Nine aspiring young entrepreneurs have graduated from the sixth annual Summer Student Entrepreneur Programme presented by the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation.

Students who received certificates at an awards and graduation ceremony were Jahmir Celestine, The Nail Medic; Teneik Wallen, Dolled By Neiks; Essence Davis, Oh My Cake Bakery; Jazarah Codrington-Edmead, Serene Scenes; Marcus Simons-Rewan, Special Misfits; Nico Bean, Flow by Nico; Shammai Smith, Forever Green; Zanna Minors, Braidz by Za; and Zea Swainson, Paintz.

Students presented an overview of their business and spoke about how the SSEP had helped to prepare them as entrepreneurs.

Nico Bean said: “It’s been great, and I would highly recommend this programme to anyone who wants to start a business or grow their existing business. The support from both the BEDC and my fellow members was immense.

“It’s been great learning about business and networking with my peers. I’ve created friendships and potential collaborations in the future.”

The students, who are aged between 14 and 21, earned a liveable wage and saved funds as an alternative to securing summer employment for a period of eight weeks.

The BEDC said the programme was designed to promote a culture of enterprise and entrepreneurship as a viable career option and inspire and equip young people to learn and succeed through enterprise.

A competitive element is included in the programme.

In addition to money earned selling products and services, students competed to earn the most revenue.

Zanna Minors was the first-place winner and was awarded $1,000.

Zea Swainson was second and won $750; Shammai Smith was third and won $500.

The BEDC said the nine entrepreneurs pulled in more than $17,000 in six weeks of sales.

Students were awarded special certificates to reflect their hard work throughout the programme: Best Business Branding, Zea Swainson; “Get Up & Go”, Zanna Minors; Innovation, Marcus Simons-Rewan; Most Growth, Shammai Smith; Best Business Pivot, Jazarah Codrington-Edmead; Best Social-Media Presence, Nico Bean; and Creativity, Essence Davis.

The BEDC said students were able to showcase and sell their products and services, thanks to the support of several entities.

The City of Hamilton waived vending fees for the Meet & Greet on the City Hall lawn.

Washington Properties sponsored a free spot in Washington Mall and the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce waived fees at Harbour Nights.

Deshun Simmons, the programme co-ordinator, said: “I am very proud of each student. I have seen tremendous growth within all of them.

“The programme’s goal is not just to assist participants with earning money over the summer but also to impart an entrepreneurial mindset that will assist them as they prepare for their futures working in the business arena or as entrepreneurs.”