A CHANGING OF THE GUARDS

A changing of the guards, or perhaps a little respite, seems to be on the minds of social enterprise stalwarts as they herald in the young social entrepreneurs through the development of networks, enterprises and skills building activities.



Many are represented at the Conference including SAGE, a global movement that engages high school students in developing social enterprises. It’s mission?


To help create the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders whose innovations and social enterprises address our world’s major unmet needs.



Two young leaders making their own mark were recognised last night through the first Social Enterprise Alliance Innovation and Leadership Awards for young people, announced at the Young Professionals Party held at the popular nightclub Temple. Itself a social enterprise.


Suzanne Smith has been consulting in the area of SE for many years, has helped many ventures and is being recognised for her work in supporting the sector.


Jodi Rosenbaum founded a SE in Boston with a book store/cafe/gathering place that provides employment programs and a new chance for young people. Where others saw a lost cause, Jodi saw an opportunity.


In talking with the incoming Chair of the local San Francisco chapter for SEA, Antonio Aguilera, there is a clear focus on engaging, inspiring and recognising young people in this growing global industry.


This sentiment was mimicked by Jerr Boschee , interim President and CEO of the Social Enterprise Alliance.

‘There is an energized group of young people excited about Social Enterprise. They are ready to go out there and change the world.'

It’s an optimistic and reassuring thought, given concern about so called youth apathy and lack of volunteering and involvement from young people in communities. I look forward to hearing more from these young entrepreneurs and the relationships that develop between them and the more seasoned practitioners.