Westminster Enterprise Network (WeNetwork) celebrated a successful mixer event on 22 November 2023, providing a platform for ambitious students and recent graduates to pitch their business ideas, with a total of £12,000 in funding awarded to 21 projects.
WeNetwork is the University of Westminster’s entrepreneurial network, bringing together students and recent graduates with industry to develop their entrepreneurial skills, engage in self-employment work and create businesses.
The mixer brought together participants from the Start-Up 101, Beyond Start-Up 101 and Freelance Essentials programmes and gave students and recent graduates a valuable opportunity to network and establish meaningful connections.
Silvi Panchal, graduate of the Interior Architecture MA course, said: “I am very grateful for the opportunity from WeNetwork to participate in this mixer event where I got to practise pitching. It was a really great experience that helped me to self-reflect. The funding that I was awarded will be very helpful for what I have planned for the year for my furniture design collection.”
Ali Lubulwa, graduate of Biochemical Sciences MSc course, said: “I thought the mixer was amazing. It was great to meet and connect with so many different people as well as to get access to the funding. I kept wondering about how I was going to get my business idea to the next stage and now, with the money that I won at the mixer, I am ready to develop my business. I really am thankful for this opportunity.”
Miguel Noite, Marketing and Events Manager at WeNetwork, commented: “The success of the mixer event underscores our dedication to nurturing entrepreneurial talent. We are proud to provide a platform that not only empowers participants with funding but also fosters meaningful connections and experiences. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to continuing our mission of shaping the next generation of successful entrepreneurs.”
WeNetwork remains committed to supporting students and recent graduates in acquiring industry-relevant enterprise and entrepreneurial skills. The Start-Up 101 and Freelance Essentials programmes offer a comprehensive package, including expert-led workshops, office hours with industry professionals, networking opportunity and funding support.
Find out more about the opportunities available from WeNetwork.
