ORANJESTAD, Aruba — More than 150 secondary school students took center stage as the entrepreneurship program BeYourOwnBoss concluded with its Final Pitch Event, giving young participants an opportunity to present innovative business ideas developed to address real-world challenges.
The program, organized by Qredits Aruba and Aruba Airport Authority, brought together students from MAVO and HAVO schools, encouraging them to think creatively, work collaboratively and develop practical entrepreneurial solutions.
During the competition, student teams designed projects and business concepts that could potentially be implemented within Aruba Airport Authority. The presentations highlighted a wide range of ideas aimed at improving operations, enhancing customer experiences and addressing future opportunities within the aviation sector.
A panel of judges composed of leaders from Aruba’s business and tourism industries evaluated the projects based on creativity, feasibility, presentation skills and overall impact.
In the MAVO category, the team Tropical Trunk from Het Schakel College earned first place. In the HAVO category, Parkichi, also representing Het Schakel College, captured the top award.
Organizers said the initiative is designed to cultivate entrepreneurial thinking, leadership skills and problem-solving abilities among Aruba’s youth. By challenging students to transform ideas into viable business concepts, the program seeks to prepare participants for future careers in business and innovation.
Since its launch, more than 500 students across Aruba have participated in BeYourOwnBoss, according to Qredits Aruba and Aruba Airport Authority. Organizers said the program continues to inspire a new generation of local entrepreneurs by providing hands-on experience and exposure to the realities of developing and presenting business ideas.
The event underscored the growing emphasis on entrepreneurship education in Aruba, where educators and business leaders increasingly view innovation and leadership as essential skills for the island’s future workforce.