Webster Leiden Hosts Annual ‘Start Your Own Business’ Seminar

The “Start Your Own Business” seminar, held on April 18 at Webster Leiden’s Campus provided an opportunity for students and aspiring entrepreneurs to gain practical insights into the world of startups.

The Business & Management department of Webster Leiden, in partnership with Women’s Business Initiative International (WBII), facilitated an event aimed at cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and offering practical guidance for starting a business in the Netherlands and beyond. Industry experts Sinead Hewson, Frans Boumans, Madeleine van der Steege, and Caroline Orthlieb, in addition to guest speaker Tommaso Troiani, discussed various aspects of developing a successful business, from financial considerations to innovative marketing strategies.  

The seminar included two breakout sessions. Students had the opportunity to hear practical guidance about starting a business, tax matters, and reality checks. As part of the sessions, students were able to brainstorm with one another and industry professionals – giving young entrepreneurs the chance to ask questions, seek assistance, and receive feedback. Both sessions were well-received as participants found them to be insightful and relevant to their entrepreneurial endeavors. 

One of the biggest takeaways for students is that starting a business is not easy, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Hewson, professor at Webster Leiden and member of the advisory boards of WBII and the European Institute of Women’s Health, highlighted the importance of keeping it simple – explaining that entrepreneurs take action to carry out ideas as opposed to just envisioning them. “An entrepreneur is a doer, not a dreamer,” she noted.  

Troiani, the keynote speaker of the evening and CEO of ByeWaste, shared his personal journey as an entrepreneur that was marked by challenges and learning experiences. From starting as an expat in a new country to developing a meaningful business, he imparted three key lessons: build a team, leverage existing progress, and choose a business you’re passionate about. Troiani encouraged the audience to always pick themselves up and use setbacks as opportunities for growth.  

Attendees of the seminar called it a success. Industry professionals enjoyed sharing advice with young entrepreneurs, while students walked away feeling both inspired and excited for what awaits them as they embark on their own entrepreneurial journeys.