Guests attending Moneague College Day last Thursday were awestruck at the talent of students whose works were on display as part of the St Ann school’s 60th anniversary celebration.

The booth set up by the Saruba Company, which won this year’s Best Entrepreneurial Group award, was among the more popular as it featured innovative items such as pineapple and ribena fruit wines, furniture made from recycled tyres and wicker, and crochet items including swimwear. The group also had a variety of items made from bamboo, including cups and pencil holders.

Ingrid Salmon-Williams, who lectures at the teachers’ college’s school of business, said the group received the most marks in this year’s competition, which was held last month, for originality and for a business idea which could do well in the corporate world. The group also won the award for Best Business Attire.

Another booth which attracted many visitors was that set-up by the Herbaceutix Company, which featured scented candles, the majority of which were made from natural herbs such as the lemon grass.

Jordan Daye, student and chemical engineering manager for the company, explained that the candles were made to be as environmentally friendly as possible. He said 20 per cent bee wax was used in the manufacturing of the candles, which will result in less toxins being released into the air when they are used.

Daye told the Jamaica Observer that the candles were a hit, as many of those on display on Thursday were sold. He also explained that, during the entrepreneurship competition, all the candles made were sold before the group was graded.

“Persons love the scent because they are natural,” he said.

Daye said the group is now thinking of establishing the business outside the college because of the level of success it has garnered so far.

Another group which is considering expanding beyond the walls of Moneague College is Fugen Technologies, a company formed by second-year management Information system students. Fugen Technologies offers software development, web development, digital marketing, and a number of other technology-related services. The group has also launched its own App, which provides clients or potential clients with information on the services offered. It also allows clients to set appointments and sends e-mail to clients to remind them of their appointments

Salmon-Williams said the college’s aim was to motivate students to become entrepreneurs.

“We are trying to change the culture of students to allow them to know they can create their own businesses,” she explained, adding that the annual event is more than students competing and presenting ideas, as it was opening their eyes to what they have to offer.

Dr Maureen Byfield, a past student and former lecturer at the college, was the guest speaker. The day’s activities concluded with a talent concert.

As part of its 60th anniversary celebrations, the School of Business organised a community workshop for micro and small business operators within the Moneague community to provide them with business advice.

— Renae Dixon