The BYU-Hawaii Enactus chapter started the semester hosting an opening social and BBQ that inspired the 100+ students in attendance on Wed., Sept. 10. Enactus is a national organization that empowers college students to use their education to look outside themselves and make a difference in the world. The BYUH chapter of Enactus has already gained national recognition. In April 2013, the BYUH chapter placed second in the USA National Enactus Competition.
Some members of the team were offered jobs and internships after the competition. The chapter is hoping to improve and come away with a first-place finish in the coming year, according to Enactus President Sery Kone. In his opening remarks at the social, Kone talked about this year’s Enactus chapter focusing on our community and state. He said, “Let me worry about Africa.
I will not let you take care of Africa if you can not take care of your own community.” Enactus projects this year will seek to help the community of Laie and the island of Oahu. Enactus has the potential to generate big changes and improvements in the community while offering valuable experience to the students.
Professor Paul Wilson, the academic advisor for the club, said Enactus is a great way to start a college career and gain important work experience in many different areas. “Enactus is about you. There are so many things that you can do to jump-start your future.” Kone enforced this idea while emphasizing that Enactus is not just for business majors. “It is for everyone if you are a biology major- we need you if you are a social work major- we need you, political science, peacebuilding or anything else- we need you.
It is not just about finance and accounting majors. We need everyone.” Ben Papeo, a transfer student from Italy, shared some of his thoughts from the opening social, “I love the core idea and the things that Enactus is trying to accomplish. I think it is really remarkable.” Get involved with Enactus every Wednesday at 7pm in the GCB.