Why I've committed my summer to SE101

When I was in my third year, I encountered an email outlining the details of a great opportunity. Interested in an opportunity to travel half way around the world to Africa and use your skills to teach others in need of business plan development? I was hesitant to answer this question because I had many excuses. I did not have enough time for this. I do not think this is right for me. I do not want to spend my summer away from home. These hesitant thoughts deleted the message neglecting a great opportunity.

Upon revisiting the website, I learned that wonderful things were done upon such a brief period of time. Smiles were everywhere as I saw the SE101 2009 team dedicating their time to help others. Judging from the smiles from all the photos, the participants were indeed forever indebted and grateful for their presence. Also, the participants in this program gave rave reviews about how they learned so much from their teachers from afar. I saw the African students along with our students hand in hand having the time of their lives. These smiles had an impression on me that I too can make a difference. The smiles from the participants who just barely know you, so real, in a capsulated moment in time really drew me back to this program. I wanted to make a difference. I did not want to leave the Sauder School of Business with only an education, but I wanted to leave a mark, to help others who did not have an opportunity as I did. That is why I chose to dedicate my time to this program.

Now in my fourth year, once again the SE101 email came. This time, I did not let this opportunity get away.

The Importance of Fundraising

SE 101 is a non profit organization that is committed to seeing entrepreneurs have the right skills and tools to develop their own businesses. Fundraising is a key part of SE 101 because it provides funds to buy supplies and materials, team costs, facility rentals in Kenya and micro-financing. The 2010 team is responsible for raising over $25,000. Fundraising not only allows the team to obtain the funds necessary to carry out this project, it also provides important leadership and character development as well as allowing students to take ownership of the project.

This is an excellent way for students to engage both their networks and the community around them to get involved in an exciting and life changing project. To donate please visit SE 101 and all donations over $25 receive a tax receipt from UBC. To learn more about the project and other ways you can support it please visit our facebook page.

Below is a list of ways that donations are used:

$25- Sponsors resource and homework booklets for one participant. These materials, developed by the SE101 team under the supervision of a Sauder School of Business faculty member, are highly valued by participants for their ease of use, local relevance and practical guidance.

$50-Sponsors one week of nutrition breaks at one SE101 location

$150-Sponsors one participant for the three-week program. This support allows us to continue to provide the course at no cost to the participants.

$500-Provides start-up funds for one young entrepreneur to launch their small business. These funds are made available after the participants have received individual feedback and their business plans have been reviewed and approved by the SE101 team.

$750-Sponsors the purchase of a tent for one location. Classes in some locations are taught outdoors, and shelter facilities are needed to protect against variable weather conditions.

$1,000-Provides for the stipends for students from Strathmore University (Nairobi) to teach with us and help mentor the participants

$2,000-Provides post-program support for the participants in SE101. This support ensures that the momentum built during the program is maintained, and that business plans are turned into realized actions.

$5,000-Sponsors an entire classroom (30-35 participants). This includes facilities, nutrition breaks, guest speakers and materials.