City students learn from entrepreneurs at workshop day

A group of Cork city secondary school students gained valuable real-world insight into entrepreneurship during a Student Enterprise Programme Business Plan Writing Day Workshop held recently at MTU in Bishopstown.

A highlight was the contribution of two accomplished entrepreneurs who shared their personal business journeys with students at the event on Thursday 15 January. Frank Brennan, CEO & Owner of Republic of Work, spoke about establishing and growing a business, the importance of collaboration and the realities of entrepreneurship in today’s business environment. His talk provided students with a practical understanding of what it takes to turn an idea into a viable enterprise.

Students also heard from Gemma Kingston, Founder of The Family Edit, who shared insights into brand development, innovation and resilience. She highlighted the importance of adaptability, creativity and clear decision-making when building and sustaining a business.

Both speakers engaged openly with students, answering questions and offering advice that linked enterprise theory with real-life experience, making entrepreneurship tangible and accessible for young people.

Dr Niall O’Keeffe, Head of the Local Enterprise Office Cork City, said: “Opportunities like this are invaluable for students. Hearing directly from successful entrepreneurs helps to bring enterprise education to life and shows young people that starting a business is achievable with the right skills, mindset and support.”

The workshop reflects the continued commitment of the Student Enterprise Programme and Local Enterprise Office Cork City to fostering entrepreneurial thinking, confidence and practical business skills among students across Cork city schools.

For more information contact: Cathy Fitzgibbon, Cork City Student Enterprise Programme Coordinator. Email: info@corkschoolsenterprise.ie.