Rebecca Holmes, Entrepreneurship Coordinator

Did you know that Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2014 took place a few short weeks ago, from November 17-23?  In Canada alone over 530 events and activities took place to celebrate and to educate people in entrepreneurship across the country.  The Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) hosted Do It In Durham (DIID) comprised of over 30 events and was announced a Trailblazer for holding the 3^rd highest number of events and activities during GEW in Canada.  This shows how the Durham region is cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and how the community is embracing innovation and small business.  I know all of this, because I began my role as Entrepreneurship Coordinator at the perfect time – 2 short weeks before GEW 2014 began!As part of my training, I went to as many DIID events as I could squeeze into my schedule.  My week comprised of many long days but I wouldn’t have changed a thing because it was the best way to get started in my new role and I feel so thankful to have participated in the most motivating and inspiring week I could have anticipated. 

Durham College is dedicated to fostering an entrepreneurial mindset in our students and to fostering innovation and creativity on campus.  As the New Year brings new beginnings, be sure to keep on the lookout for the grand opening of the FastStart DC centre.  Soon-to-be situated in the Gordon Willey building, this centre will be dedicated to innovative young minds interested in entrepreneurship activities.  From guest speakers to workshops, to boot camps and mentoring, the FastStart program will be one focused on helping our students succeed in the world of start-ups and, thanks to the hugely successful TV show on the CBC, real-life dragons. 

As the newest member of ORSI, I am happy to say that I have been welcomed with kindness and inclusion by the team.  I look forward to getting this exciting new entrepreneurship initiative up and running on campus, so keep your eyes and ears open for the many events and activities to come!