FILM producer, Darren Osborne, has been named Dunbartonshire’s top young entrepreneur at the regional finals of the 2012 The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland ‘Young Entrepreneur of the Year’ Awards.
The 27 year-old founder of 14c Studio in Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire was announced as regional winner at a ceremony in The Eagle Lodge in Bishopbriggs today.
He was presented with a £1,000 cash prize by Jennifer Stevenson – from Scotch whisky producer, Chivas Brothers – sponsor of the award, and will now be considered by the judging panel to be entered into the national final taking place at Glasgow’s City Chambers on Tuesday 13th November 2012.
Following his graduation from Glasgow School of Art three years ago, Darren Osborne found himself to be unemployed and inexperienced graphic designer.
Determined to do something about it, he decided to start a business where he could gain industry experience, develop his skills, make contacts and also raise funds to work on self-initiated film projects.
Darren applied to Youth Business Scotland for a loan to help start up his business and launched 14c Studio in September 2009. He works collaboratively on a number of projects with another YBS Supported business, Douglas King, founder of 14c Film.
In 2010, 14c Studio was nominated for a Scottish BAFTA New Talent Award, a huge achievement for a business that had only been trading for one year.
The nomination generated coverage in both local and national press and also raised 14c’s profile in the film industry. 14c are now working on their next film and working hard to raise their profile with bosses at Channel 4, BBC and STV to generate interest in their work.
The runner-up is 25 year-old Laura Ramsay, founder of Total Effects Exercise Ltd based in Milngavie. After graduating from the University of Glasgow with a degree in Physiology and Sports Science, Laura decided to start a business offering personal training services to people in and around the East Dunbartonshire and Glasgow areas
Laura approached Youth Business Scotland and was successful in applying for a Market Test Grant which helped her to test the viability of her business. With this grant, Laura was able to purchase marketing materials and the equipment she needed to generate interest in her business.
Laura now works with many private clients and has helped them achieve their life long goals, dreams and ambitions. Goals such as completing the Machu Pichu Trek, completing marathons within goal times and improve mental health and mood levels for clients suffering from mental health issues.
Provost Una Walker, from East Dunbartonshire Council, presented Laura with a cash prize of £500 and a runners-up certificate.
Both the winner and the runner-up received funding, advice and support from Youth Business Scotland, which during the last 23 years, has supported over 13,000 young people to start over 10,500 businesses, providing £37.8million in funding and additional assistance.
Speaking at the awards ceremony, Youth Business Scotland regional manager, Sharita Guy said: “These young entrepreneurs represent some of the most talented, creative and dedicated business people in Scotland today and we are delighted to be able to recognise and reward their achievements through these awards.”
Jennifer Stevenson, Chivas Brothers’ communications manager, added: “We are delighted to support Youth Business Scotland in creating this entrepreneurial environment. These awards are essential in encouraging a culture that values business ambition and innovation.”
The regional awards also recognised the expertise, mentoring advice and inspiration of aftercare advisor, Mr Brian Connolly, who was named Dunbartonshire’s regional Volunteer of the Year.
A Youth Business Scotland regional manager assists with everything from compiling a business plan to securing premises. Once the business is up and running, an aftercare adviser is appointed, all of whom are experts in their fields.
They work as volunteers for the organisation, with the sole aim of helping young entrepreneurs sustain their business and offering them crucial advice during the first two years in business. Mr Connolly will go forward and have the chance of winning the coveted title of ‘Volunteer of the Year’ at the national award finals in November.
ENDS
Issued on behalf of Youth Business Scotland by Jen Nash, Panache Communications t. 07971 466 220 e. jen@panachecommunications.co.uk For further information contact, Youth Business Scotland Regional Manager, Sharita Guy on t. 0141 435 7560 or Margaret Gibson/Louise Moore at Youth Business Scotland head office on Tel no. 0141 248 4999.
NOTES TO EDITORS
The Prince’s Scottish Youth Business Trust (PSYBT) is now known as The Prince’s Trust Youth Business Scotland and is part of The Prince’s Trust.
Chivas Brothers is the global leader in luxury Scotch whisky and premium gin, and a major employer in Dunbartonshire. Its portfolio includes Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Beefeater Gin, The Glenlivet and Royal Salute.
Darren Osborne, 14c Studio, Darren@14cstudio.com, www.14cstudio.com, 07895906440 Laura Ramsay, Total Effect Personal Training Ltd, laura@totaleffectpersonaltraining.com, www.totaleffectpersonaltraining.com, 07789591265
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