SRINAGAR: Two young entrepreneurs from Kashmir have been selected for a global summit of entrepreneurs to be held in New Delhi this week.
Humeera Qayoom and Aarif Shafi Khanyari will take part in “Power of Youth – India Summit 2013” which will bring the world’s most prominent entrepreneurs (aged under 35) together.
In a statement, international development agency Mercy Corps said the two youths were supported under its ‘Start-up Kashmir Youth Entrepreneurship’ development project (SKYE).
“It is because of Mercy Corps training and support that I am a part of this international summit where top global entrepreneurs are participating,” said Aarif Shafi, who started his jewellery manufacturing business – D’Ali’s Jewels.
“Unemployment in a major problem in Kashmir and there is a huge need and scope for work like Mercy Corps is doing on entrepreneurship development in Kashmir,” he added.
Ms Qayoom said she is excited. “It’s a great opportunity for sharing and learning,” she said.
The two youth were recently invited to New Delhi by the Scottish government. They met the External Affairs Minister of Scotland and shared their entrepreneurial journey with him.
The Scottish government under its South Asia Development program had funded the Mercy Corps’ SKYE Project which worked to foster an ecosystem conducive for youth entrepreneurship in Kashmir Valley.
More than 170 Kashmiri Youth entrepreneurs started their businesses under this project so far.
