A couple of weeks ago I had the privilege of attending the final of the Young Enterprise Wales Awards 2014.

I was inspired by the schools and special needs institutions that took part, which included students from Rougemont School, Crownbridge Special School and Heolddu Comprehensive School.

The calibre of business acumen displayed by such young individuals was exceptional and really belied the age of those involved. It was great to see such entrepreneurial spirit in the room and it just goes to show that, with a little encouragement, young people can achieve great things.

In order for our economy to have long-term prosperity, we must encourage the enthusiasm of youngsters like the schoolchildren who were involved in the Awards and harness that as best we can.

This starts with parents supporting and encouraging their children to become entrepreneurial, and extends to schools and businesses across Gwent working together to equip young people with the skills they need to be a success when they enter the world of work.

This should include work experience placements, internships and vocational courses that can help foster the enthusiasm that is clearly out there amongst youngsters and turn that into skills that make them readily employable or in a position where they can begin thinking seriously about starting their own business.

I’d recommend anyone who is finishing their education and interested in starting their own business to get in touch with Centre for Business to see how we can help. We have a number of different courses designed to prepare people for everything that’s involved with running a business – from finances, to marketing and business development.

By supporting those who will be the lifeblood of our economy for many years to come, we give ourselves the best possible chance of creating jobs and a thriving economy in Newport. After all, if the standard of those involved with the Awards is anything to go by, then the future really is bright.