Over 50 Young Entrepreneurs Showcase Talent at Hulhumalé Youth Expo

Over 50 Young Entrepreneurs Showcase Talent at Hulhumalé Youth Expo

World ·
The Youth Expo at Hulhumalé Central Park has concluded after three days of showcasing the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of the Maldives' young population. Held from August 12 to 14, the event provided a critical platform for young people to refine their talents and explore sustainable business opportunities. Organized by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, the expo targeted Maldivians aged 18 to 35. To lower the barrier to entry for emerging startups, the Ministry provided stalls free of charge, allowing young entrepreneurs in art, handicrafts, fashion, printing, and professional services to engage directly with the public. More than 50 youth-led business and food stalls participated in the event, which operated daily from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM. In addition to the commercial displays, the expo featured entertainment segments that allowed young artists to perform and exhibit their work, drawing a significant crowd of visitors to the park. Minister of Youth Empowerment Abdulla Rafiu visited the expo to review the creative output of the participants. The Ministry also utilized the event to operate an information hub, guiding attendees through national government programs focused on youth development, grants, and fitness initiatives. The event's success was bolstered by a wide array of institutional partners, including the Bank of Maldives, HDC, Ooredoo, Dhiraagu, STELCO, and WAMCO, among others. Their collaboration underscored a multi-sector commitment to fostering the next generation of Maldivian business leaders. The expo coincided with International Youth Day, observed annually on August 12. This year's celebrations extended beyond Hulhumalé, with the Dhiraagu Gamers Guild hosting e-game competitions and various island councils across the Maldives organizing sports tournaments. These nationwide activities aimed to strengthen social bonds among the youth and provide diverse avenues for them to showcase their talents in both athletic and digital fields.