Be Inspired! 2008 Student Business and Enterprise Conference in Bristol on Monday 24th November attracted nearly 400 young delegates.
It was organised for the second year by John Fitzpatrick a teacher of Business Studies based in Bristol.
The event at St George's, Brandon Hill in Bristol, was supported by the South West Regional Development Agency and hosted by BBC Points West presenter Alex Lovell.
"We virtually doubled the attendance at last year's inaugural conference," said John, "and it was tremendously encouraging to have 18 schools and colleges represented."
Inspirational speakers included Talan Skeels-Piggins from the British Disabled Ski Team, Alex Wotherspoon, finalist in the last BBC 'Apprentice' series, and Levi Roots, musician and founder of the sensationally successful Reggae Reggae Sauce range.
Like Alex, Levi became an overnight celebrity - in his case for winning support on 'Dragons' Den', the venture-capitalist TV show. His business rocketed because, he explained, he had been forced out of his comfort zone into what he discovered was an adventurous and enterprising world of business.
Many of the delegates were moved by how Talan had displayed both real courage and true enterprise. Talan had overcome many barriers to make his dream happen and hopefully compete at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and possibly even London 2012.
The event succeeded in inspiring those in attendance, celebrating enterprise in the South West and the young delegates left feeling encouraged about having ideas and making them happen.
Feedback from those in attendance was excellent:
"Just a quick note to say a big thank-you for organising yesterday. My students felt inspired by the whole experience."
City of Bath College
"Thank you for inviting us, it was a great event!"
The Prince's Trust
"I thought I should drop you a line to say how much our students enjoyed the event on Monday. They found the speakers not only inspirational (especially Talan) but hugely motivational. It has even been mentioned that it was the best Business trip ever! They found Levi fascinating and left the conference 'buzzing'. Thank you very much!"
Colyton Grammar School
