The Young Entrepreneurs Academy is a competitive 16-week program that provides a focused introduction to the business world, combining a dynamic, proven curriculum with the experiences of local industry leaders, community members, educators, and entrepreneurs. The goal of all YEA! classes is for each student to launch their own business successfully.

During my internship, I had the opportunity to turn my passion project, Charmed by You, into a real business. Through the program, I learned how to refine my brand vision, create a business model, and pitch to investors at the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, where I earned $1,200 in funding and placed second overall, later advancing to the YEA! National Competition. Guided by incredible mentors like Danielle Wiseman, Dr. Janet Leslie, and Cory Schifter from Casale Jewels, I developed not only my business but also my confidence as a young entrepreneur. Since completing the program, Charmed by You has continued to grow — expanding collections, building an online presence, and empowering people to wear their stories with pride.

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LEADERSHIP AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP THROUGH COMPETITION