Young entrepreneurial minds are being encouraged to set up their own business with support from the chamber of commerce.

The Barking and Dagenham Chamber of Commerce in Cambridge Road, Barking, is looking for new members to join its ‘Young Chamber of Commerce’, aimed at supporting and developing local business talent and ambition.

Business brains aged between 16 and 25 are invited to meet and greet like-minded individuals at an introductory event tomorrow, from 5 – 7 pm, at the Technical Skills Academy in Barking.

Former member Seun Oshinaike, who now runs Barking social enterprise Brighter Steppings, will be speaking along with executive committee members of the chamber Mark Bass and Jamie Banks.

Mary Clements of the Barking and Dagenham Chamber of Commerce said: “Young entrepreneurs are the business leaders of tomorrow.

“Running your own business enables you to make day-to-day decisions and set the direction of the culture and path of your business.”

In order to join the Young Chamber potential future members must be aged between 16 and 25 and eager to start up their own business or be already running one. However, residency within the borough is not a necessity.

Membership will include quarterly meetings offering the chance to engage with members of the adult Chamber who will offer assistance and advice on how to run a successful business, including work shadowing opportunities.

If you’re interested in taking part at any stage, email Mary Clements at mary@bdchamber.co.uk or call 0208 591 6966. If you’re a student, speak with your teacher or lecturer for additional help to get involved.