Training and inspiring youth vital to business

Port Hedland’s Chamber of Commerce have kick-started a year of business development in the region with the first of its Business Breakfast events last week.

The event, hosted by Landing Resort Port Hedland last Wednesday, included speakers from the Youth Involvement Council and Njamal People’s Trust and enticed dozens of local business leaders to discuss indigenous business.

The event is held monthly to brief the local business community on issues and trends affecting regional economic growth in the Hedland area, as well as establishing new business connections.

Njamal People’s Trust general manager John Van Der Ende said the company was expanding to upgrade members’ skills, support family businesses and train locals. “Njamal is focusing on employing people in their own businesses or though the mining companies we deal with,” he said.

“We look at how we can help residents get the skills to be independent — we assist with Njamal ranger, security, carbon sequestration and surveying businesses.

Youth Involvement Council’s Rosie Cowley said now was the time for business to inspire and assist youth in the region.

“If you change the heart of business, that will change the next generation — (the) youth need to be proud and see the next level of employment and leadership,” she said.

“(The) impact of younger generation’s education is the key — promoting business to not depend on external funding.”