RIYADH: The Riyadh Chamber of Commerce on Monday celebrated the 15th anniversary of its Youth Business Committee. Speakers at the ceremony praised the role of the committee and its members’ efforts in encouraging young entrepreneurs to come forward and contribute to the economy of the country. Ajlan Al-Ajlan, the chairman of the board of directors, said: “Since the establishment of the committee it has continuously supported entrepreneurial projects, while seeking to achieve a number of goals such as activating the participation of the new generation in enriching economic movement, and developing business sectors.” The committee’s objectives are to develop young entrepreneurs both male and female and to help them overcome challenges by conducting field research, organizing discussion panels and launching supportive programs and initiatives. Ali Al-Othaim, a member of the Riyadh Chamber, said: “The committee represented a platform for youth in business, and a platform to spread the culture of self-employment. In addition, the committee is launching a number of initiatives during the first quarter of 2020.” Saudi Labor Minister Ahmed Al-Rajhi vowed to support new entrants and existing businesses. The Riyadh Chamber’s most important initiative is the e-services portal (My Business Gate). Sharing her experience with the e-service, Princess Sara Al Saud, a Saudi entrepreneur, said: “At first when I used the e-services, I thought it was too difficult to use, but once you get familiarized with it, it becomes easy.” She said the online platform saves people’s time and is a helpful tool. The Riyadh Chamber has also adopted outsourcing initiatives to achieve the goals of Vision 2030, to reduce unemployment in the Kingdom and to boost the private sector. One of the many initiatives launched by the chamber is a program in collaboration with the Saudi Cloud community developers which aims to train 1,000 young men and women.