The Young Business Mind Awards culminates in a Gala Awards night on the 12th of November and will feature a speaker who has a deep understanding of youth entrepreneurship and innovation. This year, the speaker and MC of the event will be Ryan Muir, CEO of RAM Manufacturing.
Ryan grew up in Sydney and Port Macquarie completing his apprenticeship in the flooring industry before settling in Newcastle to begin his academic career. As an early leaver of high school Ryan started at the University of Newcastle completing an open foundation degree before moving on to study a Bachelors in Business.
Since 2021, Ryan has passionately dedicated himself to addressing critical issues within the flooring industry and tackling Australia’s waste plastics problem through the commercialization of Echidna Strip, a durable and sustainable alternative for carpet installation that transforms plastic waste into valuable construction materials.
Ryan’s commitment to confronting national challenges is matched by his deep appreciation for the Hunter region’s rich industrial legacy. Empowering the next generation with a can-do attitude while fostering a strong connection to country is vital to ensuring prosperity for the many generations to come.
With fresh memory of the challenges neurodiverse students face within the classroom, supporting the YBMA is a way for Ryan to channel his experience as a high school dropout turned qualified tradesman, turned entrepreneur into a program that shines light on students’ broader problem-solving abilities. His involvement in YBMA reflects his dedication to creating opportunities for young minds to excel beyond the traditional classroom setting.
Ryan is a member of the manufacturing committee of Hunter IF, the organisation behind the Hunter Innovation Festival, and is a passionate supporter of youth innovation programs such as YBMA.
Here at the YBMA, we’re all about highlighting & encouraging the exceptional talent of young innovators and entrepreneurs. The awards and competitive process help us identify youth with potential and they are rewarded and recognised at our Awards Gala on 24 September. But what happens after that?
YBMA is part of Career Links, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to transitioning young people from school to the next stage of their lives. This may be tertiary education, apprenticeships, jobs or self-employment. Career Links has a vast network of industry, business and educational connections that can be drawn upon to create bespoke mentorships for YBMA winners, enabling the exploration of further development for the winning projects and building industry connections for our young people. Each mentorship may look different and could include, meetings, incursions, site visits, and project development.
For the youth venturing into innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry, operating in a fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, having a mentor can be a game-changer. As the YBMA highlights the exceptional talent of young entrepreneurs and innovators, it’s essential to recognize how mentorship can significantly impact their journeys going forward.
Why Mentorship Matters
Mentorship offers more than just guidance; it provides a comprehensive support system that can accelerate a young innovator’s growth and success. Here’s how mentorship makes a difference:
1. **Guidance and Expertise**: Mentors bring a wealth of experience and knowledge that can help young entrepreneurs navigate complex business landscapes. They provide invaluable insights into industry trends, strategic planning, and practical problem-solving, which are crucial for turning ideas into viable businesses.
2. **Network Expansion**: One of the most significant benefits of mentorship is access to a broader professional network. Mentors can introduce their mentees to key industry contacts, potential collaborators, and investors, helping to open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
3. **Confidence Building**: The entrepreneurial journey is often fraught with challenges and uncertainties. A mentor’s encouragement and constructive feedback can boost a young entrepreneur’s confidence, helping them tackle obstacles with resilience and a positive mindset.
4. **Skill Development**: Mentors offer tailored advice and training to help young innovators develop critical skills. Whether it’s mastering the art of pitching, understanding financial management, or refining leadership qualities, mentorship provides targeted support that is essential for personal and professional growth.
5. **Accountability and Motivation**: Regular interactions with a mentor can help young entrepreneurs stay focused and motivated. A mentor acts as a sounding board, helping to set realistic goals and holding the mentee accountable, which can lead to more disciplined and effective progress.
As the YBMA continue to celebrate the innovative spirit of Newcastle’s youth, it’s clear that mentorship plays a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of business leaders. By offering guidance, expanding networks, and building confidence, mentors help young innovators unlock their full potential, driving success in innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry.
For aspiring young entrepreneurs, seeking out a mentor could be the key to transforming ideas into impactful realities. It’s not just about having someone to guide you; it’s about having a partner in your journey toward making a difference in the world.
Career Links and YBMA are proud to offer mentorships to the winners of each category within the YBMA awards.
For business leaders interested in taking part in the YBMA/Career Links Mentorship Program, please contact Amber Glasper for further information at ybma@careerlinks.nsw.edu.au with MENTOR in the subject line or call on 0402 504 886.
