Church raising new generation of entrepreneurs

One of the largest Pentecostal churches in the country is equipping young people to start their own businesses.

Jesus House, in London, launched its new social enterprise, the Barnet Youth Business Incubator (BaYBI) on Thursday.

The project, based in North Finchley, is being run in partnership with youth charity Elevation Networks and Barnet Council.

It will support around a hundred young people between the ages of 16 and 24 who are interested in running their own business.

Jesus House is especially looking to attract unemployed graduates to the scheme, as well as young people on the fringes of society and NEETs (Not in Education, Employment or Training).

BaYBI will teach people practical skills, from how to register a business and open a business bank account, to how to manage their PR and marketing, and find suppliers.

Ayo Adedoyin, Head of Community at Jesus House hopes those who join the project will go on to provide employment for other young people.

"We are really excited about BaYBI. Jesus House exists to make a positive difference in people's lives and the BaYBI project is one way in which we can do this," he said.

"It's our hope that the BaYBI will enable a generation of young people to fully develop their God given talents, fulfil their potential and make a valuable contribution to society."

Kaio de Sousa, 22, BaYBI manager said: "We have already lined up budding entrepreneurs wanting to set up various businesses which include a web design consultancy, a music studio, a hair dressing saloon, an employment agency and a leaflet distribution company - this list is set to grow once we launch and start working with more young people."