Budding entrepreneurs have put their business ideas to the test in a session with experts from HSBC bank.

Young people involved with Newham Youth Council’s enterprise scheme were given a tour of HSBC’s headquarters in Canary Wharf where they gained an insight into the business world.

They applied for the session by submitting small business ideas for products to be sold at a market stall.

They took part in a Market Day, where they set up stalls in Stratford and sold their products, which ranged from fruit kebabs to cupcakes and face-painting.

The session, made possible by the East London Business Alliance, gave youngsters a chance to analyse how their product performed and improve their business ideas, with advice from professional commercial managers.

They then gave presentations about what they had learned.

The day finished with lunch and a networking session with HSBC staff including interns and the commercial team.

Young Mayor of Newham Adam Khaliq, who started the Newham Youth Council enterprise scheme, said: “As young mayor, I’ve worked to ensure young people have access to a range of different opportunities like this one as they give them the chance to learn lifelong skills that will benefit them in higher education or work.

“This was a truly fantastic experience for those involved and I’d like to thank HSBC and the East London Business Alliance for their support.”

Heather Chevannes, deputy area commercial director at HSBC, said: “I was truly impressed at how well the young people were prepared for the day and their engagement throughout.

“These are our future entrepreneurs and this experience will have opened their eyes to an alternative to seeking employment.”

Read more:

Beckton schoolboy in Animal Farm play a ‘star in the making’

East Ham student Kasia, 12, looks forward to seeing her designs on London catwalk