Harkirn Khaila

Harkirn Khaila, Business Volunteer

Leaving behind a successful career in television to pursue her dreams, Harkirn launched the HOX fashion label and boutique in January 2009. Setting up the business was going back to her roots and following her passion.

Shortly after setting up the boutique, Hox was asked to become a judge at the local Company Programme awards. After seeing all the fantastic work that goes into, and comes out of, Company Programme, she became a regular Young Enterprise Business Volunteer.

“It’s early days for me but I’ve already seen so many benefits and rewards. I think the biggest is being able to share my experiences both good and bad with the students. They are also so creative and full of energy that I'm encouraged to be more adventurous myself. It’s a two-way relationship where we learn from each other.

“I think most students don’t think about setting up in business as a career option when they are at school and the Young Enterprise Programmes change that. Even if as a result of doing it they decide it’s not for them, they have still learnt so many life skills –team work, leadership, organisation and presentation skills – which they can only benefit from.

“Students have an image of business as a corporate world full of men and women in suits sitting in boardrooms; It’s great to be able to show young people another side to business.”