Students looking to enter the business world have received a hands-on introduction thanks to the Logan Small Business Conference & Showcase.
The voluntary committee, consisting of six local small business owners, created the initiative in collaboration with local schools, offering business-minded students the opportunity to attend through business sponsorships.
The Business Cadet initiative encourages students studying trade and business-related subjects and aims to support young entrepreneurs by providing value, insight, and opportunities to stay and work in Logan.
Business owner and one of the conference organisers, Gina Forde, said the program was designed to “give business owners the chance to see what young people can offer.”
“We had the opportunity to bring two worlds together in a safe and inclusive environment,” Gina said.
“We want young people to feel like they’re taken seriously by acknowledging and recognising their value within the business community.”
During the September conference, students assisted with event logistics, including managing lucky draws, setting up facilities, and even taking to the microphone to introduce themselves to a room of over 120 local business attendees.
“The students really stepped up, conducted themselves professionally, and got involved in everything,” Gina said.
“It was inspiring to see their passion and drive.”
The initiative also seeks to challenge misconceptions among older business owners about the value of youth contributions.
“Let’s not patronise these kids,” Gina said.
“They have knowledge of new technology that some of us older business owners may not entirely have a grasp on.
“They can take us places if we give them the chance.”
With over 100 business owners attending the bi-annual conference, the initiative showcased the potential for growth in Logan with the next generation of entrepreneurs.
“When I was chatting to these kids, they all had dreams, and all of them involved taking a business idea from Logan to overseas,” Gina said.
“Logan is growing at a rapid pace, and we want our kids to see that Logan is a great place to do business.
“There are so many opportunities here, and we’re literally walking the walk for them.”
As the Business Cadet initiative prepares to kick off again in 2025, Gina believes the connection between Logan small businesses and the cadets will continue to strengthen the Logan community.
“Our driving factor is collaboration over competition, through connections,” Gina said.
