The Youth Expo at Hulhumalé Central Park has concluded successfully, providing young people with opportunities to develop their talents and explore new opportunities in business.
The expo, held from 12 to 14 August, was organised as an important initiative to develop the skills of young people and create new opportunities for them in the business sector.
Maldivians aged between 18 and 35 were given the opportunity to operate stalls at the expo free of charge. The opportunity was primarily aimed at young entrepreneurs engaged in areas including art, handicrafts, fashion, printing and various services.
The Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness said more than 50 youth-led business and food stalls participated in the three-day event, which was held from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM each day.
The stalls included businesses engaged in handicrafts, fashion, printing, and various services. Entertainment activities also provided several opportunities for young artists. The expo attracted a large number of visitors and received a strong response.
Minister of Youth Empowerment Abdulla Rafiu also visited the expo and viewed the creative work presented by young people.
The Ministry also operated a dedicated stall at the expo, where young people were provided with information on national programmes conducted by the Government for youth development, grants and fitness programmes.
The Ministry said the successful organisation of the event was supported by the participation and assistance of several institutions and companies, including Adventure App, HDC, Bank of Maldives, SSDFC, Ooredoo, Dhiraagu, Gamers Guild, STELCO, WAMCO, Hulhumalé Hospital, Eco Events and BBC.
International Youth Day is observed annually on 12 August. A number of activities were held across the Maldives this year in connection with the occasion.
In addition to the expo held in Hulhumalé, e-game competitions were organised by Dhiraagu Gamers Guild. Councils on islands across the Maldives, in addition to Malé, also organised various sports competitions targeting young people on those islands.
The main purpose of the activities was to strengthen friendship among young people and provide them with opportunities to showcase their talents in different fields.