Mount Aspiring College: Student selected to travel to Brazil with entrepreneurial programme

We are thrilled to announce that Alexis-Sofia Harvey-Wills, a Year 13 student at Te Kura o Tititea Mount Aspiring College, has been selected as one of eight students from New Zealand to travel to Brazil and enhance her entrepreneurial skills. Alexis will be participating in LatAM Biz, a prestigious program organized by the Latin American Centre of Asia-Pacific Excellence in collaboration with the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES).

During her time in Brazil, Alexis will join forces with students from both New Zealand and Sāo Paulo to pitch innovative solutions to business challenges related to sustainable development goals. This unique opportunity will allow her to develop her knowledge of global business practices with a focus on sustainability, while also immersing herself in a vibrant new culture.

"I was over the moon when I found out I’d been selected! My mind immediately filled with thoughts of color, music, culture, and food," Alexis shared. "I'm incredibly excited to not only grow my business skills and knowledge but also to create lifelong memories, build connections, and explore a new country."

Alexis's journey with the YES program has been instrumental in her development as an aspiring entrepreneur. Earlier this year, she participated in the Entrepreneurs in Action weekend in Wellington, where she honed her skills and formed valuable connections. This experience, combined with her passion for business, motivated her to apply for the LatAM Biz program.

Through her participation in the YES program as part of her Level 3 Business and Enterprise studies at MAC, Alexis has gained extensive skills and knowledge. Her experience in founding the student-led business ‘Waewae Soles’ has taught her dedication, adaptability, and the importance of critical thinking, innovation, social, and communication skills.

"My grandfather, a businessman, would often share invaluable advice and ways of thinking that have deeply influenced me. His inspiration, along with the entrepreneurial spirit of my parents and the guidance of my wonderful teacher Sandra Findlay, has fueled my passion for business."

Looking ahead, Alexis aspires to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce at university and build a successful career in business. She aims to make a positive impact on the economy and environment, holding a senior leadership role in a New Zealand-based business while also gaining experience overseas.

"I am incredibly grateful for this amazing opportunity. Representing the Young Enterprise Scheme and Mount Aspiring College in Brazil is a dream come true, and I can’t wait to embark on this journey."

Congratulations, Alexis! We wish you the best of luck in Brazil and look forward to hearing about your experiences and successes.