Across Western Australia, young people are already identifying problems around them and taking action. They are creating solutions, testing ideas, building projects and finding ways to create value for others and their communities. While these ideas may not always begin as businesses or large-scale ventures, they often begin with curiosity, initiative and a willingness to try something different.
The Young Innovators Award, part of the WA Innovator of the Year Awards, exists to recognise and celebrate exactly this type of thinking and action. Now in its second year, the award highlights young people who are using creativity, problem solving and initiative to make a meaningful difference.
Every applicant receives opportunities to grow
This year, all award applicants will be invited to participate in a free workshop series called Building the Entrepreneur Within, delivered by local founder, entrepreneur and educator Christian Bien.
Across a series of practical workshops, participants will have the opportunity to better understand themselves as emerging entrepreneurs while building skills and connections that extend beyond the awards process. Participants will explore:
- Their strengths, values and entrepreneurial identity
- How to build networks and support systems
- How to better understand the people and problems they want to solve
- Practical tools and personalised support to continue developing their ideas
For finalists, the journey continues through a dedicated masterclass series designed to help sharpen their design thinking, refine their pitch and strengthen their confidence in communicating ideas. Finalists will also have opportunities to connect with mentors and access events and speaking opportunities across Western Australia’s innovation community.
Together, these opportunities recognise that entrepreneurial journeys do not start or end with an application form or an award announcement. They grow through learning, support, community and opportunities to continue developing.
A big thank you to the Fogarty Foundation for funding the workshops and helping invest in the next generation of WA innovators.
