DESIGNER Carmel Rice is the first to sign up to the Journal’s 2011 If We Can, You Can Challenge as she aims to grow her jewellery and homeware business.

She wanted to join the growing online IWCYC community, which is organised by the Entrepreneurs’ Forum, to share her experiences and tell her entrepreneurial story with like-minded business owners.

Carmel developed the idea for her Tyneside company RiCERiCE while studying applied arts for enterprise at Cleveland College of Art and Design.

Carmel said: “Starting a business was always my intention when I embarked on the applied arts course. I’d previously studied fine art, textiles and fashion marketing before I realised my true calling.

“During my final year at university, I really honed my skills and came to the decision that what I really wanted was to design and create jewellery and interior decor.”

She launched RiCERiCE and has been trying to raise awareness of the business, which she said was one of her main reasons for joining the If We Can, You Can campaign.

“I have been saving money by working two part-time jobs and I have been able to invest the money earned into the initial materials and tools I need.

“I am also hoping to secure workspace within the college and make use of the college facilities in order to reduce cost,” she added.

Initially, she hopes to sell her wares locally in galleries and art shops, with a longer-term aim of building a well-recognised brand that is sold in major department stores, high-end boutiques and jewellery stores.

ANYONE who is interested in entering the 2011 If We Can, You Can challenge please visit: www.ifwecanyoucan.co.uk/challenge or call 0870 850 2233.