Recently, 100 enthusiastic children took part in an exciting Corporate Visit/Workshop at Ready Care Experience Store, Ipoh Garden South in preparation for the KidStart 2024 programme.
The workshop provided a hands-on learning experience, where the children engaged in interactive activities such as creating their own dishwashing liquid and decorating the bottles. These tasks not only sparked creativity but also introduced the young participants to real-world problem-solving.
Beyond these activities, the children were also introduced to fundamental financial skills on the Business Training Day, held on 24 August, which saw 180 kids participation in total. Highlighted points of this training included basic financial literacy, simple calculations, and understanding how to generate a profit.
This year, special emphasis was placed on sales pitching, where the children were encouraged to improve their communication skills and build confidence in presenting and selling their products. These exercises were designed to empower the children, helping them to step outside their comfort zones and embrace challenges with enthusiasm.
With generous support from Yayasan Bina Upaya, children from B40 families were given the opportunity to participate in this enriching experience.
2024 JCI Kinta President Ms Stephanie Hew mentioned that JCI Kinta is firmly committed to ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have the chance to learn valuable skills and explore business opportunities. The goal is to create a more inclusive environment where every child can unlock their potential and aspire to greater heights.
KidStart 2024, also known as Bazaar Junior Perak last year, is making a grand return as an officially endorsed Perak State programme.
Organised by JCI Kinta, this project of the Perak State Government, the event will take place on September 7, 2024 (Saturday), from 8 AM to 3 PM at Seri Botani International School. KidStart is being held in conjunction with Perak Hari Kanak-Kanak Day and aims to provide children aged 6 to 12 with a valuable platform to learn about entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and leadership skills, while promoting the entrepreneurial culture in Perak.
Since its inception two years ago as the “School of Hope: Children Flea Market,” KidStart has grown significantly, drawing attention and support from all walks of life. This year, the event has been scaled up, with 80 stalls run by young entrepreneurs—a notable increase from the 60 stalls last year. The flea market will see over 1,000 children and parents participating, fostering a community of young business-minded leaders.
KidStart Organising Chairman, Mr Irvin Ho, emphasised that KidStart is part of their flagship project, “School of Hope,” which focuses on four key areas of development: Entrepreneurship, Financial Literacy, Problem Solving, and Communication.
Beyond individual growth, the programme also aims to enhance parent-child relationships and develop future leaders.
To ensure inclusivity, JCI Kinta has partnered with several organisations, including Wanita Perak, Jawatankuasa Bangunan Wanita Keluarga, Kebajikan Masyarakat, Pembangunan Usahawan dan Koperasi, Zantat Holdings Berhad, and many others. This year’s programme will also involve underprivileged children, including orphans and kids from B40 families, ensuring their participation aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4): “Ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning.”
At the end of the programme, children will have the opportunity to participate in the “Give Back to Society Day,” where they will donate 10% of their profits to selected charities, fostering a sense of community responsibility and compassion.
KidStart 2024 promises to be an unforgettable day of learning and fun. The public is encouraged to attend and support these young entrepreneurs as they showcase their business skills. In addition to the flea market, exciting activities will include DIY Art & Craft Workshops, Dancing Competitions, Mind Mapping Competitions, Robotic Workshops, Batik Painting Workshops, and many more. Health-related activities such as free health screenings, blood donation drives, and mental health assessments will also be available.
Registration is now open for children aged 6 to 12. JCI Kinta is also seeking sponsors to support this impactful initiative.
For sponsorship inquiries or to participate in this event, please contact Organizing Chairperson, Mr Irvin Ho (012-561 3188) or JCI Kinta President, Ms Stephanie Hew (012-505 2926). More information can be found on JCI Kinta’s official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/jcikinta.
