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Empowering the Next Generation

Beenleigh Yatala Chamber of Commerce Young Business Leaders Program 2025

Empowering the Next Generation: Celebrating the 2025 Young Business Leaders Program

At the Beenleigh Yatala Chamber of Commerce (BYCC), we believe that the future of local business is bright — and that future was on full display at the 2025 Young Business Leaders Program (YBLP) Showcase held on Monday, 16th June at Canterbury College.

This flagship event marked the culmination of months of collaboration, creativity, and learning. Students from across the Logan region came together to present their business ideas, entrepreneurial projects, and leadership initiatives in front of an audience that included some of the city’s most influential decision-makers and business mentors.

Among the special guests in attendance were:

Their presence signaled a strong show of support from both the government and the broader business community, underscoring the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders.

A Program with Purpose

The Young Business Leaders Program, an initiative proudly supported by the BYCC, is designed to inspire and empower high school students with a passion for entrepreneurship and leadership. Through a structured program that includes workshops, mentorship sessions, and practical projects, students gain firsthand experience in what it takes to lead, innovate, and build in today’s economy.

This year’s program was our biggest yet — featuring participation from a diverse mix of local schools and guided by an enthusiastic team of business mentors and Chamber members. The level of professionalism and innovation displayed by the students during the showcase exceeded all expectations.

Whether it was launching a sustainable product line, developing a digital marketing campaign, or pitching new tech-based solutions, every project reflected real-world thinking, creativity, and confidence. It was a proud moment for our Chamber to see young people speaking the language of business so fluently — and with such heart.

The Power of Connection

What sets the YBLP apart is its emphasis on connection. Students aren't just given worksheets and lectures — they're guided by the team at BOP Industries allowing the studend to take their idea all the way to concept. Local busienss leaders and chamber members attend the showcase to check out the busienss ideas and encourage students on how they can move forward with their busienss concepts.  The attendees are involved in the process by having the opportunity to vote on the choosen peoples choice award.

Many of our current Chamber members speak fondly of the students from previous years and are always delighted to see the potential in the students before they see it in themselves. The YBLP brings that same spirit to life, helping young people envision their place in Logan’s business community not in ten years — but right now.

A Community That Shows Up

Having a full house at Canterbury College, with local politicians, councillors, Chamber leaders, and business people in attendance, is a testament to the strong, community-focused spirit we share in Logan.

Mayor Jon Raven’s address to the students highlighted the important role young people play in shaping the economic and cultural future of our city. Small Business Commissioner Domonique Lamb also reminded attendees that small business is the heartbeat of Queensland — and programs like the YBLP help ensure that heartbeat remains strong and adaptive.

Seeing so many local leaders make time to celebrate student achievements sends a powerful message: we see you, we believe in you, and we’re here to walk alongside you.

Looking Ahead

As we wrap up another successful year of the Young Business Leaders Program, we are already looking ahead to 2026. Our goal? To grow the program further, to welcome even more schools and mentors, and to continue building a pipeline of future-ready leaders right here in Logan.

To our current members — thank you. Your continued involvement in Chamber events, your support of local programs like YBLP, and your commitment to showing up for our youth makes all the difference.

If you're not yet involved with the Young Business Leaders Program, we'd love to invite you to consider being part of it next year. Whether it's through mentorship, sponsorship, or simply attending next year's showcase, there’s a role for every Chamber member to play in shaping our region’s future.

Because the future of business isn't somewhere else.

It’s here. And it’s already happening.

At the Beenleigh Yatala Chamber of Commerce, we're proud to support programs that make a real difference. If you’re already a member, thank you for being part of a Chamber that invests in the next generation. Your support helps create opportunities that empower young leaders, grow our local economy, and keep our business community thriving. Stay engaged, stay inspired — and consider getting involved in next year’s YBLP!


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