Equipping and preparing the next generation of entrepreneurs by Paula Anderson Generally the path to entrepreneurship is either passed down from previous generations or it is learned when you enter high school or college.
Lamarie Banks and MEA students
Kelly D. Price, founder of the Memphis Entrepreneurship Academy (MEA), decided that youth in elementary and middle school were ready at younger ages to understand business principles. Price says, “I formed (MEA) because my grandchildren did not have anything to do one summer and this was also an opportunity to give other students a chance to be creative as well.” Students in the program meet twice a month to learn about creating a business plan, building a business and coding for technology-driven businesses.
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Aretha Hughes is a business management student at National College and has been focusing on entrepreneurship since 2007. One of her business projects is ACH Cruise Line Travels. She says, “My goal in my travel business is to take the stress of planning your next vacation. I want your travel experience to be memorable in positive ways, and to expand and enrich your life as nothing else can.” Hughes can assist with planning cruises to places like the Bahamas, Jamaica, Cozy Mel and Hawaii. “It is best to plan a year in advance to take your dream vacation,” adds Hughes. Entrepreneurship gives her the flexibility to control her own financial path and destiny. Aretha is a wife and mother of four children and is creating her own path as a business owner. Her words of encouragement are: “Live Your Dream”
Juan Wordlow is a 2017 graduate of National College. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at LeMoyne-Owen College. His ultimate goal is to become an entrepreneur and then help others pursue their dreams. “After college, I plan to attend real estate school and pursue community development and property administration, said Wordlow. “I have a strong passion for sales, marketing research, problem solving, creativity and entertainment.” “College has helped me to understand how to think and plan long-term for entrepreneurship,” states Wordlow.
