Mercantile activities have long been integral to the economic and cultural growth of societies. Traders serve as vital links connecting different regions and civilizations. A large part of cultural exchange has historically occurred through commercial relationships, with the progress of history often traced along the routes traveled by these trade groups.
Today, we are witnessing a surge of young people entering the business sector. Strong ideas and the right guidance are crucial for success in this field. Business should not solely focus on the financial security and profit of an individual or their family; rather, it should aim to contribute positively to social empowerment. This is where businesses can truly thrive. Having a clear vision is essential.
The nature and methods of business have undergone significant changes, with non-traditional business ideas and frameworks now emerging. It is vital to stay updated, both ideologically and technically, to succeed in the evolving business world. Providing proper guidance to young entrepreneurs was the key focus of the Youth Business Conclave, organized by Solidarity Youth Movement at the Calicut Trade Center on Sunday, October 6.
Solidarity emphasizes the importance of ethics in business, which is crucial for socially-conscious economic growth. The business conclave not only highlighted the role of ethics but also offered valuable insights on how to balance business with personal life, family, social relationships, and political awareness—all while maintaining the right perspective on life.
The business expo and related activities began as early as 9 a.m. on Sunday. Over two thousand registered delegates arrived at the Trade Center, and the event officially commenced at 10 a.m. with a recitation by Muhammad Alee. Conclave Director P.B.M. Furmies enthusiastically welcomed the young entrepreneurs, calling them the hope of the community. In his presidential address, C.T. Suhaib, president of the Solidarity Youth Movement, explained the purpose of organizing the business conclave. He emphasized that it aimed to foster business growth rooted in values and social responsibility, providing a platform for businesses that prioritize ethics and social responsibility in commerce and industry.
The conclave was officially inaugurated by Jamat-e-Islami Ameer P. Mujeeburrahman. In his address, he stressed that young entrepreneurs have immense potential, especially in an era marked by rising Islamophobia and hate politics. He noted the significance of the conclave’s mission, which calls for energetic and dynamic youth to work for the survival and welfare of the nation. He urged everyone to support Solidarity in this endeavor.
Indian Union Muslim League’s three-time Rajya Sabha MP, P.V. Abdul Wahab, delivered the keynote address at the inaugural session. He criticized the current economic policies for benefiting only a select few and stressed the need for reform. The Youth Entrepreneur Award, introduced as part of the conclave, was presented to Impex M.D. C. Nuwais by Abdul Wahab. Following this, T.P. Salih, the state secretary of Solidarity, extended his thanks to the attendees.
Conclave Sessions
The program was held across three different venues. In the first venue, a session titled “The Honest Trader” was led by Jamaat-e-Islami Kerala State Committee member Nahas Mala. Nahas elaborated on the foundations of wealth and its management in the Islamic worldview, emphasizing that Allah’s sovereignty and ownership of wealth form the core of this perspective. He explained that humans are stewards of this wealth and stressed the importance of the honest trader (Tajir-us-Sadiq) in this context. Nahas also underscored the significance of Islamic economic principles, which prioritize the equitable distribution of wealth over its concentration.
Simultaneously, the second venue hosted a session on Islamic principles governing transactions. Speakers K.M. Ashraf, Dr. Ilyas Maulavi, and Sameer Kalikavu discussed various topics, including the foundations of business transactions, the prohibition of interest (riba), and the guidelines for distinguishing between halal and haram in business dealings.
The first session in the third venue addressed strategies for attracting investments to businesses. The session focused on shaping and presenting business ideas to appeal to investors, covering topics like understanding investors, conducting thorough research, formulating effective presentation strategies, identifying potential investors, and maintaining relationships with them. The speakers included M.A. Mehboob, Haris Padiyath, and V.K.M. Ashfaque.
Another session on marketing strategies, led by renowned business motivator Riyaz Hakeem, was particularly inspiring for the youth. This session, chaired by the president of the Solid Business Club, emphasized the critical importance of identifying and targeting a market for one’s business.
The “Meet the Visionaries” session, featuring prominent business figures like P.V. Abdul Wahab M.P., K.T.M.A. Salam, and others, was a highlight. It focused on the socio-political impact of wealth, social entrepreneurship, business mentoring, and the gradual growth of small enterprises into major businesses.
The startup session in Stage 3, led by Dr. V.M. Nishad and Yasser Khutb, attracted youth and students with engaging discussions and inquiries.
Jamaat-e-Islami Kerala Secretary Shihab Pookkottur led a session on “Historical Models of Value-Based Enterprises,” emphasizing how successful traders in Islamic history played a key role in spreading Islam and continue to inspire modern enterprises.
Another session on social media, featuring Ibad-ur-Rahman, Silvan Mustafa, and others, focused on leveraging social media to grow businesses effectively, beyond just gaining likes and comments.
“The Game Changers” session, moderated by Dr. V.M. Nishad, featured C. Nuwais, founder of Impex, who shared his journey from small entrepreneur to a leader in the electronics industry.
A session on the importance of design and visual appeal in business, led by Abdul Ghafoor Kapio and Bijith Ahmed, highlighted how crucial it is to present businesses attractively in today’s tech-driven world.
Another engaging session centered on the importance of financial discipline. It emphasized that meticulous financial planning and discipline are vital for business survival in today’s highly competitive industrial sector. Mismanagement in this area can result in high costs, loss of financial control, and eventual failure. The session covered topics such as managing cash flow, controlling expenses, financial planning, and ensuring accountability in every transaction. Guests included E. Mohammed Shafi (Minar), Mohammed Madani (ABC), Akbar Ali, and Talveer Muhiyuddeen.
A session titled “The Global Possibilities of Trade” explored the cross-continental opportunities in commerce. Speakers shared their experiences with trade ventures across various countries and continents, highlighting how to identify and leverage global commercial possibilities. V. Ajmal (Lamit), Jaffer Manalody, Bukhari Ibrahim, Yaseen Aslam, and K. Sahir led this insightful discussion.
The effective use of artificial intelligence (AI) is now crucial for rapid business growth. A workshop showcasing practical examples of AI applications in the business sector was held, featuring resource persons P.K. Imtiyaz and E.M. Amjad Ali.
Another session focused on the preparation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), which was particularly beneficial for new entrepreneurs. Mustakheem Karanath and Abdul Haleem guided participants through the essential steps in this area.
A session on the business potential of social empowerment highlighted how it goes beyond charity work and holds substantial entrepreneurial opportunities. The discussion touched on developing businesses through public involvement, branding products from various communities, transforming handicrafts into value-added products, empowering marginalized groups, and using community resources for both business growth and social upliftment. Visionaries shared practical experiences and opportunities in this domain.
The growing halal products market was the focus of another session, led by Shamim Sajad and O.K. Faris. It covered the increasing global demand for halal products, driven by the rising Muslim population in many regions. The speakers discussed how to organize businesses within this market while adhering to Shariah principles and maintaining ethical standards.
A session featuring K.A. Rashid (Ajmi), Noufal Narikkoli, Mariam Vidhuvijayan, and Tanveer Muhiyuddeen offered inspiring insights for the younger generation. These entrepreneurs shared their diverse experiences of achieving success and leading their businesses to growth.
Balancing work and life is a significant challenge for young entrepreneurs, and a session on this topic provided valuable guidance. Speakers K. Muhammad Najeeb and K.P. Salva offered training on managing business life, social responsibility, family, relationships, spirituality, mental health, and physical fitness, without compromising on any aspect.
Additionally, a session dedicated to providing financial training for small-scale entrepreneurs offered practical advice on how to navigate financial challenges in their ventures.
The closing session of the Youth Business Conclave was attended by notable political, social, and religious leaders. T. Arifali, Secretary General of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, inaugurated the session, with E.T. Mohammed Basheer MP and Advocate T. Siddique MLA as special guests. C.T. Suhaib presided over the event, and Taufiq Mampad gave the welcome address. Shabeer Koduvally, the General Convener of the conclave, delivered the closing remarks. The session concluded with a Mehfil (musical gathering), where popular ingers Razi and Saritha Rahman performed, delighting the audience.
Help Desks at the Conclave
To provide personalized support and counseling, several help desks operated throughout the conclave:
• Fiqh Desk: This desk offered personal counseling on religious matters related to business and life. Scholars such as Dr. Ilyas Maulavi, K.M. Ashraf, Sameer Kalikavu, and P.P. Jumail were available to address queries and provide guidance.
• Legal Desk: Entrepreneurs could seek advice on legal issues essential for the smooth operation of their ventures. Experts like Advocate Ameen Hassan, CA E. Roshan, and Advocate Abdul Wahid were present to clarify legalities surrounding business operations.
• Startup Desk: Aspiring entrepreneurs received insights into the practical and legal aspects of launching startups in India. Assistance was provided by Dr. V.M. Nishad, Yasser Khutb, and Abdul Adil Mohammed.
• MSME Desk: This desk introduced participants to various government schemes and opportunities. Experts such as Anees Ahmad, Mohammed Shehdad, Suhair Cyrus, and Abdul Haleem addressed inquiries and provided guidance on available resources.
A major highlight of the conclave was the interactive stalls set up by 100 selected young entrepreneurs from across Kerala. These stalls showcased businesses from various sectors, providing participants with a platform to connect and explore marketing opportunities.
The conclave also featured a dedicated networking area where attendees could share innovative ideas, secure funding and investments, and foster partnerships. This space was designed to facilitate collaboration and growth, with Solid Business Club and RIFA offering membership opportunities. It played a vital role in helping young entrepreneurs build meaningful connections and develop their ventures.
The conclave hosted 20 sessions across three venues, with over 100 guests participating in various discussions. The expansive Connecting Expo, featuring 100 interactive stalls, further enhanced the event’s impact. In summary, the Youth Business Conclave, organized by Solidarity, was a grand celebration of young entrepreneurship at Calicut Trade Center.
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