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David Ssegawa and David Constable

BBC prize winner meets the Commonwealth Youth Programme

21 September 2007

On the eve of David Ssegawa’s departure back to Uganda, the Barbara Soetan from the Commonwealth Youth Programme asked him a few questions about his experience

As part of the Commonwealth Youth Programme Youth Enterprise and Sustainable Livelihoods Conference held on 10 September, David Ssegawa flew in from Uganda, having recently won the Faidika Na BBC (‘Prosper with the BBC’) competition for his business plan to set up his own candle manufacturing company to be sold locally.

At the conference, David shared his experiences as a young entrepreneur in Uganda, and his insight was warmly received.

During his trip to London, David also had the opportunity to meet with the UK’s leading candle maker, David Constable, at his shop, Candle Makers Supplies in Kensington Olympia. David Constable has accumulated over 30 years of experience and also runs training courses at his candle workshop in Wales. David Constable was more than happy to share his wealth of knowledge on the art of candle making with David, and in the end presented a signed copy of his book to the young entrepreneur.

On the eve of David Ssegawa’s departure back to Uganda, the Barbara Soetan from the Commonwealth Youth Programme asked him a few questions about his experience.

How did you find your experience meeting David constable, the UK’s leading candle maker?

It was wonderful. It taught me a lot. The methods that David shared with me are unique. I learnt everything from the different methods of making a candle, to the variety of wicks available and the type of wax to buy. David also advised me on the importance of effective marketing, urging me to pay particular attention to pricing, place and network marketing.

How important is enterprise amongst young people?

Enterprise offers the opportunity for young people to accumulate their own wealth and combat unemployment through self-led development. The business world is not exhaustive and enterprise offers room for young people to be innovative in creating new ideas, and meeting the demand of the market.

Should there be more competitions/support initiatives in place, to encourage enterprise?

Yes. Far too often young people do not have enough support and guidance. Businesses do not take into consideration the lack of experience young people have. Incentives like competitions allow young people to share their enterprising ideas. There is a need for the provision of more support for young people so that they can effectively further their businesses.

On leaving the UK, what will you take back to Uganda?

My trip to London, to CYP and to meet with David Constable, has been a dream come through. I feel energised and excited about the future. I have greater confidence and will always think big. I have been inspired by the enterprise conference and challenged to work extremely hard. I will give myself three years to be in a substantive position from the time that I officially launch my business. I leave the UK with knowledge, acquired notes and key contacts in the field of enterprise.

For more information about his candle making business, contact David at kingdavid2080@yahoo.com

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