Saturday, 11th April 2015 will remain a memorable day for me. I attended the event organized by Cim group and Junior Achievement Mascareignes in Port Louis. It was no doubt my first steps into the world of business.
The other participants came from various colleges of the island. The program was organized in a friendly atmosphere conducive to the development of new skills in an innovative manner. No lectures here!
The creativity exercise enabled me to learn more about team building. Different participants became partners with the same objectives! We had to build an Eiffel tower within certain parameters. My team presented the best Eiffel tower- tall, strong and beautiful, and we won the ice-breaking exercise! Then, followed more specialized exercises with the engagement of teams and motivators from Cim in the preparation of the business challenge presentations.
The theme my team worked on was ‘youth-marketing’. Our discussion was centered on the financial problems faced by those in early adulthood. It seemed tough at first but with the help of facilitators, we were soon ‘entrepreneurs’ of Cim Group discussing and proposing new ideas and opinions- a real brainstorming session.
Considering the scoring rubric which included the Relevance and Business Plan Concept, Presentation skills, Creativity and Innovation and Replicability, my team and I made our final presentation before the jury. I could not believe my ears when the announcement was made. Our presentation won the day! We were each awarded a shield, a certificate of participation and a Galaxy gift voucher of Rs8000. It was unexpected and just fabulous.
One should not forget the input of specialists who coached and helped us channel our ideas especially giving us management techniques. I also have a special thought for all the different resource persons who gave us a warm welcome and a princely treatment in terms of security and hospitality. The contribution and the professionalism of the people involved were excellent. Special thanks to JA Mascareignes for giving me, this unique opportunity to build my personality and enrich my knowledge of the business world. New friends were made and I have been able to learn the value of socializing in work conditions. A day full of fun but dedicated to learning!
Mohung Jabeer, Student of Phoenix SSS Boys
