Dissemination of the InnoVenture: Words from our participants (part VI)

InnoVenture: You(th) in Business an Experience

Nikolais (Nicky) Giannikopoulou

As the echoes of InnoVenture: You(th) in Business still resonate in my mind, I feel compelled to share the transformative journey that unfolded during this remarkable project in Predeal, Romania.

My adventure began even before the official starting date, as the organizers graciously offered us the chance to explore the captivating capital. Little did I know that this prelude would set the tone for an experience beyond my expectations.

Romania, with its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, became more than a backdrop; it became a canvas for learning and growth. Beyond the capital, the project took us on a journey that allowed us to delve into the heart of Romanian culture, leaving an indelible mark on our collective experience.

The early days were dedicated to fostering teamwork and breaking away from the comfort of familiar faces. The essence was to adapt, collaborate, and transcend national boundaries. This transition proved seamless, as we not only became teammates but fast friends, forming bonds that would define the success of our collective endeavor.

Team dynamics set the stage for the real challenge: crafting innovative business ideas. The project divided us into eight teams, each assigned a unique theme ranging from arts and fashion to customer service, finance, travel, and medical domains. It was not just about competition but collaboration, with teams exchanging ideas and insights to elevate each other's concepts.

Our entrepreneurial journey began with the creation of team names and logos, establishing the identity that would carry us forward. Initial presentations served not only as introductions but as a platform for cross-pollination of ideas, a testament to the collaborative spirit that permeated the project.

The depth of our work intensified as we tackled fundamental business aspects: funding strategies, target demographics, potential team structures, and market competitors. The innovative thinking that fueled our business plans culminated in compelling presentations and advertising videos that showcased the essence of our entrepreneurial visions.

In calling this experience a 'project,' I find the term woefully inadequate. InnoVenture was an immersion into a world where every moment felt significant, where the place, the people, and the organization converged to create an environment that transcended the ordinary. Guidance was paramount, and it played a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes of each team.

Leaving Romania, I carried not just memories but a newfound confidence in navigating the entrepreneurial landscape. The experience provided a springboard for entering the world of entrepreneurship with a treasure trove of ideas and a network of potential partners and associates.

In conclusion, InnoVenture was more than a project; it was a catalyst for personal and collective growth. It dismantled fears, instilled confidence, and illuminated a path forward. It reinforced the understanding that the challenges and worries faced by the youth are shared, but with the right support and participation in life-changing programs, a world of possibilities unfolds. This is not an end but the beginning of a journey into the realm of entrepreneurship, armed with knowledge, experience, and a network that extends beyond borders.

Presentation: here