

Innovation category:
For those who have created innovative products or services in manufacturing or technology
- Mouneer Al-Kojak, Ibn Sina Pharmaceutical Software, Syria: A pioneer in developing tailored software for pharmaceutical businesses.
- Georgi Dichev, Future Media Ltd., Bulgaria: A developer of specialised computer services, including 3-D imaging and web development.

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