The flexibility the Open University offers to people in my sector is really attractive

The flexibility the Open University offers to people in my sector is really attractive

8 June 2022

A YOUNG Killinchy farming entrepreneur has taken part in an Open University challenge to inspire young people to become their own boss.

Emily McGowan, acting managing director of the award-winning Millbank Farm in Killinchy and director of Millbank Farm Shop in Saintfield, joined forces with the BBC for the initiative.

The 24 year-old teamed up with Radio 1 presenter Gemma Cairney to lead her through the ‘Unlock Your Inner Boss’ programme.

Emily took part in an interactive livestream to guide Gemma when she tackled a set of business challenges, from crowdsourcing funds to other business decisions.

The former Strathearn School pupil joined academics, alumni and expert guests to encourage entrepreneurship among young people following a survey which showed that almost half of young people (45%) feel trapped in a job they hate.

The new research, commissioned by The Open University, also found that 82 % of young people said they dream of being their own boss, while three-quarters describe themselves as having an entrepreneurial spirit.

The study of 1,500 20 to 35-year-olds found that most found it difficult to find something new, with 28% feeling they fell into a career path they can’t get out of. 

Emily said continuing education was crucial for success in business.

“When I set up the business, I was really green and I quickly learned that you need to invest in yourself and encourage your team to develop themselves too, to successfully scale up the business. 

“The flexibility that the Open University offers to people in my sector is incredibly attractive.

“I really enjoyed the opportunity to share some advice in the Be Your Own Boss event and I firmly believe that you learn from your peers, so it was invaluable for me to hear from others for my business planning too.

To watch Emily in action, a recording of The Open University’s Unlock Your Inner Boss LIVE – The CEO Challenge is available on YouTube #OUinnerboss.