Enterprise Nation

Ila Panik is the founder of U4U, a membership club that supports the development of healthy, happy, confident and capable young ladies. Ila knows all about confidence and being capable. She is a former professional dancer, Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor, London Business School graduate and serial entrepreneur. We chat to her on this Bank Holiday Monday and find her in the throes of organising a big event.

When did you start u4u?

I had the idea about 10 years ago during a time when I was teaching in a ballet company and working with many teen girls. I began working full time on U4U around October/November of 2008.

What does the company do?

The company is a members club for girls aged 11-18…a positive development program built upon four pillars: fitness, kindness, culture and environment. Members attend weekly meetings, engage in peer mentoring, participate in small businesses and can access professional coaching.

What were you doing before becoming your own boss?

I was working for a business management consultancy as a consultant and business developer. More specifically, I was starting a Carbon Management program to engage employees in reducing carbon emissions.

How did you come up with the idea for girlation?

Having worked with a variety of teen girls I felt that many of them had such potential and opportunity… but that society and their peer structure could really hinder their opportunity for success and happiness. I have always loved business and do see it as a great vehicle to make positive change. I moved to London to study at the London Business School for my MBA and through the combination of my historical work with teen girls, understanding of entrepreneurship and personal motivation to contribute to a brighter future, I’ve decided that U4U is my path. To launch U4U, my team and I decided to host a large event which would specifically appeal to teen girls. We thought this would be a great way to get the word out there and start off with a party!

Who should come along to the launch event and what can they expect on the day?

All girls between the ages of 11-18 should come to Girlation. We have included activities in the event which should appeal to all types of girls. They should expect entertainment, fun activities, tips on environment, fitness, relationships, culture…all the fun stuff you might read about in a teen magazine, but in real life!! All led by our great hosts Carole Machin and Kate Edmondson as seen together on MTV.

What are your other business plans and projects for 2009?

After the launch we will run a 4 week pilot program with 20 lucky girls. We will have a few activities during the summer and then have a full launch of the members club with the school year in Aug 09.

What is the one thing you most enjoy about running the business from home?

Working in a relaxed and comfortable environment, having my little dog Cosmo as my assistant, taking a jog mid day when I really need to relieve some stress and then have a clear mind to continue working hard in the afternoon… quite a few reasons I would say!

Ila Panik talks to Emma Jones

• U4U.co.uk