GCCI shaping the next generation of business leaders

Young minds are taking centre stage in Guyana’s business community, as the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) recently launched its 2025 Teenternship Programme.

The two-week internship initiative, which forms part of National Small Business Week (NSBW) that commenced last week, is placing 15 Grade 10 and 11 students from the School of the Nations and Camille’s Academy in real-world business environments across 14 GCCI member companies.

It focuses on building the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders through immersive training in leadership, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and management.

Speaking during the launch, GCCI President Kathy Smith emphasised the importance of self-discovery and long-term vision.

“Use this time to figure out your gifts and talents. Ask yourself what you love to do,” she advised. She also challenged the host companies to view their interns as future business leaders. “In five years, these students could be negotiating on your behalf—so treat this as a mentorship opportunity, not just an internship,” she told the interns.

Similar sentiments were also echoed by GCCI Councillor and Chairperson of the Chamber’s Entrepreneurship and Small Business Committee, Orson Ferguson.

“The Teenternship Programme is a chance for our bright young minds to step into the world of business—to learn, contribute, and be inspired. It’s about creating opportunities and nurturing innovation,” he noted.

The chamber’s secretary, Kristia Ramlagan-Prescott, also encouraged the teens to fully embrace the experience.

“Make memories, build relationships, and soak in everything you learn. We’re excited to hear your success stories,” she said.

The Teenternship initiative serves as the kickoff to National Small Business Week 2025, which features a packed agenda of seminars, workshops, and expos geared toward strengthening Guyana’s Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs), with the aim of boosting business performance and equipping local entrepreneurs with tools to thrive in an evolving market.