In 2025, solidarity and entrepreneurship intertwine in an inspiring way. Within the Jeanne-d’Arc college in Crozon, a group of middle school students decided to embark on a unique adventure: to create a mini-company to serve humanitarian projects. This project, named “Plantocho,” aims to fund the construction of a well in Benin, demonstrating their commitment to a solidarity cause. The young students, guided by their teacher, are mobilizing around this initiative and give meaning to their learning while developing valuable professional skills.
But what motivated these students to engage in such a path? How do their activities unfold? And what are the steps of this solidary and innovative process? This article will delve into this adventure while exploring the various facets of social entrepreneurship.
A solidary project initiated by inspired middle school students
The Jeanne-d’Arc college has always emphasized engagement within its community. With the “Professional Discovery” option, it promotes initiative and entrepreneurship among young people. This year, the technology teacher, Sophie Gauthey, saw incredible potential in her third-year students. Motivated by a strong desire to act for others, 20 middle school students decided to create “Plantocho.”
Tilio Le Nain Rolland, one of the students and the young CEO, explains the process: “We were selected during an interview with a professional, and everyone then chose a role in the team. My goal is to navigate through all the roles. Our team is dynamic, attentive, and supportive.”
The humanitarian mission: funding a well in Benin
The heart of the “Plantocho” project is ambitious and commendable: to build a well in Benin in collaboration with the MJ for Children association. The young students quickly understood the importance of this initiative for vulnerable communities facing challenges in accessing drinking water.
Every week, the group meets to advance their various missions. They make hot water bottles from barley seeds and recycled fabric, as well as bread bags, the proceeds of which will be donated to the project. This approach allows them not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness among their peers about ecological and solidarity issues.
To capture the public’s interest and maximize their yield, the students are working to develop their skills in marketing, communication, and management, essential areas for a mini-company.
List of roles within the company:
- Financial Manager: responsible for finances and budgets.
- Communication Officer: in charge of promotion and the company’s image.
- Production Manager: oversees the manufacturing of products.
- Project Coordinator: ensures the overall functioning of the company.
- Human Resources: manages interpersonal relationships within the team.
Support and encouragement for social entrepreneurship
As part of their project, the students from Jeanne-d’Arc benefit from valuable support from their establishment and external organizations. Their participation in the Local Life Trophy organized by Crédit Agricole was a revealing experience. Competing against other teams, they asserted their project and their ability to act collectively.
“We finished second in this competition, and it allowed us to receive a check for €300. This represents essential support for our project,” affirms Tilio. This external recognition values their hard work and determination to bring about positive change in favor of solidarity with Benin.
Steps towards a gold label
The path to the success of “Plantocho” does not stop there. The students aim to obtain the gold label at the Mini-Enterprise Fair in Carhaix, scheduled for May 15, 2025. This goal aims to reward the excellence of projects carried out by young entrepreneurs while encouraging them to continue their efforts.
The selection criteria for the label include product quality, social and environmental impact, as well as financial viability. This pushes the students to invest fully in their work and understand the importance of these different aspects in entrepreneurship.
Table of steps towards the gold label:
| Step | Objective | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Product manufacturing | Produce hot water bottles and bread bags | From now until the Fair |
| Promotion | Make themselves known to the public | Throughout the month prior to the event |
| Preparation of the presentation | Highlight their project and its impact | Two weeks before the Fair |
| Participation in the Fair | Present “Plantocho” and obtain the gold label | May 15, 2025 |
The path to a collective awareness
The “Plantocho” project is not just a simple entrepreneurial initiative; it carries a broader vision. By working on this project, the students learn essential values such as solidarity, cooperation, and sensitivity to global issues. These lessons go far beyond the classroom.
This commitment encourages young people to reflect on their impact as individuals and future citizens. They realize that even at a young age, they can play a role in change and improving the living conditions of others.
Promoting a culture of entrepreneurship
The activities conducted within the framework of “Plantocho” also highlight the importance of encouraging a culture of entrepreneurship within schools. These initiatives help create a link between education and action. Young people can apply their knowledge while developing valuable skills.
Taking initiative is reinforced by connections with professionals during their trip. This gives them insight into the business world and allows them to understand how social impact projects work.
Key elements of a successful entrepreneurial culture:
- Encouragement of creativity: Providing spaces where ideas can be expressed.
- Partnerships with businesses: Establishing relationships with professionals to enhance learning.
- Education on social impact: Raising awareness among young people about their potential influence on society.
- Mentorship: Setting up a system where seasoned entrepreneurs can guide the youth.
Engagement and results: the future of “Plantocho”
Through their mini-company, the students from Jeanne-d’Arc are shaping a solid and responsible future. Their project illustrates how community engagement and entrepreneurship can enrich the aspirations of youth. By supporting humanitarian initiatives, these young people become aware of the power of collective action.
With the growing support of their surroundings, they wish to continue to develop new projects that will extend their commitment to solidarity. The lessons learned during this adventure will accompany them far beyond the school context as they evolve into future actors of change.
Next steps for the success of “Plantocho”:
- Networking reinforcement: Establishing contacts with other mini-companies and organizations.
- Diversification of products: Exploring new product ideas to manufacture and market.
- Impact assessment: Tracking progress made on the well construction project.
- Ongoing awareness: Continuing efforts to raise awareness about water and environmental issues.
Through initiatives like this, the students of Jeanne-d’Arc demonstrate that one can have a significant impact on our world, even at a young age. Their project shows that with dedication and good organization, every voice counts, and every action matters.
FAQ
What is “Plantocho”?
“Plantocho” is a mini-company created by middle school students from Jeanne-d’Arc college in Crozon, aimed at financing the construction of a well in Benin by manufacturing and selling ecological products.
How do the students finance their project?
They finance their project by selling hot water bottles made from recycled materials and bread bags, while also receiving financial support from external organizations.
What are the roles within the team?
Each member has a defined role, ranging from financial manager to production manager, allowing them to discover different aspects of entrepreneurship.
What skills do the students develop with this project?
They develop skills in financial management, communication, marketing, and awareness of social and environmental issues.
What are the next steps for “Plantocho”?
The next steps include developing new products, participating in events, and assessing their impact on the well construction project.
