Torpedo backs future entrepreneurs

In a move to foster entrepreneurship among students who attend non-traditional high schools, Torpedo Loan Foundation has launched an initiative aimed at supporting students pursuing business education.

Jose Marti Technical High School, located in Spanish Town, St Catherine, will be the first institution to benefit from the initiative. As part of the programme, Torpedo has pledged to cover the cost of two business subjects for students at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) level.

Rohan Silvera, founder and owner of Torpedo Loan, told THE STAR that the aim of the venture is to introduce students to the world of business from a young age. He believes that it can help create future entrepreneurs to help drive national development.

"I used to attend the school, and we decided to focus on business students because we want to create entrepreneurs," Silvera said.

Silvera emphasised the value of early exposure to business concepts, noting that this foundation is critical for fostering innovation and leadership skills. He also highlighted the foundation's long-standing partnership with Jose Marti Technical High School, which spans over five years, aimed at identifying and supporting aspiring young entrepreneurs.

"We find it necessary to develop their minds, so that they see what is possible. We focus on children from grade nine to 11, and even after school, to include those who will be leaving school to go to college; and even those who will be leaving school to directly become entrepreneurs," he said.

Silvera also identified the potential long-term impact of the initiative. "When they leave school, we will be following up with them, whether it is providing jobs and nurturing them in entrepreneurships, or helping them to set up their own businesses and becoming their own leaders," Silvera said.