JEDDAH: Jeddah Gov. Prince Mishaal bin Majed on Monday commended the efforts of young Saudi entrepreneurs and called on them to keep pace with the challenges of the modern economic and business world.Inaugurating the third edition of Jeddah Young Business Expo at the Jeddah International Exhibition Center, Prince Mishaal said he is proud of young Saudis who are determined to prove themselves. “This expo is the proof of the potential of our youth,” he said.Some 300 young business entrepreneurs are taking part in the four-day expo that is being held with the active support of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) and sponsored by major Saudi companies.“This expo aims to educate, inform and encourage young men and women, who are starting their own businesses and entering the free market.“It is part of the JCCI’s strategy to connect with young entrepreneurs and support them in their business efforts. The JCCI will also help them in providing essential support in running a successful business,” said Ziad Al-Bassam, a member of the JCCI and chairman of the event’s organizing committee.The youths participating in the expo are full of enthusiasm. They see it as an opportunity for future growth. Khloud Attar, a 25-year-old publisher and founder of the Jeddah-based Design Magazine, told Arab News that the expo is a great opportunity to recruit new talent and a chance to see what is new in business. She added that she sees the expo as a perfect venue to meet and network with other businessmen and businesswomen.The expo has brought together successful young businesspeople as well as those who have just started the business.
ACO, a newly formed company focused on petrochemicals and food industry, is a first time exhibitor. Its Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator Mohammad Shawan said his company was a first timer at the exhibition. Lots of people were coming to his stall showing interest in the business. “We expect that this expo will bring us new business,” he said.
Salma Radwan, a fashion designer and owner of a local ready-to-wear clothes shop, said she wanted to take advantage at this event to show her work and products to potential clients.
“This expo will also give my brand an exposure. My first line of clothing was released last year. This year we are also releasing a third line of clothing, so this expo gives us a chance similar to expos held abroad,” Radwan added.SAAB is the strategic sponsor of the event while Sedco and Alwan are the man sponsors.Hosam Alqurashi, Sedco’s director of marketing and communication, said his company has always been active in helping young Saudi in establishing their own business. As part of this policy Sedco has financed 300 medium-sized companies led by young entrepreneurs with a total capital of SR300 million – Arabnews
