Despite Saturday’s adverse weather, people from across the wider Xanthi area (with young people making up the majority) honoured with their presence the event “Young People and Entrepreneurship”, co-organised by the Europe Direct Xanthi European Information Centre, the Employment and Careers Structure of the Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi Tech Lab and the Democritus University of Thrace.
The event was opened, on behalf of the Democritus University of Thrace, by the Scientific Coordinator of Europe Direct Xanthi, Mr Panteleimon Botsaris, and the Vice-Rector of the University, Ms Maria Michalopoulou, who spoke about the activities of the university and its various structures and presented Medilab@Open Innovation Actions and the University’s Incubator, two programmes expected to start in the near future with the aim of strengthening entrepreneurship in our area.
The baton then passed to MEP Ms Eva Kaili, who pleasantly surprised those present with her down-to-earth manner. Among other things, she spoke about the efforts of our representatives in the European Parliament to secure equal treatment for Greece with the other EU Member States in various areas such as digital access and the liberalisation of the online market, as well as the ways in which Europe, through the European Parliament, can support the business efforts of Greek citizens. She then gave the floor to the audience and willingly answered their questions.
The need for all of us to take part in the upcoming European elections was the central message of the short talk by the Press Officer of the European Parliament Office in Greece, Mr Kostas Tsoutsoplidis.
In the final part of the day’s presentations, representatives of two successful start-ups, Mr Tzanetos of Thessaloniki-based Apifon and Mr Nikou of Kavala-based Classter, described how they started, the difficulties they faced and how they managed to grow their innovative businesses during the hard years of the preceding crisis.
It should also be noted that the pre-event workshops on web and mobile app development were held successfully, with speakers Mr Stavros Kounis and Mr Orfeas Romaidis sharing valuable insights with the young people who attended.
Attendees enjoyed the power of modern technology, as they were able to print and collect their own special badge, with their personal details and useful instructions, at the entrance to the hall, and to keep up to date with the event at all times through a dedicated mobile app. The event as a whole was a success, and the distinguished panel gave attendees information, advice and plenty of food for thought.
ena Development Consultants, always keen to support anything that develops and promotes people and entrepreneurship in the wider area where it operates, was among the event’s sponsors.
