The City of Subiaco is sponsoring two scholarships for the 2024 Curtin Ignition program; an intensive, one-week training program for aspiring entrepreneurs that takes place in September.
The program, which is facilitated by Curtin University, enables participants to trial and prepare high-growth, scalable business ideas.
The City is sponsoring two delegates to attend the program: Olga Abbott, founder of Studio Thimbles on Hay Street, and Selina Peng, a qualified social worker with an established at-home practice ‘Neurocraft’ in Shenton Park.
For Olga, participating in Curtin Ignition will enable her to refine her business plan for the studio, gain valuable mentorship, and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and business owners.
Olga said, “The program caught my attention because of its strong emphasis on providing valuable knowledge and mentorship. I hope to positively impact the community, and further our studio’s mission of fostering sustainability, creativity, and connections, as well as furthering the circular textile economy.”
Selina plans to leverage the program to explore the feasibility of expanding Neurocraft’s services, to potentially offer workshops, training, and development sessions focused on integrating neurodivergent employees into workplaces.
Of the Ignition program, Selina said, “As a first-time business founder, there is a lot to learn! I hope being part of the program will not only equip me with practical business skills, but also refine my creative thinking within a commercial context.
“As a City of Subiaco resident, I’m excited to bring back new ideas and strategies that can benefit both our vibrant local community and the broader community.”
Mayor David McMullen said these two sponsorships further the City’s commitment to championing its local business community.
“Programs like Curtin Ignition provide a unique opportunity for people to learn from industry leaders and innovators from around the world. I look forward to seeing the ideas and innovation Olga and Selina will bring back into our community after the program’s completion.
Read more about the 2024 Curtin Ignition program
here, and stay tuned on the City’s Facebook page for updates about the participants’ experiences.