Aspiring entrepreneurs, freelancers and innovators took part in three days of in-person and online workshops and networking to help them take forward their Big Ideas.
Westminster Enterprise Network (WeNetwork), the University of Westminster’s Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Hub, recently delivered its highly successful Big Idea Bootcamps, a three-day series of workshops designed to empower and prepare aspiring entrepreneurs, freelancers and innovators. The event, held at the Indian YMCA in London, brought together a diverse group of more than 140 participants eager to learn, network and work on their ideas.
The sessions featured a line-up of engaging workshops led by industry experts, covering a wide range of topics including how to create a business model canvas, storytelling and pitching, and getting started with a social enterprise.
Leading the Idea category was Maxim Cramer, who runs Mennenia, a coaching and consulting business for female founders in tech, along with Clelia Bevillard, Senior Student Enterprise Manager at Westminster. Matt Dowling, founder of the Freelancer Club, a creative freelance community helping companies ethically connect with top freelance talent, ran the Freelance category, while the Accelerate category was run by Amit Patel, Creative Director of Experience Haus, a design and technology training provider.
The students also had the opportunity to hear from guest speakers Julian Boaity, founder of the natural and vegan skincare brand, Yendy Skin, and Laura Marney, Programmes Director at Impact Hub London, which connects entrepreneurs and innovators to large organisations, partners, investors and the public sector.
Networking was also a key component of the Bootcamps, providing participants with ample opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, mentors, and potential collaborators. The vibrant atmosphere fostered meaningful conversations, idea exchange and new connections.
Miguel Noite, Marketing and Events Manager at WeNetwork, said: "We are thrilled with the success of our Big Idea Bootcamps. Seeing participants gain valuable knowledge, skills, and connections that will help them pursue their entrepreneurial dreams is truly rewarding. I can't wait to see them pitch live at the semi-final".
Rebecca Veliu, a participant from the Bootcamps, added: “What I hope to achieve from the Big Idea Competition is to scale my business. I already have a few clients, but I am hoping that will grow.”
Book a free ticket to the live Big Idea semi-final at the University of Westminster on the 14 June on Eventbrite.
