Youth Practice Enterprise Program Stage 1 Concludes with Mock Investment Pitches

The SWEP (Schoolwide Extracurricular Program) held in Seoul from September 15 to December 8, 2023, at Seoul Foreign School was a meaningful experience for students, centering around the Practical Enterprise Program developed by KoreaPEN. Over 10 weeks, participants learned about the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, and teamwork and embarked on a journey from creating a company logo to brainstorming innovative products and services. 

The program started with an exploration of the basics of entrepreneurship, laying a solid foundation for the students. Through engaging workshops and practical exercises, participants gained insights into the complexity of starting and managing a business. This included understanding market dynamics, identifying potential challenges, and developing strategies for success. 

Working in diverse teams, they experienced firsthand the challenges and rewards of effective collaboration. From ideation to execution, students learned the value of leveraging each team member's strengths to achieve common goals. 

A crucial aspect of any successful business is its brand identity. Students learned about the significance of branding and applied this knowledge by creating a unique logo for their respective enterprises. This hands-on experience allowed them to appreciate the role of branding in establishing a company's visual identity and making a lasting impression on consumers. 

One of the highlights of the program was the students' exploration of product and service ideation. Through brainstorming sessions, they generated creative and marketable ideas, showcasing their ability to think outside the box. The process involved identifying target audiences, understanding market needs, and conceptualizing products or services that addressed those needs. 

Undoubtedly, the pinnacle of the program was the Virtual Investment Pitch, where students put their entrepreneurial skills to the test. Armed with their product ideas and business plans, they presented in front of judges, aiming to attract potential investments. This experience not only cultivated their public speaking abilities but also instilled confidence in presenting and defending their ideas—a critical skill set for their future career. 

The SWEP Fall 2023 program not only equipped students with practical knowledge but also fostered a mindset of entrepreneurship from a young age. Learning to pitch ideas, attract investments, and navigate the business landscape are invaluable skills that will serve these young entrepreneurs well in their future careers. The program's emphasis on practical experience and real-world application positions the participants for success as they embark on their professional journeys.