College entrepreneurs (L-R) Andreea Cretu, Chi Trinh, Azarah Francis-Nelson, Elcyia Lounguegue, Kane Walker, Benson Osejindu - Subject Lecturer and Personal Tutor, Marcia Hamilton - Curriculum Manager for Business & Accounts, Cynthia Lukuni, Nassima Bouchelkia, Francine McArthur, Wisdom Anderson 

Nine College students returned triumphant last week with an award for ‘The Best Business Enterprise Idea for London Schools and Colleges 2010’.

The group of students entered the awards, run by the Institute of Directors’ (IoD) Central London Branch as an initiative for Business Enterprise Week.

The College students beat off stiff competition with their prototype of a photoframe, which allows viewers to see a specially treated photograph from both sides of the frame.

Known as C’ Fru the students have created a variety of the frameless frames which all allow customers to see their pictures from either side.

The judges, comprising IoD Chartered Directors and Members, and Angels Den, a leading Angel investment network were wowed by the students’ attractively presented prototype.

As well as being impressed with the innovative product, which Angels Den is interested in presenting to its investors, they were also impressed with the highly professional business plan, excellent attention to corporate image for themselves and their product - and a great attitude towards team working.

The nine students, each in their second year, Azarah Francis-Nelson, Nassima Bouchelkia, Chi Trinh, Andreea Cretu, Francine McArthur, Wisdom Anderson, Cynthia Lukuni and Elcya Lounguegue and Kane Walker, are all studying Business BTEC Diploma Level 3, which is equivalent to studying three A Levels.

Consultants Ian Shipman, Regional Director for London and South East Angels Den and Umesh Mistry from the Mayors Consultancy were on hand to offer expert coaching and advice to the students on the day. The prizewinner’s cup was presented by David Storrie, Rotary in London’s District Governor and will be engraved with the College’s name. Consultants

Azarah Francis-Nelson (pictured top right in the group photo) said: “We put our whole pitch, presentation and prototype together in two weeks.  It’s been a fantastically exciting time and now we really want to work with the Angel’s to see if we can market this product successfully.”

The nine budding entrepreneurs were accompanied by their thrilled tutors, Business Curriculum Manager, Marcia Hamilton and Subject Lecturer and Personal Tutor, Benson Osejindu.

Marcia said: “The College is so pleased for our students, but without doubt this group was head and shoulders above the rest – even if I do say so myself.  The team worked fantastically well together and truly achieved excellence.”

The exciting event took place at the IoD’s headquarters in Pall Mall.