Sheraa, a launch pad for young entrepreneurs in the UAE, has collaborated with app-based car service Careem to offers student an opportunity to develop a detailed marketing plan for start-ups.

The marketing challenge presented students with an opportunity to complete a three-month internship programme at the company headquarters, and implement their winning idea.

“At Sheraa, we strongly believe in infusing a positive entrepreneurial spirit in today’s youth. By introducing students to the world of start-ups, Sheraa aims to invest in the leaders of tomorrow through education beyond the classroom,” said Najla Al-Midfa, general manager of Sheraa.

“Through collaboration with successful entrepreneurs and organizations, we want to inspire students to utilize and channel their creativity to achieve tangible benefits which have a positive social and financial impact on the community.”

The marketing challenge attracted applications from over twenty-five teams. In the preliminary round ten teams were chosen, of which five teams were shortlisted for the final round. Careem awarded the final winners of the challenge - Huda al Ali, Aisha Usman and Abdullah Malek, credits worth Dh10,000 ($2,721). The winning team was also awarded Dh10,000 cash reward for successfully implementing their marketing plan.

"As the fastest growing company in the region, Careem is in a unique position to offer a Silicon Valley-like start up experience right here in the UAE. Our cooperation with Sheraa for the marketing challenge and our summer internship program was an important step towards achieving our mission of building an institution that inspires. The interns brought a new perspective to our marketing strategy and we are proud to see them grow and develop their skills with us”, said Aura Lunde, general manager – Careem UAE.

Sheraa is a valuable component of the UAE’s growing ecosystem. Sheraa’s initiatives, which help sustain and grow new businesses, are important especially as self-employment among the region’s youth gains popularity. – TradeArabia News Service