The Positive Impact of an Enterprise Program on Rural Youth Development

Abstract

In the context of national initiatives to promote entrepreneurial skills in rural Australia, a research project was conducted to determine the impact and further potential of one such initiative, the Young Achievement Australia (YAA) program. This is the first reported review of YAA. A total of 200 program graduates of at least five years standing, who had completed the program at secondary schools in rural and regional areas, were surveyed to determine perceived impacts of, and attitudes towards, the program. Over 80% of participants believed that their personal business management and communication skills had been enhanced. Respondents were generally enthusiastic about their experiences, with many reporting an intensification of interest in the career path already chosen. At least 40% believed YAA significantly affected study or career choice. A majority of respondents reported positive impacts on their personal and enterprise management knowledge, attitudes, skills, and aspirations. These findings support expansion of the YAA program in rural and regional areas, provided there are linked efforts to ensure access to suitably skilled advisers for program participants.