Apply your business skills

Hong Kong's annual Lunar New Year fairs are crowded with teenagers who want some festive fun amid the crush of people.

Some stalls at the fairs are hosted by young people who see a valuable chance to put their business knowledge into practice.

To reward outstanding young entrepreneurs, the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG) and Shell Hong Kong have organised a business competition.

The Lunar New Year Bazaar Awards aim to recognise the achievements of young stall keepers who run successful businesses at the fairs.

Organisers believe the competition will be a good way for teenagers to enhance their business knowledge.

'Running a stall at a fair is like running a small business. The participants can learn a lot, such as how to control costs

and attract customers,' said HKFYG's Cheung Chi-wai.

The scheme is open to people aged between 15 and 30 who have already secured rights to run a stall at the Lunar New Year fairs.

Participants will be divided into three categories: secondary, university and open. To qualify, they have to form a group of at most 18 people and prepare a detailed business report at the end of the fairs.

Selection interviews will be held in March to choose the best teams.

The champion in each section will be awarded a HK$10,000 cash prize.

The deadline for admission is January 17. For application forms and details, go to www.U21.hk/yen