Ebunoluwa Akinola
Two Nigerian girls have become finalists of the 2021 Young Tycoon Business Challenge after presenting a business idea that could provide solutions for the kidnapping and abduction issues facing schools in Nigeria.
Chioma Abone and Emmanuel Ilok, students at Greensprings School in Lagos, explained that their new product will use wearable technology to address the disturbing cases of abduction in Nigeria, especially those involving schoolchildren.
While presenting their business plan to the Young Tycoon Business panel, the students identified a twofold solution: an app called Airguard, which will work with a wearable device to alert family and friends if the user is in danger.
According to the two girls, they are motivated to create the product because of the insecurity in Nigeria affecting students.
The Young Tycoon Business Challenge is a competition for high school students with ideas for new businesses. It aims to connect aspiring entrepreneurs with Silicon Valley leaders who can provide advice and mentorship.
More than 7,000 participants applied from 80 countries around the world. After three rounds of pitching and developing solid business ideas, 28 finalists have been selected to pitch at a later round.
The winning team will get $960,000 worth of prizes; $10,000 in cash and $950,000 in benefits. They will also participate in workshops Entrepreneurship Clubs of Ivy League Schools.
One could only hope these young innovators are afforded the perfect environment to thrive here in Nigeria.
