Blue Region
GOLD - Gabriela Diaz
SILVER - Angella Pulido Carbajal
BRONZE - Mia Mendizabal Sanchez
Burgundy Region
GOLD - Anna Carothers
SILVER - Caleb Peña
BRONZE - Daniel Guajardo
Green Region
GOLD - Matias Aviñó
SILVER - Maia Marull
BRONZE - Federico Sammataro
Orange Region
GOLD - Angel Fontanez Jr.
SILVER - Alan Cortes
BRONZE - Maria Morales
Pink Region
GOLD - Celeste Santiago-Sacarello
SILVER - Julianna Jara
BRONZE - Cecilia Amial
Purple Region
GOLD - Estela Jauregui Jauregui
SILVER - Taylor Luna
BRONZE - Christina Chavez
Red Region
GOLD - Angie Tirado
SILVER - Brenda Betances
BRONZE - Aliyah Delgado
Tan Region
GOLD - Joel A. Esparra Díaz
SILVER - Christian Fonseca
BRONZE - Manuel Rodríguez
Teal Region
GOLD - Samantha Diaz Soto
SILVER - Joanna Perez-Hernandez
BRONZE - Sofia Mejia
Yellow Region
GOLD - Sydney Prentice
SILVER - Kaleb Watts
BRONZE - Elisa LeGere
Blue Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Gabriela Diaz
GOLD
Gabriela Diaz
College: New York University, Fordham University, Columbia University
Major: Business Technology with a minor in Cinema Studies
High School: High Tech High School
Hometown: Union City, NJ
Hispanic Heritage: Cuban
Turning flour into funds and sweet confections into social change, Gabriela Diaz has baked up a recipe for entrepreneurial success that’s equal parts business savvy and community impact. Her proudest achievement, Gaby’s Boulangerie, turned her passion for pastries into $1,500 in donations for Feeding America. Growing up hearing her family’s stories of hardship and food scarcity in Cuba, Gabriela knew exactly how to channel her entrepreneurial spirit into meaningful action. This first-generation Cuban-American’s mission to combat food insecurity one baked good at a time shows how personal history can inspire business ventures with purpose.
The kitchen isn’t the only place where Gabriela’s business acumen rises to the occasion. The entrepreneurial spirit runs through Gabriela’s veins like cafecito through a Cuban coffee maker. At High Tech High School, she secured a paid internship with the Administrative Clerk, where she manages school advertising, creates marketing materials, designs presentations, and oversees finances for fundraisers. Talk about a full plate! Her digital savvy extends to Pinterest, where she’s amassed an impressive 28,000 monthly viewers, showcasing her photography skills while promoting brands.
Her entrepreneurial ventures extend to e-commerce as well. Through her Etsy shop, Gabriela sells handmade jewelry, clay magnets, and custom art—merging e-commerce with creative interests while connecting with diverse audiences. She’s also currently competing in “The Greatest Baker” competition with Buddy Valastro (yes, THE Cake Boss), she’s vying for a $20,000 grand prize, magazine spread, and a chance to meet the master baker himself. The competition’s donations support families dealing with childhood cancer, further cementing Gabriela’s commitment to businesses that serve a greater purpose.
The rhythm of entrepreneurship beats loudly in Gabriela’s heart, a melody passed down from her family. “My family, once dancing through the streets of Santiago De Cuba, had their rhythm revoked due to Communism,” she reflects. Her mother, just 23 years old, made the arduous journey to America, working three jobs in a country whose language she hardly knew. This legacy of resilience shapes Gabriela’s business philosophy, pushing her to create ventures that address social issues while bridging cultural gaps.
Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Gabriela demonstrates exceptional leadership in her community. She has spearheaded food, clothing, and toy drives at St. Augustine’s Roman Catholic Church, where she has also helped raise money and made and served meals and baked goods for low-income families. Her service extends to donating over 100 books to her local library and tutoring underprivileged youth. Her tutoring program for underprivileged youth includes STEM and English-based lessons, along with group lectures reaching approximately 70 students. As if that weren’t enough, she created a mental health column in her school newsletter, allowing students to anonymously seek advice while expressing themselves through art and poetry
The classroom offers another stage for Gabriela to shine. With a 3.90 unweighted GPA and coursework including AP Literature and Composition, French Honors Society, and Theater Arts Dual Enrollment, her academic strengths match her entrepreneurial drive. Her math and physics teacher, Sabrina Vargas, describes her as “perceptive, sharp, and quick-minded” with a “desire for problem-solving” that allows her to approach challenges from multiple angles. “She is the student I can count on when no one else is brave or willing to answer a question,” Vargas notes, highlighting Gabriela’s intellectual curiosity and “willingness to take risks.” A Latina of many hats, Gabriela balances her studies with her talents as an actress, dancer, singer, and backstage crew member.
Gabriela aims to continue her entrepreneurial journey at New York University, Fordham University, or Columbia University, where she plans to major in business technology with a minor in cinema studies. Her ultimate dream? Building her own baking empire with branded products and stores across the globe.
Gabriela Diaz
College: New York University, Fordham University, Columbia University
Major: Business Technology with a minor in Cinema Studies
High School: High Tech High School
Hometown: Union City, NJ
Hispanic Heritage: Cuban
Turning flour into funds and sweet confections into social change, Gabriela Diaz has baked up a recipe for entrepreneurial success that’s equal parts business savvy and community impact. Her proudest achievement, Gaby’s Boulangerie, turned her passion for pastries into $1,500 in donations for Feeding America. Growing up hearing her family’s stories of hardship and food scarcity in Cuba, Gabriela knew exactly how to channel her entrepreneurial spirit into meaningful action. This first-generation Cuban-American’s mission to combat food insecurity one baked good at a time shows how personal history can inspire business ventures with purpose.
The kitchen isn’t the only place where Gabriela’s business acumen rises to the occasion. The entrepreneurial spirit runs through Gabriela’s veins like cafecito through a Cuban coffee maker. At High Tech High School, she secured a paid internship with the Administrative Clerk, where she manages school advertising, creates marketing materials, designs presentations, and oversees finances for fundraisers. Talk about a full plate! Her digital savvy extends to Pinterest, where she’s amassed an impressive 28,000 monthly viewers, showcasing her photography skills while promoting brands.
Her entrepreneurial ventures extend to e-commerce as well. Through her Etsy shop, Gabriela sells handmade jewelry, clay magnets, and custom art—merging e-commerce with creative interests while connecting with diverse audiences. She’s also currently competing in “The Greatest Baker” competition with Buddy Valastro (yes, THE Cake Boss), she’s vying for a $20,000 grand prize, magazine spread, and a chance to meet the master baker himself. The competition’s donations support families dealing with childhood cancer, further cementing Gabriela’s commitment to businesses that serve a greater purpose.
The rhythm of entrepreneurship beats loudly in Gabriela’s heart, a melody passed down from her family. “My family, once dancing through the streets of Santiago De Cuba, had their rhythm revoked due to Communism,” she reflects. Her mother, just 23 years old, made the arduous journey to America, working three jobs in a country whose language she hardly knew. This legacy of resilience shapes Gabriela’s business philosophy, pushing her to create ventures that address social issues while bridging cultural gaps.
Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Gabriela demonstrates exceptional leadership in her community. She has spearheaded food, clothing, and toy drives at St. Augustine’s Roman Catholic Church, where she has also helped raise money and made and served meals and baked goods for low-income families. Her service extends to donating over 100 books to her local library and tutoring underprivileged youth. Her tutoring program for underprivileged youth includes STEM and English-based lessons, along with group lectures reaching approximately 70 students. As if that weren’t enough, she created a mental health column in her school newsletter, allowing students to anonymously seek advice while expressing themselves through art and poetry
The classroom offers another stage for Gabriela to shine. With a 3.90 unweighted GPA and coursework including AP Literature and Composition, French Honors Society, and Theater Arts Dual Enrollment, her academic strengths match her entrepreneurial drive. Her math and physics teacher, Sabrina Vargas, describes her as “perceptive, sharp, and quick-minded” with a “desire for problem-solving” that allows her to approach challenges from multiple angles. “She is the student I can count on when no one else is brave or willing to answer a question,” Vargas notes, highlighting Gabriela’s intellectual curiosity and “willingness to take risks.” A Latina of many hats, Gabriela balances her studies with her talents as an actress, dancer, singer, and backstage crew member.
Gabriela aims to continue her entrepreneurial journey at New York University, Fordham University, or Columbia University, where she plans to major in business technology with a minor in cinema studies. Her ultimate dream? Building her own baking empire with branded products and stores across the globe.
SILVER - Angella Pulido Carbajal
SILVER
Angella Pulido Carbajal
College: Drexel University, American University, Temple University
Major: Business Administration on a pre-law track with a minor in Fashion Design
High School: Glenelg High School
Hometown: Ellicott City, MD
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Struck by the scarce representation of Mexican women in entrepreneurship, Angella Pulido Carbajal decided to change the landscape herself. “I often do not see women of Mexican descent strive for the business field,” she explains, turning that observation into motivation to launch her social media management venture. This young business owner didn’t merely identify a gap—she filled it, helping local real estate agents expand their client base through strategic content creation, posting schedules, and SEO-optimized captions for platforms like TikTok.
While many teenagers were navigating social media for fun, Angella was handling invoices, managing payments, and building client relationships for profit. She didn’t learn these skills in conventional classrooms—she taught herself through YouTube videos and invested in an online Wharton marketing class, applying these lessons directly to her growing enterprise.
Just as she spotted a gap in business representation, Angella identified another missing piece at Glenelg High School (GHS)—a space for Hispanic students. Taking action, she founded the school’s first-ever Hispanic Student Union in the institution’s 65-year history. “This brought attention to those who are Hispanic/Latinx at GHS, especially given that Glenelg is a white-dominated school where there is little diversity,” she shares. Her initiative caught the attention of Howard County’s Hispanic achievement liaison, who now works with Angella to develop better approaches for supporting Hispanic students.
During the holiday season, the Hispanic Student Union fundraises by selling traditional candies and baked goods, using the proceeds to purchase items for families in need through a local Hispanic-led church. Angella also helps plan sandwiches for homeless shelters and volunteered with Project Holiday, serving as her county’s student leader for the organization, to brighten the season for seniors in 50+ centers who receive few visitors. Her community service extends beyond the Hispanic Student Union. Working with the Haute Couture Club, which she co-created during her freshman year, she spearheaded Glenelg’s first prom dress drive, collecting 40 dresses for students who couldn’t afford them.
As if running a business and founding a student union and a fashion club weren’t enough, Angella has served on the Policy 9250 committee, providing student perspective on firearms in school-sponsored environments—helping shape the policy which will be implemented across Howard County by 2025. Her inclusion on this committee speaks to her ability to represent student voices on critical safety issues affecting educational spaces.
Angella has made waves through Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) at Glenelg High. Under the FBLA banner, she created “Amate,” a clothing brand concept focused on loungewear with a purpose. The brand’s name—Spanish for “love yourself”—reflects her mission to support those struggling with their mental health. The concept blends fashion with mental health awareness, creating clothing that serves as a gentle reminder for self-care. Angella’s business plan for “Amate” earned her 3rd place regionally and 5th place at the Maryland state FBLA competition. Now in her third year with the organization, she mentors new competitors, sharing knowledge gained from her own competitive experiences and business classes.
Nominated as a National Honor Society officer for 2024 and recognized as Student of the Month in numerous occasions, Angella’s leadership qualities continue to earn recognition. Growing from a middle school student who “did not particularly pay attention to education” to a high schooler committed to challenging herself, this committed Latina has come a long way. Her academic journey includes a rigorous schedule, including AP Art History, AP Psychology, dual enrollment courses in Ethics in Literature and English, numerous honors classes, and more.
“Angella has consistently sought opportunities to increase the level of challenge in her coursework, displaying a strong desire for personal and academic growth,” writes her school counselor, Carolyn P. Devlin. “Her proactive approach to higher education highlights her independence and determination to excel.” Education now holds special significance for Angella, whose parents’ circumstances in Mexico didn’t allow them to complete their formal education. "I knew that I needed to change statistics for myself and had to set myself on the correct path to do so,” she reflects.
Her mission extends beyond her own success—she aims to change stereotypes that limit Hispanic students’ educational opportunities. “Administrators and educators do not push for people who are Latinx to go on to higher education,” she observes, noting that these students are often overlooked for programs like Gifted and Talented. She actively counters this by connecting Hispanic students with opportunities, from volunteer positions that fulfill graduation requirements to college application assistance for fellow first-generation students.
Looking forward, she plans to attend Drexel University, American University, or Temple University, where she plans to study business administration on a pre-law track with a minor in fashion design—combining her entrepreneurial vision with both legal expertise and creative talent. For Angella, it’s all about creating paths where none existed before—whether in business, education, or community representation.
Angella Pulido Carbajal
College: Drexel University, American University, Temple University
Major: Business Administration on a pre-law track with a minor in Fashion Design
High School: Glenelg High School
Hometown: Ellicott City, MD
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Struck by the scarce representation of Mexican women in entrepreneurship, Angella Pulido Carbajal decided to change the landscape herself. “I often do not see women of Mexican descent strive for the business field,” she explains, turning that observation into motivation to launch her social media management venture. This young business owner didn’t merely identify a gap—she filled it, helping local real estate agents expand their client base through strategic content creation, posting schedules, and SEO-optimized captions for platforms like TikTok.
While many teenagers were navigating social media for fun, Angella was handling invoices, managing payments, and building client relationships for profit. She didn’t learn these skills in conventional classrooms—she taught herself through YouTube videos and invested in an online Wharton marketing class, applying these lessons directly to her growing enterprise.
Just as she spotted a gap in business representation, Angella identified another missing piece at Glenelg High School (GHS)—a space for Hispanic students. Taking action, she founded the school’s first-ever Hispanic Student Union in the institution’s 65-year history. “This brought attention to those who are Hispanic/Latinx at GHS, especially given that Glenelg is a white-dominated school where there is little diversity,” she shares. Her initiative caught the attention of Howard County’s Hispanic achievement liaison, who now works with Angella to develop better approaches for supporting Hispanic students.
During the holiday season, the Hispanic Student Union fundraises by selling traditional candies and baked goods, using the proceeds to purchase items for families in need through a local Hispanic-led church. Angella also helps plan sandwiches for homeless shelters and volunteered with Project Holiday, serving as her county’s student leader for the organization, to brighten the season for seniors in 50+ centers who receive few visitors. Her community service extends beyond the Hispanic Student Union. Working with the Haute Couture Club, which she co-created during her freshman year, she spearheaded Glenelg’s first prom dress drive, collecting 40 dresses for students who couldn’t afford them.
As if running a business and founding a student union and a fashion club weren’t enough, Angella has served on the Policy 9250 committee, providing student perspective on firearms in school-sponsored environments—helping shape the policy which will be implemented across Howard County by 2025. Her inclusion on this committee speaks to her ability to represent student voices on critical safety issues affecting educational spaces.
Angella has made waves through Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) at Glenelg High. Under the FBLA banner, she created “Amate,” a clothing brand concept focused on loungewear with a purpose. The brand’s name—Spanish for “love yourself”—reflects her mission to support those struggling with their mental health. The concept blends fashion with mental health awareness, creating clothing that serves as a gentle reminder for self-care. Angella’s business plan for “Amate” earned her 3rd place regionally and 5th place at the Maryland state FBLA competition. Now in her third year with the organization, she mentors new competitors, sharing knowledge gained from her own competitive experiences and business classes.
Nominated as a National Honor Society officer for 2024 and recognized as Student of the Month in numerous occasions, Angella’s leadership qualities continue to earn recognition. Growing from a middle school student who “did not particularly pay attention to education” to a high schooler committed to challenging herself, this committed Latina has come a long way. Her academic journey includes a rigorous schedule, including AP Art History, AP Psychology, dual enrollment courses in Ethics in Literature and English, numerous honors classes, and more.
“Angella has consistently sought opportunities to increase the level of challenge in her coursework, displaying a strong desire for personal and academic growth,” writes her school counselor, Carolyn P. Devlin. “Her proactive approach to higher education highlights her independence and determination to excel.” Education now holds special significance for Angella, whose parents’ circumstances in Mexico didn’t allow them to complete their formal education. "I knew that I needed to change statistics for myself and had to set myself on the correct path to do so,” she reflects.
Her mission extends beyond her own success—she aims to change stereotypes that limit Hispanic students’ educational opportunities. “Administrators and educators do not push for people who are Latinx to go on to higher education,” she observes, noting that these students are often overlooked for programs like Gifted and Talented. She actively counters this by connecting Hispanic students with opportunities, from volunteer positions that fulfill graduation requirements to college application assistance for fellow first-generation students.
Looking forward, she plans to attend Drexel University, American University, or Temple University, where she plans to study business administration on a pre-law track with a minor in fashion design—combining her entrepreneurial vision with both legal expertise and creative talent. For Angella, it’s all about creating paths where none existed before—whether in business, education, or community representation.
BRONZE - Mia Mendizabal Sanchez
BRONZE
Mia Mendizaba Sanchez
College: George Washington University, Babson College, University of Virginia
Major: Business Economics with a minor in International Relations
High School: John Champe High School
Hometown: Stone Ridge, VA
Hispanic Heritage: Peruvian & Argentine
For Mia Mendizaba Sanchez, the dive into entrepreneuship started with watching her father attend client consultations for his construction business, Racing Painting. Behind the brushstrokes and paint cans, young Mia observed important entrepreneurial skills—customer relationship management, clear communication, and the art of building trust, not just walls. “Watching him work taught me the value of selling not just a service, but your confidence and trust with it,” she shares. “He showed me that lasting success in business is built on reputation and networking.” She now treasures these early lessons from her father, for planting entrepreneurial seeds and building her foundation in business.
This young Latina of Peruvian and Argentine heritage took her business acumen to new heights when selected as a scholar in the Global Summer Learning Institute LEADership Entrepreneurship Program at St. Francis University in New York City. During this intensive two-week program, Mia took on the role of CFO for her team’s community-focused business proposal, applying practical skills while learning to view business as a tool for positive change. The experience placed her in boardrooms with industry leaders, where conversations about strategic growth in global markets sparked her imagination and bolstered her entrepreneurial ambitions.
Recognizing a gap in cultural representation at her school, Mia founded the Hispanic Student Association (HSA), creating a space where Latino students could connect with their heritage and each other. Despite administrative hurdles that delayed the club’s formation for over a year, her persistence paid off—the club now boasts 50 members and counting. Under her leadership, HSA hosts monthly educational presentations on Hispanic culture, traditions, and language, along with cooking demonstrations and cultural celebrations. Her efforts earned her the Student Leader Recognition award, acknowledging her contribution to enhancing cultural awareness and building community.
Mia’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond the classroom. For five years, she has run her own babysitting business, developing client relationships and managing her services independently. She also has a four-year tutoring service, where she especially enjoys helping Spanish-speaking students overcome language barriers.
Bilingualism is more than just a skill for Mia—it’s a bridge between cultures and a business advantage. Her fluency has earned her the Seal of Biliteracy and enables her to connect with diverse communities.
Her academic prowess complements her business acumen. At John Champe High School, Mia excels in a challenging course load that includes AP Economics, AP Research, and AP Seminar. Her academic excellence has earned her recognition as an AP Scholar and membership in the National Honor Society. She balances rigorous academics with multiple extracurricular activities. She serves as captain of the varsity tennis team, works part-time at LifeTime Fitness, and volunteers with the Diocese of Arlington Catholic WorkCamp, where she spent a week reconstructing homes for low-income families, learning valuable hands-on skills like painting and tiling.
Looking ahead to her next chapter, Mia is preparing for a future in real estate by completing her 60-hour Virginia license. With her eyes set on George Washington University, Babson College, or the University of Virginia, she plans to study business economics with a minor in international relations. Her long-term vision includes creating mentorship programs that connect Latino students with professionals in business fields, addressing the underrepresentation of Latinos in professional business environments that she’s identified as a key issue facing her community.
Mia Mendizaba Sanchez
College: George Washington University, Babson College, University of Virginia
Major: Business Economics with a minor in International Relations
High School: John Champe High School
Hometown: Stone Ridge, VA
Hispanic Heritage: Peruvian & Argentine
For Mia Mendizaba Sanchez, the dive into entrepreneuship started with watching her father attend client consultations for his construction business, Racing Painting. Behind the brushstrokes and paint cans, young Mia observed important entrepreneurial skills—customer relationship management, clear communication, and the art of building trust, not just walls. “Watching him work taught me the value of selling not just a service, but your confidence and trust with it,” she shares. “He showed me that lasting success in business is built on reputation and networking.” She now treasures these early lessons from her father, for planting entrepreneurial seeds and building her foundation in business.
This young Latina of Peruvian and Argentine heritage took her business acumen to new heights when selected as a scholar in the Global Summer Learning Institute LEADership Entrepreneurship Program at St. Francis University in New York City. During this intensive two-week program, Mia took on the role of CFO for her team’s community-focused business proposal, applying practical skills while learning to view business as a tool for positive change. The experience placed her in boardrooms with industry leaders, where conversations about strategic growth in global markets sparked her imagination and bolstered her entrepreneurial ambitions.
Recognizing a gap in cultural representation at her school, Mia founded the Hispanic Student Association (HSA), creating a space where Latino students could connect with their heritage and each other. Despite administrative hurdles that delayed the club’s formation for over a year, her persistence paid off—the club now boasts 50 members and counting. Under her leadership, HSA hosts monthly educational presentations on Hispanic culture, traditions, and language, along with cooking demonstrations and cultural celebrations. Her efforts earned her the Student Leader Recognition award, acknowledging her contribution to enhancing cultural awareness and building community.
Mia’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond the classroom. For five years, she has run her own babysitting business, developing client relationships and managing her services independently. She also has a four-year tutoring service, where she especially enjoys helping Spanish-speaking students overcome language barriers.
Bilingualism is more than just a skill for Mia—it’s a bridge between cultures and a business advantage. Her fluency has earned her the Seal of Biliteracy and enables her to connect with diverse communities.
Her academic prowess complements her business acumen. At John Champe High School, Mia excels in a challenging course load that includes AP Economics, AP Research, and AP Seminar. Her academic excellence has earned her recognition as an AP Scholar and membership in the National Honor Society. She balances rigorous academics with multiple extracurricular activities. She serves as captain of the varsity tennis team, works part-time at LifeTime Fitness, and volunteers with the Diocese of Arlington Catholic WorkCamp, where she spent a week reconstructing homes for low-income families, learning valuable hands-on skills like painting and tiling.
Looking ahead to her next chapter, Mia is preparing for a future in real estate by completing her 60-hour Virginia license. With her eyes set on George Washington University, Babson College, or the University of Virginia, she plans to study business economics with a minor in international relations. Her long-term vision includes creating mentorship programs that connect Latino students with professionals in business fields, addressing the underrepresentation of Latinos in professional business environments that she’s identified as a key issue facing her community.
Burgundy Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Anna Carothers
GOLD
Anna Carothers
College: New York University, University of Notre Dame, University of Texas at Austin
Major: Business with a minor in Spanish
High School: Lubbock High School
Hometown: Lubbock, TX
Hispanic Heritage: Colombian
Entrepreneurship came to Anna Carothers early. While still in middle school, she launched CoCo Slimeys, a fun backpack-based slime business featuring a design solution that allowed kids to enjoy slime but also eased parents’ concerns about making a mess. Since her first endeavor, she has never looked back, always trying to find ways to learn more about this passion, whether attending business class lectures, participating in entrepreneurship competitions, or collaborating with other creators to make innovative and life-changing products.
“Whether it’s a small problem like messy slime or a life-threatening issue with limited medical solutions, business translates ideas to impact,” Carothers said. “I am eager to continue pursuing this path and develop the skills to bring more innovative solutions to the world.”
Of all her business forays, including as a volunteer and assistant at Innovation Hub TTU, an apprentice at Hub City Surgical Center, and a participant in the I-Corps STEM MBA Marketing Course, the straight-A student at Lubbock High School in Texas is the proudest of being the Founder of Pocket School, a startup focused on using augmented reality (AR) and pre-loaded courses to make education accessible to all. Through this experience, she learned how to foster collaborative team dynamics, led customer discovery interviews, and connected with local Lubbock residents to better understand their educational needs—ultimately leading to securing a grant to propel the idea around community-based learning.
Carothers, of Colombian descent, believes that being raised in a Hispanic household greatly influenced how she perceives the world and businesses. From her culture, she shares that a strong sense of community, an emphasis on morality, and the importance of sustainability are traits she learned and continues to carry throughout her life. Additionally, she says that her Hispanic background has steered her from thinking that businesses are solely about profit. Instead, she views it as offering solutions with a people-forward approach, always acting with consumers in mind to help others.
This similar mindset is evident in Aces for All, a free junior tennis camp and nonprofit organization that seeks to spread tennis by breaking barriers, specifically targeting the Hispanic community. Founded by Carothers, who started playing tennis at the age of six, this initiative, which helps to break down socioeconomic and language barriers and encourages people to enjoy tennis, rapidly became a success filled with many memorable moments, including coaching young students in Spanish and seeing them excel on the court.
As Anna Carothers heads to New York University, the University of Notre Dame, or the University of Texas at Austin to major in business with a minor in Spanish, she will expand her entrepreneurial efforts to impact others.
Anna Carothers
College: New York University, University of Notre Dame, University of Texas at Austin
Major: Business with a minor in Spanish
High School: Lubbock High School
Hometown: Lubbock, TX
Hispanic Heritage: Colombian
Entrepreneurship came to Anna Carothers early. While still in middle school, she launched CoCo Slimeys, a fun backpack-based slime business featuring a design solution that allowed kids to enjoy slime but also eased parents’ concerns about making a mess. Since her first endeavor, she has never looked back, always trying to find ways to learn more about this passion, whether attending business class lectures, participating in entrepreneurship competitions, or collaborating with other creators to make innovative and life-changing products.
“Whether it’s a small problem like messy slime or a life-threatening issue with limited medical solutions, business translates ideas to impact,” Carothers said. “I am eager to continue pursuing this path and develop the skills to bring more innovative solutions to the world.”
Of all her business forays, including as a volunteer and assistant at Innovation Hub TTU, an apprentice at Hub City Surgical Center, and a participant in the I-Corps STEM MBA Marketing Course, the straight-A student at Lubbock High School in Texas is the proudest of being the Founder of Pocket School, a startup focused on using augmented reality (AR) and pre-loaded courses to make education accessible to all. Through this experience, she learned how to foster collaborative team dynamics, led customer discovery interviews, and connected with local Lubbock residents to better understand their educational needs—ultimately leading to securing a grant to propel the idea around community-based learning.
Carothers, of Colombian descent, believes that being raised in a Hispanic household greatly influenced how she perceives the world and businesses. From her culture, she shares that a strong sense of community, an emphasis on morality, and the importance of sustainability are traits she learned and continues to carry throughout her life. Additionally, she says that her Hispanic background has steered her from thinking that businesses are solely about profit. Instead, she views it as offering solutions with a people-forward approach, always acting with consumers in mind to help others.
This similar mindset is evident in Aces for All, a free junior tennis camp and nonprofit organization that seeks to spread tennis by breaking barriers, specifically targeting the Hispanic community. Founded by Carothers, who started playing tennis at the age of six, this initiative, which helps to break down socioeconomic and language barriers and encourages people to enjoy tennis, rapidly became a success filled with many memorable moments, including coaching young students in Spanish and seeing them excel on the court.
As Anna Carothers heads to New York University, the University of Notre Dame, or the University of Texas at Austin to major in business with a minor in Spanish, she will expand her entrepreneurial efforts to impact others.
SILVER - Caleb Peña
SILVER
Caleb Peña
College: The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at San Antonio
Major: Business
High School: Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Memorial Early College High School
Hometown: Alamo, TX
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Family wisdom fuels Caleb Peña’s entrepreneurial fire. Growing up in Alamo, Texas, Caleb absorbed business lessons from his mother, who instilled in him the importance of pursuing business for a secure future, and his uncle, whose entrepreneurial journey from humble beginnings to financial prosperity showed Caleb what determination and smart decision-making could achieve. These influences shaped his ambition to create opportunities not just for himself, but to one day support his family.
These early life lessons inspired Caleb to launch his first business venture within the hallways of Pharr-San Juan-Alamo (PSJA) Memorial Early College High School. What began as homemade spicy candy experiments during quarantine evolved into a full-fledged school business. Like any savvy entrepreneur, Caleb quickly learned to tune into customer preferences, adjusting his product line based on feedback. As he explains, “I realized that knowing what my customer wants is everything. I took feedback, good or bad, to find out which candies were popular and quickly changed my product line.” This customer-focused approach guided him as he balanced affordability with profitability while juggling inventory management and marketing through word-of-mouth and social media.
His candy business wasn’t just about sweet profits—it taught Caleb essential entrepreneurial skills: time management, balancing business with academics, relationship building, and financial responsibility. The independence gained from running his own operation provided lessons no textbook could teach, while seeing classmates and teachers enjoy his creations added a special flavor of satisfaction to his business success.
Caleb approaches entrepreneurship with values drawn from his Mexican heritage, where business isn’t solely about individual achievement but about uplifting the entire community. When selling his candies, he involved friends in marketing and distribution, creating a collaborative network that reflected his cultural emphasis on family and community. This resourcefulness—making the most of limited resources and finding creative solutions to challenges—has sharpened his ability to identify opportunities even in difficult situations.
Academic excellence provides the foundation for Caleb’s entrepreneurial pursuits. Ranked 13th out of 488 students at PSJA Memorial, he maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA while pursuing challenging coursework including College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Macroeconomics, and Introduction to Philosophy. His achievements have earned him recognition on the A Honor Roll, Presidential Honor Roll, and as Summa Cum Laude. Perhaps most impressively, Caleb will earn his associate degree from South Texas College before graduating high school—a remarkable feat that exemplifies his dedication to academic excellence.
Leadership comes naturally to this young entrepreneur. As a Student Council Senator, Caleb contributes to initiatives benefiting both school and community. Jessica Ortega, his Student Council sponsor, notes that he is “often the first to complete tasks, yet he never hesitates to assist others when he notices they need help.” His involvement extends to National Honor Society, Theatre, Football, Basketball, and Track, proving his ability to balance multiple commitments while excelling in each arena.
Community service plays an important role in Caleb’s life philosophy. Having experienced the power of community support firsthand, he appreciates “the positive effect of an outstretched hand” and feels compelled to extend the same support to others. Whether volunteering at school events, mentoring underclassmen, or participating in community cleanups, Caleb approaches service with enthusiasm.
Looking beyond high school, Caleb has his sights set on the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, or the University of Texas at San Antonio, where he plans to major in business. Armed with academic honors, business instincts, and a recipe for success, he’s more than ready for what’s ahead while keeping his community-first philosophy as the secret ingredient in his entrepreneurial pursuits.
Caleb Peña
College: The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, University of Texas at San Antonio
Major: Business
High School: Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Memorial Early College High School
Hometown: Alamo, TX
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Family wisdom fuels Caleb Peña’s entrepreneurial fire. Growing up in Alamo, Texas, Caleb absorbed business lessons from his mother, who instilled in him the importance of pursuing business for a secure future, and his uncle, whose entrepreneurial journey from humble beginnings to financial prosperity showed Caleb what determination and smart decision-making could achieve. These influences shaped his ambition to create opportunities not just for himself, but to one day support his family.
These early life lessons inspired Caleb to launch his first business venture within the hallways of Pharr-San Juan-Alamo (PSJA) Memorial Early College High School. What began as homemade spicy candy experiments during quarantine evolved into a full-fledged school business. Like any savvy entrepreneur, Caleb quickly learned to tune into customer preferences, adjusting his product line based on feedback. As he explains, “I realized that knowing what my customer wants is everything. I took feedback, good or bad, to find out which candies were popular and quickly changed my product line.” This customer-focused approach guided him as he balanced affordability with profitability while juggling inventory management and marketing through word-of-mouth and social media.
His candy business wasn’t just about sweet profits—it taught Caleb essential entrepreneurial skills: time management, balancing business with academics, relationship building, and financial responsibility. The independence gained from running his own operation provided lessons no textbook could teach, while seeing classmates and teachers enjoy his creations added a special flavor of satisfaction to his business success.
Caleb approaches entrepreneurship with values drawn from his Mexican heritage, where business isn’t solely about individual achievement but about uplifting the entire community. When selling his candies, he involved friends in marketing and distribution, creating a collaborative network that reflected his cultural emphasis on family and community. This resourcefulness—making the most of limited resources and finding creative solutions to challenges—has sharpened his ability to identify opportunities even in difficult situations.
Academic excellence provides the foundation for Caleb’s entrepreneurial pursuits. Ranked 13th out of 488 students at PSJA Memorial, he maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA while pursuing challenging coursework including College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Macroeconomics, and Introduction to Philosophy. His achievements have earned him recognition on the A Honor Roll, Presidential Honor Roll, and as Summa Cum Laude. Perhaps most impressively, Caleb will earn his associate degree from South Texas College before graduating high school—a remarkable feat that exemplifies his dedication to academic excellence.
Leadership comes naturally to this young entrepreneur. As a Student Council Senator, Caleb contributes to initiatives benefiting both school and community. Jessica Ortega, his Student Council sponsor, notes that he is “often the first to complete tasks, yet he never hesitates to assist others when he notices they need help.” His involvement extends to National Honor Society, Theatre, Football, Basketball, and Track, proving his ability to balance multiple commitments while excelling in each arena.
Community service plays an important role in Caleb’s life philosophy. Having experienced the power of community support firsthand, he appreciates “the positive effect of an outstretched hand” and feels compelled to extend the same support to others. Whether volunteering at school events, mentoring underclassmen, or participating in community cleanups, Caleb approaches service with enthusiasm.
Looking beyond high school, Caleb has his sights set on the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, or the University of Texas at San Antonio, where he plans to major in business. Armed with academic honors, business instincts, and a recipe for success, he’s more than ready for what’s ahead while keeping his community-first philosophy as the secret ingredient in his entrepreneurial pursuits.
BRONZE - Daniel Guajardo
BRONZE
Daniel Guajardo
College: University of Chicago, University of Texas at Austin, Rice University
Major: Finance on a pre-law track
High School: McAllen High School
Hometown: Mission, TX
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
When Daniel Guajardo saw the lack of affordable healthy food options in the Rio Grande Valley, he didn’t wait for others to solve the problem. In 2021, this enterprising McAllen High School student founded Guajardo Farmer’s Market, turning a business opportunity into a community lifeline. Unlike conventional markets, Daniel’s venture blends commerce with education, offering a variety of nutritious agricultural products at prices calibrated for a region where economic constraints often force families to choose between affordability and nutrition. Examples of these healthy offerings include kombucha, salads, and sourdough bread—just a sampling of the market’s health-conscious inventory.
Each customer interaction at Guajardo’s Farmer’s Market includes valuable conversations about the health benefits of nutritious eating, creating informed customers who become advocates within their own families. This business-to-consumer education model has built a network of relationships that continues to expand, gradually working to reduce dietary challenges in the region one conversation and one sale at a time.
“Our pricing model takes into account individuals’ financial situations,” explains Daniel, who applies business principles learned in high school courses, including cost analysis and budgeting skills, to structure costs that consider the financial situations of local residents while still maintaining a sustainable business model. This thoughtful approach to entrepreneurship represents Daniel’s belief that businesses can drive meaningful social change while meeting economic needs.
Daniel’s Mexican heritage fuels his entrepreneurial mission. Recognizing the gap in representation within the health food industry, he stepped forward to challenge the status quo. “My goal has been to create trust with customers who may feel overlooked by popular businesses,” he shares, “using our shared cultural understanding to communicate with them about health, affordability, and accessibility.” This cultural connection allows him to reach community members who might otherwise dismiss similar messaging, helping him communicate effectively about health, affordability, and accessibility. By centering his business around cultural responsibility, Daniel has created a model that resonates with his community’s specific challenges and needs.
Daniel’s academic excellence parallels his entrepreneurial accomplishments. As a standout at McAllen High School, he ranks in the top 4% of his class while pursuing endorsements in STEM, Multidisciplinary Studies, and Business and Industry. His perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA reflects excellence across a challenging curriculum full of AP classed. These academic achievements have earned him accolades in courses like AP World History and AP U.S. History, as noted by Nelda A. Gutierrez, College Admission & Scholarship Specialist at McAllen High School.
The business arena has provided another venue for Daniel to shine. Through Business Professionals of America, where he serves as Historian, he has earned regional and state-level recognition and developed valuable business acumen.
When not revolutionizing local food systems, Daniel wields words with equal effectiveness. As Vice President of the Debate Club and member of the National Speech and Debate Association at his school, he applies strategic thinking and persuasive communication to advocate for community issues. His achievements in debate are noteworthy—last year, he earned first place and maintained an undefeated record at a national qualifying public forum debate tournament and received Texas Forensics Association State recognition, adding to his impressive credentials as a communicator and critical thinker.
Daniel’s advocacy extends beyond verbal arguments to practical policy proposals. At the National Hispanic Institute’s (NHI) program at St. Mary’s University, Daniel’s leadership found new expression. He co-founded the majoritarian political party, creating an environment of respect and inclusion for all 250 members. His Latino Civic Project bill, which passed through NHI’s legislative process in 2023, proposed opening more civic centers in Texas to increase Hispanic democratic engagement. These experiences cultivated the same communication and advocacy skills that drive his entrepreneurial success.
Daniel finds additional outlets to serve and get involved through organizations like the United Way of South Texas and Mission Municipal Court. He also broadens his professional horizons through an internship at a legal firm, gaining practical experience that complements his academic knowledge. Between his business ventures and academic pursuits, Daniel still finds time for athletics as a member of the McAllen High School Golf team.
As Daniel prepares to pursue finance on a pre-law track at the University of Chicago, the University of Texas at Austin, or Rice University, he carries forward the entrepreneurial mindset and community focus that made Guajardo’s Farmer’s Market a success. Whether selling fresh produce or preparing for law school, Daniel’s formula remains consistent: mix equal parts business sense and community care, then watch everything grow.
Daniel Guajardo
College: University of Chicago, University of Texas at Austin, Rice University
Major: Finance on a pre-law track
High School: McAllen High School
Hometown: Mission, TX
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
When Daniel Guajardo saw the lack of affordable healthy food options in the Rio Grande Valley, he didn’t wait for others to solve the problem. In 2021, this enterprising McAllen High School student founded Guajardo Farmer’s Market, turning a business opportunity into a community lifeline. Unlike conventional markets, Daniel’s venture blends commerce with education, offering a variety of nutritious agricultural products at prices calibrated for a region where economic constraints often force families to choose between affordability and nutrition. Examples of these healthy offerings include kombucha, salads, and sourdough bread—just a sampling of the market’s health-conscious inventory.
Each customer interaction at Guajardo’s Farmer’s Market includes valuable conversations about the health benefits of nutritious eating, creating informed customers who become advocates within their own families. This business-to-consumer education model has built a network of relationships that continues to expand, gradually working to reduce dietary challenges in the region one conversation and one sale at a time.
“Our pricing model takes into account individuals’ financial situations,” explains Daniel, who applies business principles learned in high school courses, including cost analysis and budgeting skills, to structure costs that consider the financial situations of local residents while still maintaining a sustainable business model. This thoughtful approach to entrepreneurship represents Daniel’s belief that businesses can drive meaningful social change while meeting economic needs.
Daniel’s Mexican heritage fuels his entrepreneurial mission. Recognizing the gap in representation within the health food industry, he stepped forward to challenge the status quo. “My goal has been to create trust with customers who may feel overlooked by popular businesses,” he shares, “using our shared cultural understanding to communicate with them about health, affordability, and accessibility.” This cultural connection allows him to reach community members who might otherwise dismiss similar messaging, helping him communicate effectively about health, affordability, and accessibility. By centering his business around cultural responsibility, Daniel has created a model that resonates with his community’s specific challenges and needs.
Daniel’s academic excellence parallels his entrepreneurial accomplishments. As a standout at McAllen High School, he ranks in the top 4% of his class while pursuing endorsements in STEM, Multidisciplinary Studies, and Business and Industry. His perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA reflects excellence across a challenging curriculum full of AP classed. These academic achievements have earned him accolades in courses like AP World History and AP U.S. History, as noted by Nelda A. Gutierrez, College Admission & Scholarship Specialist at McAllen High School.
The business arena has provided another venue for Daniel to shine. Through Business Professionals of America, where he serves as Historian, he has earned regional and state-level recognition and developed valuable business acumen.
When not revolutionizing local food systems, Daniel wields words with equal effectiveness. As Vice President of the Debate Club and member of the National Speech and Debate Association at his school, he applies strategic thinking and persuasive communication to advocate for community issues. His achievements in debate are noteworthy—last year, he earned first place and maintained an undefeated record at a national qualifying public forum debate tournament and received Texas Forensics Association State recognition, adding to his impressive credentials as a communicator and critical thinker.
Daniel’s advocacy extends beyond verbal arguments to practical policy proposals. At the National Hispanic Institute’s (NHI) program at St. Mary’s University, Daniel’s leadership found new expression. He co-founded the majoritarian political party, creating an environment of respect and inclusion for all 250 members. His Latino Civic Project bill, which passed through NHI’s legislative process in 2023, proposed opening more civic centers in Texas to increase Hispanic democratic engagement. These experiences cultivated the same communication and advocacy skills that drive his entrepreneurial success.
Daniel finds additional outlets to serve and get involved through organizations like the United Way of South Texas and Mission Municipal Court. He also broadens his professional horizons through an internship at a legal firm, gaining practical experience that complements his academic knowledge. Between his business ventures and academic pursuits, Daniel still finds time for athletics as a member of the McAllen High School Golf team.
As Daniel prepares to pursue finance on a pre-law track at the University of Chicago, the University of Texas at Austin, or Rice University, he carries forward the entrepreneurial mindset and community focus that made Guajardo’s Farmer’s Market a success. Whether selling fresh produce or preparing for law school, Daniel’s formula remains consistent: mix equal parts business sense and community care, then watch everything grow.
Green Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Matias Aviñó
GOLD
Matias Aviñó
College: Harvard College, University of Pennsylvania, Boston College
Major: Economics with minors in Business and Finance
High School: Belen Jesuit Preparatory School
Hometown: Coral Gables, FL
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican & Cuban
A mother’s daily question—”What did you do to help someone today?”—sparked an 11-year-old Matias Aviñó to dream beyond his years. His answer would eventually take the form of YTeach, a peer-to-peer tutoring app that has connected over 15,000 students nationwide. “I had an idea of how to help not one person but many people every day,” Matias explains. This young entrepreneur didn’t just identify a problem; he built an entire ecosystem to solve it. YTeach consists of both a student app for scheduling tutoring sessions and an admin portal where school administrators can track analytics and monitor progress. The platform’s brilliance lies in its accessibility—unlike most tutoring services, YTeach comes at no cost to students since schools or districts foot the bill, removing socioeconomic barriers to academic support.
Matias’s entrepreneurial vision has earned him recognition across Miami’s booming tech scene. The South Florida Business Journal named him a “Miami Innovator Under 25” and placed YTeach among their “24 South Florida Startups to Watch in 2024.” His company also earned third place in the City National Bank Startup Studio competition, was selected as a Top Ten Early Stage Startup at eMerge Americas (where Matias was the youngest participant), and became a finalist for the Google for Startups Latino Founders Fund. These achievements opened doors to exclusive entrepreneurial cohorts with Endeavor Miami and Techstars.
Creating YTeach required Matias to develop skills far beyond his years. He prepared wireframes, collaborated with developers, met with attorneys, and pitched to potential schools—all while juggling the demands of high school. The journey taught him that “building something meaningful is only possible with resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace both failure and growth.” His perseverance paid off when he received an email from a mother whose son, isolated during COVID-19, found both academic support and friendship through YTeach. “The idea that something I did was able to brighten just one person’s life is greater than any trophy or amount of money could ever be,” Matias reflects.
Beyond YTeach, Matias has cultivated an impressive list of leadership roles at Belen Jesuit Preparatory School. He serves as President of Mock Trial, holds an executive board position with DECA, leads the Writers Club, and works as a team leader for the STEAM and Robotics Club. His athletic accomplishments are equally impressive—as a member of Belen Jesuit’s Varsity Crew team, he contributed to their 2023 State Championship and earned 4th place in US Rowing in 2022.
His dedication to service extends beyond his app. As a school ambassador for Miami Learning Experience (MLE), Matias has raised over $10,000 for students with special needs, organized a 5k community outreach event, and assisted with the organization’s annual gala. His connection to this cause is personal—his 15-year-old cousin Lorenzo, who has autism, showed Matias the importance of creating opportunities for those with different abilities. “Being an MLE ambassador is more than just raising awareness; it is gratitude,” he explains.
Matias’s Hispanic heritage—a blend of Puerto Rican and Cuban—shapes his approach to entrepreneurship. Growing up in Miami, he witnessed his community’s evolution while learning from his grandparents’ experiences of arriving when “Hispanics and Cubans were not readily accepted.” Their resilience taught him to treat others with dignity and respect, while his grandfather’s advice—”Cuando puedas ayuda” (When you can, help)—became a guiding principle. His business philosophy centers on finding “something you are good at with something you are passionate about that helps others.”
Academically, Matias maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA while taking a demanding course load that includes AP Calculus AB, AP Physics C: Mechanics, and AP Capstone Research. His research explored whether the aerodynamic adaptation of Formula 1 front wings could improve fuel efficiency in road cars—a question with potential implications for low-income communities disproportionately affected by gas prices. This intersection of technology and social impact reflects Matias’s larger vision for his future in business.
“In my twenty-seven years as an educator, I have encountered few students as outstanding and passionate about leading as Matias,” writes Tommy de Quesada, Executive Director of Enrollment and Community Outreach at Belen Jesuit. “He is gifted with an unbelievable amount of talent, and his best achievements are ahead of him. Matias is a superstar on our campus.”
The next chapter of Matias’s entrepreneurial journey will unfold at Harvard College, the University of Pennsylvania, or Boston College, where he plans to major in economics with minors in business and finance. With his track record of turning questions into companies and problems into possibilities, Matias Aviñó is poised to continue creating solutions that make a difference—porque cuando puede, ayuda.
Matias Aviñó
College: Harvard College, University of Pennsylvania, Boston College
Major: Economics with minors in Business and Finance
High School: Belen Jesuit Preparatory School
Hometown: Coral Gables, FL
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican & Cuban
A mother’s daily question—”What did you do to help someone today?”—sparked an 11-year-old Matias Aviñó to dream beyond his years. His answer would eventually take the form of YTeach, a peer-to-peer tutoring app that has connected over 15,000 students nationwide. “I had an idea of how to help not one person but many people every day,” Matias explains. This young entrepreneur didn’t just identify a problem; he built an entire ecosystem to solve it. YTeach consists of both a student app for scheduling tutoring sessions and an admin portal where school administrators can track analytics and monitor progress. The platform’s brilliance lies in its accessibility—unlike most tutoring services, YTeach comes at no cost to students since schools or districts foot the bill, removing socioeconomic barriers to academic support.
Matias’s entrepreneurial vision has earned him recognition across Miami’s booming tech scene. The South Florida Business Journal named him a “Miami Innovator Under 25” and placed YTeach among their “24 South Florida Startups to Watch in 2024.” His company also earned third place in the City National Bank Startup Studio competition, was selected as a Top Ten Early Stage Startup at eMerge Americas (where Matias was the youngest participant), and became a finalist for the Google for Startups Latino Founders Fund. These achievements opened doors to exclusive entrepreneurial cohorts with Endeavor Miami and Techstars.
Creating YTeach required Matias to develop skills far beyond his years. He prepared wireframes, collaborated with developers, met with attorneys, and pitched to potential schools—all while juggling the demands of high school. The journey taught him that “building something meaningful is only possible with resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace both failure and growth.” His perseverance paid off when he received an email from a mother whose son, isolated during COVID-19, found both academic support and friendship through YTeach. “The idea that something I did was able to brighten just one person’s life is greater than any trophy or amount of money could ever be,” Matias reflects.
Beyond YTeach, Matias has cultivated an impressive list of leadership roles at Belen Jesuit Preparatory School. He serves as President of Mock Trial, holds an executive board position with DECA, leads the Writers Club, and works as a team leader for the STEAM and Robotics Club. His athletic accomplishments are equally impressive—as a member of Belen Jesuit’s Varsity Crew team, he contributed to their 2023 State Championship and earned 4th place in US Rowing in 2022.
His dedication to service extends beyond his app. As a school ambassador for Miami Learning Experience (MLE), Matias has raised over $10,000 for students with special needs, organized a 5k community outreach event, and assisted with the organization’s annual gala. His connection to this cause is personal—his 15-year-old cousin Lorenzo, who has autism, showed Matias the importance of creating opportunities for those with different abilities. “Being an MLE ambassador is more than just raising awareness; it is gratitude,” he explains.
Matias’s Hispanic heritage—a blend of Puerto Rican and Cuban—shapes his approach to entrepreneurship. Growing up in Miami, he witnessed his community’s evolution while learning from his grandparents’ experiences of arriving when “Hispanics and Cubans were not readily accepted.” Their resilience taught him to treat others with dignity and respect, while his grandfather’s advice—”Cuando puedas ayuda” (When you can, help)—became a guiding principle. His business philosophy centers on finding “something you are good at with something you are passionate about that helps others.”
Academically, Matias maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA while taking a demanding course load that includes AP Calculus AB, AP Physics C: Mechanics, and AP Capstone Research. His research explored whether the aerodynamic adaptation of Formula 1 front wings could improve fuel efficiency in road cars—a question with potential implications for low-income communities disproportionately affected by gas prices. This intersection of technology and social impact reflects Matias’s larger vision for his future in business.
“In my twenty-seven years as an educator, I have encountered few students as outstanding and passionate about leading as Matias,” writes Tommy de Quesada, Executive Director of Enrollment and Community Outreach at Belen Jesuit. “He is gifted with an unbelievable amount of talent, and his best achievements are ahead of him. Matias is a superstar on our campus.”
The next chapter of Matias’s entrepreneurial journey will unfold at Harvard College, the University of Pennsylvania, or Boston College, where he plans to major in economics with minors in business and finance. With his track record of turning questions into companies and problems into possibilities, Matias Aviñó is poised to continue creating solutions that make a difference—porque cuando puede, ayuda.
SILVER - Maia Marull
SILVER
Maia Marull
College: University of Florida, University of Central Florida, Ringling College of Art and Design
Major: Graphic Design with a minor in Marketing or Business
High School: Loften High School
Hometown: Gainesville, FL
Hispanic Heritage: Argentine & Spanish
Maia Marull has been wielding a paintbrush since childhood, but her entrepreneurial spirit went into full bloom when she created Maia’s Creations LLC. “Art has been a part of me for as long as I can remember,” says the Argentine and Spanish American student from Gainesville, Florida. “Forming an LLC felt like such a defining moment,” Maia shares. “It wasn’t just about doing what I love; it was about committing to my passion as a professional.” Her journey from face painting at elementary school Halloween events to founding her own LLC exemplifies the blend of creativity and business acumen that makes her a standout entrepreneur. Her artistic talent and business acumen merged after gaining experience as an assistant at Mamasquatch Makes Art LLC, where she learned skills in event management and client relations before taking the leap to establish her own company. Today, sh4 runs her own events and handles everything from bookings to customer relationships while maintaining collaborations with Mamasquatch for larger projects.
The art skills fueling Maia’s entrepreneurial success were honed at the Institute of Graphic Arts and Design at Loften High School, where she earned professional certifications in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Her artistic talents have garnered recognition beyond the business world—she won Best Portrait at the Fall Teen Art Show in Alachua County and had her artwork selected for the Alachua County Public School Visual Arts Exhibition in 2023.
“The level of dedication and skill was astounding and simply inspiring,” writes her former teacher Mandy St. Peter, describing the color pencil portrait on black paper that Maia created during her sophomore year and which earned her a spot at the 2023 Visual Arts Exhibition. “Maia is kind and does an excellent job making others feel comfortable and safe to create in her space,” observes her teacher. “If she notices that her classmates are struggling with a task, she will help walk them through it.” This natural ability to support others while pursuing her own goals reflects the balanced leadership style that sets Maia apart as a young entrepreneur.
Maia credits her Argentine grandmother with shaping her entrepreneurial vision. “Watching my Argentine grandmother start her own private school in Santa Rosa, La Pampa, showed me early on what it means to pursue a passion with determination and make a lasting impact on a community,” she reflects. This familial influence taught her that entrepreneurship extends beyond profit margins to creating meaningful ventures that elevate communities.
Her time studying abroad in Seville reinforced her appreciation for cultural exchange, a value she incorporates into her business approach. Maia’s fluency in Spanish allows her to connect with diverse clients and communities, creating inclusive artistic experiences that bridge cultural divides. Through her business, she continues the legacy of her grandmother by using art to bring joy while fostering connections.
Maia’s leadership extends beyond her business ventures. As president of her high school’s Spanish Club, she orchestrated a clothing drive for unaccompanied minors at a local shelter after her family fostered 16 children from South America. “We collected over six bags of clothing, along with soccer cleats and balls to support the children’s love for the sport,” Maia explains. The initiative taught her crucial entrepreneurial skills—managing logistics, communicating with donors, and inspiring others to participate.
This Latina entrepreneur balances her business responsibilities with a full academic and extracurricular schedule. She maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA while taking challenging courses like AP Art History, AP Computer Science Principles, and dual enrollment classes at Santa Fe College and the University of Florida. Her academic excellence earned her recognition as Student of the Year at Loften High School in 2022, the Award of Excellence: Honor Roll, and the National Hispanic Recognition Award in 2023.
Beyond academics and entrepreneurship, Maia stays active as a cross-country and track and field athlete while participating in Young Life Club, Yearbook Club, and Pep Club. She has also worked as a graphic design intern for The Readiness Collective, creating logos and marketing materials that strengthened her understanding of branding—an essential aspect of entrepreneurship.
Maia plans to attend the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida, or Ringling College of Art and Design to study graphic design with a minor in marketing or business. Her goal is to combine her artistic talents with business expertise, creating a career that blends creativity with entrepreneurial success—proving that following your passion can indeed be a serious business strategy with the right mix of talent, determination, and heart.
Maia Marull
College: University of Florida, University of Central Florida, Ringling College of Art and Design
Major: Graphic Design with a minor in Marketing or Business
High School: Loften High School
Hometown: Gainesville, FL
Hispanic Heritage: Argentine & Spanish
Maia Marull has been wielding a paintbrush since childhood, but her entrepreneurial spirit went into full bloom when she created Maia’s Creations LLC. “Art has been a part of me for as long as I can remember,” says the Argentine and Spanish American student from Gainesville, Florida. “Forming an LLC felt like such a defining moment,” Maia shares. “It wasn’t just about doing what I love; it was about committing to my passion as a professional.” Her journey from face painting at elementary school Halloween events to founding her own LLC exemplifies the blend of creativity and business acumen that makes her a standout entrepreneur. Her artistic talent and business acumen merged after gaining experience as an assistant at Mamasquatch Makes Art LLC, where she learned skills in event management and client relations before taking the leap to establish her own company. Today, sh4 runs her own events and handles everything from bookings to customer relationships while maintaining collaborations with Mamasquatch for larger projects.
The art skills fueling Maia’s entrepreneurial success were honed at the Institute of Graphic Arts and Design at Loften High School, where she earned professional certifications in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Her artistic talents have garnered recognition beyond the business world—she won Best Portrait at the Fall Teen Art Show in Alachua County and had her artwork selected for the Alachua County Public School Visual Arts Exhibition in 2023.
“The level of dedication and skill was astounding and simply inspiring,” writes her former teacher Mandy St. Peter, describing the color pencil portrait on black paper that Maia created during her sophomore year and which earned her a spot at the 2023 Visual Arts Exhibition. “Maia is kind and does an excellent job making others feel comfortable and safe to create in her space,” observes her teacher. “If she notices that her classmates are struggling with a task, she will help walk them through it.” This natural ability to support others while pursuing her own goals reflects the balanced leadership style that sets Maia apart as a young entrepreneur.
Maia credits her Argentine grandmother with shaping her entrepreneurial vision. “Watching my Argentine grandmother start her own private school in Santa Rosa, La Pampa, showed me early on what it means to pursue a passion with determination and make a lasting impact on a community,” she reflects. This familial influence taught her that entrepreneurship extends beyond profit margins to creating meaningful ventures that elevate communities.
Her time studying abroad in Seville reinforced her appreciation for cultural exchange, a value she incorporates into her business approach. Maia’s fluency in Spanish allows her to connect with diverse clients and communities, creating inclusive artistic experiences that bridge cultural divides. Through her business, she continues the legacy of her grandmother by using art to bring joy while fostering connections.
Maia’s leadership extends beyond her business ventures. As president of her high school’s Spanish Club, she orchestrated a clothing drive for unaccompanied minors at a local shelter after her family fostered 16 children from South America. “We collected over six bags of clothing, along with soccer cleats and balls to support the children’s love for the sport,” Maia explains. The initiative taught her crucial entrepreneurial skills—managing logistics, communicating with donors, and inspiring others to participate.
This Latina entrepreneur balances her business responsibilities with a full academic and extracurricular schedule. She maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA while taking challenging courses like AP Art History, AP Computer Science Principles, and dual enrollment classes at Santa Fe College and the University of Florida. Her academic excellence earned her recognition as Student of the Year at Loften High School in 2022, the Award of Excellence: Honor Roll, and the National Hispanic Recognition Award in 2023.
Beyond academics and entrepreneurship, Maia stays active as a cross-country and track and field athlete while participating in Young Life Club, Yearbook Club, and Pep Club. She has also worked as a graphic design intern for The Readiness Collective, creating logos and marketing materials that strengthened her understanding of branding—an essential aspect of entrepreneurship.
Maia plans to attend the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida, or Ringling College of Art and Design to study graphic design with a minor in marketing or business. Her goal is to combine her artistic talents with business expertise, creating a career that blends creativity with entrepreneurial success—proving that following your passion can indeed be a serious business strategy with the right mix of talent, determination, and heart.
BRONZE - Federico Sammataro
BRONZE
Federico Sammataro
College: Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Florida, Stanford University
Major: Computer Science with a minor in Cybersecurity
High School: School for Advanced Studies – Wolfson
Hometown: Key Biscayne, FL
Hispanic Heritage: Cuban
From a first-grader whose parents joked he’d come up with his own alphabet and shorthand to the founder of an international literacy nonprofit, Federico Sammataro’s entrepreneurial journey began with his own struggle to read. “First grade marked a difficult transition for me,” the Cuban-American recounts. “I was mercilessly bullied for not being able to read. I was embarrassed and ashamed, and I was only 7 years old.” This early experience ignited a passion to help others overcome similar challenges, leading Federico to create Books Over Seas—a charitable organization that has delivered over 6,000 books to libraries throughout the Caribbean in its first year alone.
As Chief Operating Officer of Books Over Seas, Federico turned his mission into a structured business by researching incorporation options and applying for nonprofit status. “This business structure allowed me to collect donations and make payments in furtherance of our mission. It also gave donors the benefit of deducting their donations on their tax returns,” he explains. His entrepreneurial savvy extended to understanding complex customs laws in the Bahamas, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and Mexico—essential knowledge for ensuring their book shipments cleared international borders smoothly.
The impact of his nonprofit has rippled far beyond mere book donations. In Freeport, Grand Bahamas, the only library serving 50,000 residents had lost over half its collection to flooding from Hurricane Dorian in 2019. Books Over Seas’ donation of 1,300 books allowed the library to restock its shelves and reopen its mobile program after five years. The initiative’s success caught the attention of Sunbelt Rentals, which agreed to fund transportation for an additional 2,000 books. In Jamaica, Federico delivered 1,200 books to the Saint James Public Library in Montego Bay, including hundreds of brand-new textbooks that expanded the library’s tutoring programs and book report competitions. This momentum continued in the Dominican Republic, where a donation of 2,100 books to the Fundación Maimon Amanza inspired another foundation to sponsor an entire library space complete with bookshelves, reading nooks, and study areas.
Federico’s Cuban heritage guides his entrepreneurial focus. He deliberately targets Latin and Caribbean countries, understanding firsthand the challenges Hispanics face when trying to navigate an English-speaking world. By intentionally seeking organizations that teach English and securing donations of educational materials, he helps community members improve their job prospects in tourism and hospitality industries where bilingual skills often lead to higher wages. By targeting communities in need of language resources, he aims to help people “gain the language skills that will help them improve their lives through better jobs, higher wages, and easier mobility.”
Beyond Books Over Seas, Federico has participated in campaigns for both the Say No to Drugs initiative and the Tobacco Free movement, extending his community impact beyond literacy. His commitment to service and leadership earned him recognition as Laureate of the Year by the City of Coral Gables in 2024 and the Award of Excellence for Leadership and Service in 2022.
Academic excellence comes naturally to Federico, who maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA at School for Advanced Studies – Wolfson while challenging himself with a rigorous schedule of advanced and dual-enrollment classes. His outstanding performance earned him recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction, a National Hispanic Recognition Award recipient, and a University of Chicago Book Award winner in 2024, not to forget permanent standing on the Principal’s Honor Roll. He is also an active member of the National Honors Society and volunteers with the Boys & Girls Club, balancing these activities with his personal interests in weightlifting and boxing.
Federico plans to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, the University of Florida, or Stanford University to study computer science with a minor in cybersecurity. For this remarkable young entrepreneur, the words on the pages he distributes are more than stories—they’re seeds of opportunity, connecting communities across borders and bridging the gap between struggle and success, one book at a time.
Federico Sammataro
College: Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Florida, Stanford University
Major: Computer Science with a minor in Cybersecurity
High School: School for Advanced Studies – Wolfson
Hometown: Key Biscayne, FL
Hispanic Heritage: Cuban
From a first-grader whose parents joked he’d come up with his own alphabet and shorthand to the founder of an international literacy nonprofit, Federico Sammataro’s entrepreneurial journey began with his own struggle to read. “First grade marked a difficult transition for me,” the Cuban-American recounts. “I was mercilessly bullied for not being able to read. I was embarrassed and ashamed, and I was only 7 years old.” This early experience ignited a passion to help others overcome similar challenges, leading Federico to create Books Over Seas—a charitable organization that has delivered over 6,000 books to libraries throughout the Caribbean in its first year alone.
As Chief Operating Officer of Books Over Seas, Federico turned his mission into a structured business by researching incorporation options and applying for nonprofit status. “This business structure allowed me to collect donations and make payments in furtherance of our mission. It also gave donors the benefit of deducting their donations on their tax returns,” he explains. His entrepreneurial savvy extended to understanding complex customs laws in the Bahamas, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and Mexico—essential knowledge for ensuring their book shipments cleared international borders smoothly.
The impact of his nonprofit has rippled far beyond mere book donations. In Freeport, Grand Bahamas, the only library serving 50,000 residents had lost over half its collection to flooding from Hurricane Dorian in 2019. Books Over Seas’ donation of 1,300 books allowed the library to restock its shelves and reopen its mobile program after five years. The initiative’s success caught the attention of Sunbelt Rentals, which agreed to fund transportation for an additional 2,000 books. In Jamaica, Federico delivered 1,200 books to the Saint James Public Library in Montego Bay, including hundreds of brand-new textbooks that expanded the library’s tutoring programs and book report competitions. This momentum continued in the Dominican Republic, where a donation of 2,100 books to the Fundación Maimon Amanza inspired another foundation to sponsor an entire library space complete with bookshelves, reading nooks, and study areas.
Federico’s Cuban heritage guides his entrepreneurial focus. He deliberately targets Latin and Caribbean countries, understanding firsthand the challenges Hispanics face when trying to navigate an English-speaking world. By intentionally seeking organizations that teach English and securing donations of educational materials, he helps community members improve their job prospects in tourism and hospitality industries where bilingual skills often lead to higher wages. By targeting communities in need of language resources, he aims to help people “gain the language skills that will help them improve their lives through better jobs, higher wages, and easier mobility.”
Beyond Books Over Seas, Federico has participated in campaigns for both the Say No to Drugs initiative and the Tobacco Free movement, extending his community impact beyond literacy. His commitment to service and leadership earned him recognition as Laureate of the Year by the City of Coral Gables in 2024 and the Award of Excellence for Leadership and Service in 2022.
Academic excellence comes naturally to Federico, who maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA at School for Advanced Studies – Wolfson while challenging himself with a rigorous schedule of advanced and dual-enrollment classes. His outstanding performance earned him recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction, a National Hispanic Recognition Award recipient, and a University of Chicago Book Award winner in 2024, not to forget permanent standing on the Principal’s Honor Roll. He is also an active member of the National Honors Society and volunteers with the Boys & Girls Club, balancing these activities with his personal interests in weightlifting and boxing.
Federico plans to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, the University of Florida, or Stanford University to study computer science with a minor in cybersecurity. For this remarkable young entrepreneur, the words on the pages he distributes are more than stories—they’re seeds of opportunity, connecting communities across borders and bridging the gap between struggle and success, one book at a time.
Orange Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Angel Fontanez Jr.
GOLD
Angel Fontanez Jr.
College: South Carolina State University, University of South Carolina Aiken, Claflin University
Major: Electrical Engineering
High School: Silver Bluff High School
Hometown: Beech Island, SC
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
For Angel “AJ” Fontanez Jr., entrepreneurship sprouted from sunshine, grass clippings, and the sweet scent of financial independence. Starting with just a set of battery-operated equipment and his aunt’s social media promotion, this young businessman quickly gained traction. A single post germinated into five weekly yards, then regular clients. “My name and unbeatable prices started making their way around,” Angel says, watching his client base and bank account grow in tandem.
The rewards of entrepreneurship resonated immediately with Angel. “My schedule is very flexible. I can book jobs around my baseball games and practices,” he shares, appreciating how his business accommodates his athletic commitments. Financial autonomy ranks high among his motivations: “Making my own money is a huge reward as I have a car to maintain. I do not have to ask my parents for gas money, money for snacks, or money for everyday items.”
His business savvy extends beyond mowing techniques to understanding the psychology of pricing and marketing. Angel’s “unbeatable prices” became his competitive advantage, spreading through word-of-mouth to attract an expanding customer base. As his reputation grew, so did the size of his clients’ properties. His father recognized this growth potential and invested in his son’s venture with a stand-up mower and gas equipment—tools that enabled Angel to scale his operations and take on larger contracts.
Angel is most proud of two major contracts a three-acre church property and a five-acre pecan grove. At St. Catherine CME Church, his responsibilities include navigating delicate terrain around tombstones and maintaining flower beds. The pecan grove presented a different kind of opportunity, as the elderly owner entrusted Angel with operating his tractor—a job the man could no longer physically manage himself. These high-value contracts confirmed what Angel was building wasn’t just a summer gig but a legitimate business with growth potential.
His Puerto Rican heritage influences his approach to entrepreneurship by instilling a focus on community and collective support. Angel views his business skills as tools to address specific needs within his community. He aims to create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued, bringing his cultural awareness to his entrepreneurial ventures. This emphasis on community bonds strengthens his business relationships and positions him to understand diverse market needs.
Angel’s entrepreneurial spirit parallels his commitment to community service. Recognized with the Silver Key Club of Service in 2024, he completed over 147 hours of volunteer work spanning food drives, park clean-ups, and shelter assistance. One of his most meaningful service experiences involved cutting his elderly neighbors’ lawn—whom he affectionately called “Nana and Papa”—free of charge. “I loved volunteering my services,” Angel shares, noting how he maintained their yard to the exacting standards “Papa” had once kept before age limited his abilities.
At Silver Bluff High School, Angel balances entrepreneurship with academics and athletics while also pursuing career training in electricity and being an active member of the Technical Honor Society. On the playing field, Angel contributes as part of the baseball and football teams, and in perhaps his most spirited role, serves as the school mascot—bringing energy and enthusiasm to school events. He brings the same dedication to his coursework that he applies to his business and athletic pursuits, constantly seeking to improve his knowledge and abilities.
Angel plans to attend South Carolina State University, the University of South Carolina Aiken, or Claflin University to study electrical engineering, bringing with him the independence and work ethic he developed as a young entrepreneur.
Angel Fontanez Jr.
College: South Carolina State University, University of South Carolina Aiken, Claflin University
Major: Electrical Engineering
High School: Silver Bluff High School
Hometown: Beech Island, SC
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
For Angel “AJ” Fontanez Jr., entrepreneurship sprouted from sunshine, grass clippings, and the sweet scent of financial independence. Starting with just a set of battery-operated equipment and his aunt’s social media promotion, this young businessman quickly gained traction. A single post germinated into five weekly yards, then regular clients. “My name and unbeatable prices started making their way around,” Angel says, watching his client base and bank account grow in tandem.
The rewards of entrepreneurship resonated immediately with Angel. “My schedule is very flexible. I can book jobs around my baseball games and practices,” he shares, appreciating how his business accommodates his athletic commitments. Financial autonomy ranks high among his motivations: “Making my own money is a huge reward as I have a car to maintain. I do not have to ask my parents for gas money, money for snacks, or money for everyday items.”
His business savvy extends beyond mowing techniques to understanding the psychology of pricing and marketing. Angel’s “unbeatable prices” became his competitive advantage, spreading through word-of-mouth to attract an expanding customer base. As his reputation grew, so did the size of his clients’ properties. His father recognized this growth potential and invested in his son’s venture with a stand-up mower and gas equipment—tools that enabled Angel to scale his operations and take on larger contracts.
Angel is most proud of two major contracts a three-acre church property and a five-acre pecan grove. At St. Catherine CME Church, his responsibilities include navigating delicate terrain around tombstones and maintaining flower beds. The pecan grove presented a different kind of opportunity, as the elderly owner entrusted Angel with operating his tractor—a job the man could no longer physically manage himself. These high-value contracts confirmed what Angel was building wasn’t just a summer gig but a legitimate business with growth potential.
His Puerto Rican heritage influences his approach to entrepreneurship by instilling a focus on community and collective support. Angel views his business skills as tools to address specific needs within his community. He aims to create inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued, bringing his cultural awareness to his entrepreneurial ventures. This emphasis on community bonds strengthens his business relationships and positions him to understand diverse market needs.
Angel’s entrepreneurial spirit parallels his commitment to community service. Recognized with the Silver Key Club of Service in 2024, he completed over 147 hours of volunteer work spanning food drives, park clean-ups, and shelter assistance. One of his most meaningful service experiences involved cutting his elderly neighbors’ lawn—whom he affectionately called “Nana and Papa”—free of charge. “I loved volunteering my services,” Angel shares, noting how he maintained their yard to the exacting standards “Papa” had once kept before age limited his abilities.
At Silver Bluff High School, Angel balances entrepreneurship with academics and athletics while also pursuing career training in electricity and being an active member of the Technical Honor Society. On the playing field, Angel contributes as part of the baseball and football teams, and in perhaps his most spirited role, serves as the school mascot—bringing energy and enthusiasm to school events. He brings the same dedication to his coursework that he applies to his business and athletic pursuits, constantly seeking to improve his knowledge and abilities.
Angel plans to attend South Carolina State University, the University of South Carolina Aiken, or Claflin University to study electrical engineering, bringing with him the independence and work ethic he developed as a young entrepreneur.
SILVER - Alan Cortes
SILVER
Alan Cortes
College: Auburn University, University of Alabama, Georgia Institute of Technology
Major: Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Computer Science
High School: Jefferson County International Baccalaureate
Hometown: Birmingham, AL
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
While at home at the height of the pandemic, Alan Cortes found himself in a dilemma—he needed a haircut. Wanting to switch his style, he took matters into his own hands. So, locking himself in the bathroom with clippers, he unexpectedly gave himself a crooked fade and uneven patches. Little did he know that brief mishap would spark a new interest, inspire him to practice his skills, and launch an entrepreneurial venture a few months later.
“As I improved, I started my own barber business and offered it to my friends and family, building up a regular clientele,” Cortes said of the experience. “This stands out as my proudest accomplishment in entrepreneurship because it resulted from an experiment that ended terribly. I found it rewarding to provide services that help others feel confident.”
Through cutting hair, the scholar-athlete at Jefferson County International Baccalaureate in Alabama enjoyed learning valuable life lessons while providing services to his community. From running a small business, he also learned the power of hard work, dealing with challenges, and finding ways to improve his craft.
However, Cortes also acknowledges the positive influence of those close to him and is grateful to his parents for all they have done for him. Growing up in a Mexican household, he saw his family work hard and support others, even when they needed support at times. His mother taught him about generosity and service. Following her example, he found ways to contribute. As vice president of the Beta Club at school, he organized drives for shelters and planned events for other students to volunteer in the local community. He also participated in his town’s “Yo amo Irondale” Hispanic Heritage Festival and the Christmas Parade, where he set up booths and gave away snacks to children—experiences that gave him fulfillment and a sense of purpose.
Another relative also opened his eyes to the possibilities of taking initiative. Reflecting on a trip to visit family in Mexico, he shares that watching his uncle Samuel run his corn farming business was one of the biggest highlights. From discovering the process of planting corn to seeing the tractor and sorting grains, he learned a lot, but what sticks with him the most is that even in a rural setting with limited funds, his uncle was able to start his own business and build connections with large corporations, turning his dedication into profit.
From then on, Cortes took that inspiration and realized his potential. Now, his goal is to improve his skills as a barber, earn his cosmetology degree, and ultimately run his own barbershop. He shares that he is proud to follow in his uncle’s footsteps and live his version of the American dream built by Mexican influence.
With his strong work ethic and dedication, Alan Cortes plans on carrying forward the perseverance his family taught him. The next step in his promising journey is to attend Auburn University, the University of Alabama, or the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he will pursue mechanical engineering and computer science.
Alan Cortes
College: Auburn University, University of Alabama, Georgia Institute of Technology
Major: Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Computer Science
High School: Jefferson County International Baccalaureate
Hometown: Birmingham, AL
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
While at home at the height of the pandemic, Alan Cortes found himself in a dilemma—he needed a haircut. Wanting to switch his style, he took matters into his own hands. So, locking himself in the bathroom with clippers, he unexpectedly gave himself a crooked fade and uneven patches. Little did he know that brief mishap would spark a new interest, inspire him to practice his skills, and launch an entrepreneurial venture a few months later.
“As I improved, I started my own barber business and offered it to my friends and family, building up a regular clientele,” Cortes said of the experience. “This stands out as my proudest accomplishment in entrepreneurship because it resulted from an experiment that ended terribly. I found it rewarding to provide services that help others feel confident.”
Through cutting hair, the scholar-athlete at Jefferson County International Baccalaureate in Alabama enjoyed learning valuable life lessons while providing services to his community. From running a small business, he also learned the power of hard work, dealing with challenges, and finding ways to improve his craft.
However, Cortes also acknowledges the positive influence of those close to him and is grateful to his parents for all they have done for him. Growing up in a Mexican household, he saw his family work hard and support others, even when they needed support at times. His mother taught him about generosity and service. Following her example, he found ways to contribute. As vice president of the Beta Club at school, he organized drives for shelters and planned events for other students to volunteer in the local community. He also participated in his town’s “Yo amo Irondale” Hispanic Heritage Festival and the Christmas Parade, where he set up booths and gave away snacks to children—experiences that gave him fulfillment and a sense of purpose.
Another relative also opened his eyes to the possibilities of taking initiative. Reflecting on a trip to visit family in Mexico, he shares that watching his uncle Samuel run his corn farming business was one of the biggest highlights. From discovering the process of planting corn to seeing the tractor and sorting grains, he learned a lot, but what sticks with him the most is that even in a rural setting with limited funds, his uncle was able to start his own business and build connections with large corporations, turning his dedication into profit.
From then on, Cortes took that inspiration and realized his potential. Now, his goal is to improve his skills as a barber, earn his cosmetology degree, and ultimately run his own barbershop. He shares that he is proud to follow in his uncle’s footsteps and live his version of the American dream built by Mexican influence.
With his strong work ethic and dedication, Alan Cortes plans on carrying forward the perseverance his family taught him. The next step in his promising journey is to attend Auburn University, the University of Alabama, or the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he will pursue mechanical engineering and computer science.
BRONZE - Maria Morales
BRONZE
Maria Morales
College: Roger Williams University, Clarkson University, Northern Illinois University
Major: Business with a minor in Finance
High School: Center Point High School
Hometown: Center Point, AL
Hispanic Heritage: Salvadoran
Maria Morales discovered her entrepreneurial spark when she joined her school’s DECA club, where business simulations were more than academic exercises—they were launching pads for her creative thinking. DECA competitions taught her essential business fundamentals while igniting something greater: the joy of crafting and presenting business plans. Her aptitude quickly earned recognition, culminating in a state award for a community-focused app project.
Classroom theory came alive for Maria through advanced business courses in marketing and entrepreneurship. Through a simulated startup project, working from concept to execution, she gained important business experience. Her virtual company might have been imaginary, but it still delivered real-world lessons in market research, customer feedback, and financial planning—the bread and butter of any successful entrepreneur. “These activities not only lead to a deeper understanding of business concepts,” Maria explains, “but also stimulates the passion of being an entrepreneur.”
Among her entrepreneurial successes, Maria takes particular pride in launching a sustainable product line that prioritizes eco-friendly practices without compromising quality. This initiative, born from her personal commitment to reducing environmental impact, evolved into a full-fledged business strategy that aligned profits with purpose. Her team’s research, strategic partnerships with like-minded suppliers, and strong marketing campaign, resonated so effectively with their customers that within just one year, these new eco-friendly products accounted for 30% of their sales, proving that principles and profits can go hand-in-hand, and validating Maria’s belief that that entrepreneurship isn’t just about the bottom line but about making ethical choices
Growing up in a Salvadoran household equipped Maria with values she carries into her entrepreneurial pursuits. “Being humble and resilient” became her foundation, while awareness of diverse community needs shaped her business approach. This perspective inspired her to create a school program spotlighting Hispanic-owned businesses, organizing activities where students could learn directly from local entrepreneurs. These events did double duty: promoting local businesses while fostering pride and connection among peers who saw themselves represented in successful business owners who looked like them. Through these experiences, she learned that meaningful relationships matter more than transactional networking.
Service flows naturally through Maria’s life, taught by parents who emphasized helping others “especially in the hard times.” From volunteering at food banks since middle school to organizing community clean-ups that revitalized neglected parks and tutoring younger students, Maria finds fulfillment in serving her community.
Beyond her entrepreneurial and community pursuits, she excels academically, earning consistent recognition on the A Honor Roll, while balancing an active athletic life, participating in tennis, golf, and swimming at Center Point High School.
Maria’s journey continues as she prepares to study business with a minor in finance at Roger Williams University, Clarkson University, or Northern Illinois University. Armed with her experience in sustainable business practices and community service, she aims to become the kind of entrepreneur who measures success not just in dollars, but in positive impact.
Maria Morales
College: Roger Williams University, Clarkson University, Northern Illinois University
Major: Business with a minor in Finance
High School: Center Point High School
Hometown: Center Point, AL
Hispanic Heritage: Salvadoran
Maria Morales discovered her entrepreneurial spark when she joined her school’s DECA club, where business simulations were more than academic exercises—they were launching pads for her creative thinking. DECA competitions taught her essential business fundamentals while igniting something greater: the joy of crafting and presenting business plans. Her aptitude quickly earned recognition, culminating in a state award for a community-focused app project.
Classroom theory came alive for Maria through advanced business courses in marketing and entrepreneurship. Through a simulated startup project, working from concept to execution, she gained important business experience. Her virtual company might have been imaginary, but it still delivered real-world lessons in market research, customer feedback, and financial planning—the bread and butter of any successful entrepreneur. “These activities not only lead to a deeper understanding of business concepts,” Maria explains, “but also stimulates the passion of being an entrepreneur.”
Among her entrepreneurial successes, Maria takes particular pride in launching a sustainable product line that prioritizes eco-friendly practices without compromising quality. This initiative, born from her personal commitment to reducing environmental impact, evolved into a full-fledged business strategy that aligned profits with purpose. Her team’s research, strategic partnerships with like-minded suppliers, and strong marketing campaign, resonated so effectively with their customers that within just one year, these new eco-friendly products accounted for 30% of their sales, proving that principles and profits can go hand-in-hand, and validating Maria’s belief that that entrepreneurship isn’t just about the bottom line but about making ethical choices
Growing up in a Salvadoran household equipped Maria with values she carries into her entrepreneurial pursuits. “Being humble and resilient” became her foundation, while awareness of diverse community needs shaped her business approach. This perspective inspired her to create a school program spotlighting Hispanic-owned businesses, organizing activities where students could learn directly from local entrepreneurs. These events did double duty: promoting local businesses while fostering pride and connection among peers who saw themselves represented in successful business owners who looked like them. Through these experiences, she learned that meaningful relationships matter more than transactional networking.
Service flows naturally through Maria’s life, taught by parents who emphasized helping others “especially in the hard times.” From volunteering at food banks since middle school to organizing community clean-ups that revitalized neglected parks and tutoring younger students, Maria finds fulfillment in serving her community.
Beyond her entrepreneurial and community pursuits, she excels academically, earning consistent recognition on the A Honor Roll, while balancing an active athletic life, participating in tennis, golf, and swimming at Center Point High School.
Maria’s journey continues as she prepares to study business with a minor in finance at Roger Williams University, Clarkson University, or Northern Illinois University. Armed with her experience in sustainable business practices and community service, she aims to become the kind of entrepreneur who measures success not just in dollars, but in positive impact.
Pink Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Celeste Santiago-Sacarello
GOLD
Celeste Santiago-Sacarello
College: University of Southern Indiana, Indiana University Bloomington, Vincennes University
Major: Business with a Marketing concentration with a minor in Graphic Design
High School: Washington Catholic High School
Hometown: Washington, IN
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
There is a positive feeling when paying investors back from profits made through your efforts. It’s an even better feeling when the investors happen to be your parents. For Celeste Santiago-Sacarello, this is her proudest accomplishment in entrepreneurship—and all due to the success of her self-made custom nail art business.
Before officially launching this venture, Santiago-Sacarello thoroughly researched the product and what it takes to run a successful business. After receiving the loan from her parents and buying all the necessary supplies, she marketed them to her target audience, eventually gaining a steady customer base of people who genuinely loved her products and saw value in them.
Reflecting on this endeavor, she says, “With each sale, I became closer to paying off my debt to my parents. The day I was able to pay them back was a core memory. This achievement stands out because it showed me that if I believed in myself and put in the work I could run a successful business.” Another thing it proved to her is that people are willing to invest in her because of the value she brings.
The straight-A honor student at Washington Catholic High School in Indiana acknowledges her parents and teachers for encouraging her to take opportunities and continue to learn. Taking their advice, she challenged herself by taking classes such as Economics Fundamentals, an Ivy Tech dual credit class teaching her about the market, sales, and finances, and joining the Daviess County CEO class featuring speakers from successful businesses in her county.
As a result of these efforts, the young entrepreneur, who is of Puerto Rican descent, strengthened her dedication and perseverance while pushing herself out of her comfort zone. Her Hispanic background also played a part by providing her with a different perspective than most in approaching business and entrepreneurship. Similar values such as the importance of connectivity and empathy are at the forefront of her core business values. Additionally, she says growing up she didn’t see many people like her pursuing entrepreneurship, which further inspired her to break stereotypical barriers to become an example for young Hispanics.
Another area where Santiago-Sacarello is making a positive impact is in the community. Active in several service projects, big and small, she has volunteered in her school’s vacation bible school program, working with kids, and is also involved in parish service projects, such as delivering meals to homebound parishioners. Other ways she is making a difference include serving as the president of her school chapter of The National Beta Club and by volunteering at Feed My Sheep, singing Christmas carols to nursing home residents, tutoring another Spanish-speaking student, and organizing projects for her county 4-H Fair, gardening work at the Veale Creek Theater, and supporting the Ronald McDonald House organization, among other activities.
Driven and dedicated to helping others, Celeste Santiago-Sacarello leads by example—and no doubt will achieve great things in the next phase of her journey when she attends the University of Southern Indiana, Indiana University Bloomington, or Vincennes University to pursue a degree in business with a marketing concentration and a minor in graphic design.
Celeste Santiago-Sacarello
College: University of Southern Indiana, Indiana University Bloomington, Vincennes University
Major: Business with a Marketing concentration with a minor in Graphic Design
High School: Washington Catholic High School
Hometown: Washington, IN
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
There is a positive feeling when paying investors back from profits made through your efforts. It’s an even better feeling when the investors happen to be your parents. For Celeste Santiago-Sacarello, this is her proudest accomplishment in entrepreneurship—and all due to the success of her self-made custom nail art business.
Before officially launching this venture, Santiago-Sacarello thoroughly researched the product and what it takes to run a successful business. After receiving the loan from her parents and buying all the necessary supplies, she marketed them to her target audience, eventually gaining a steady customer base of people who genuinely loved her products and saw value in them.
Reflecting on this endeavor, she says, “With each sale, I became closer to paying off my debt to my parents. The day I was able to pay them back was a core memory. This achievement stands out because it showed me that if I believed in myself and put in the work I could run a successful business.” Another thing it proved to her is that people are willing to invest in her because of the value she brings.
The straight-A honor student at Washington Catholic High School in Indiana acknowledges her parents and teachers for encouraging her to take opportunities and continue to learn. Taking their advice, she challenged herself by taking classes such as Economics Fundamentals, an Ivy Tech dual credit class teaching her about the market, sales, and finances, and joining the Daviess County CEO class featuring speakers from successful businesses in her county.
As a result of these efforts, the young entrepreneur, who is of Puerto Rican descent, strengthened her dedication and perseverance while pushing herself out of her comfort zone. Her Hispanic background also played a part by providing her with a different perspective than most in approaching business and entrepreneurship. Similar values such as the importance of connectivity and empathy are at the forefront of her core business values. Additionally, she says growing up she didn’t see many people like her pursuing entrepreneurship, which further inspired her to break stereotypical barriers to become an example for young Hispanics.
Another area where Santiago-Sacarello is making a positive impact is in the community. Active in several service projects, big and small, she has volunteered in her school’s vacation bible school program, working with kids, and is also involved in parish service projects, such as delivering meals to homebound parishioners. Other ways she is making a difference include serving as the president of her school chapter of The National Beta Club and by volunteering at Feed My Sheep, singing Christmas carols to nursing home residents, tutoring another Spanish-speaking student, and organizing projects for her county 4-H Fair, gardening work at the Veale Creek Theater, and supporting the Ronald McDonald House organization, among other activities.
Driven and dedicated to helping others, Celeste Santiago-Sacarello leads by example—and no doubt will achieve great things in the next phase of her journey when she attends the University of Southern Indiana, Indiana University Bloomington, or Vincennes University to pursue a degree in business with a marketing concentration and a minor in graphic design.
SILVER - Julianna Jara
SILVER
Julianna Jara
College: Mid-America College of Funeral Service, Ivy Tech Community College - Indianapolis, Vincennes University
Major: Funeral Service Education with a minor in Sustainable Funeral Services
High School: Lafayette Jefferson High School
Hometown: Lafayette, IN
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Bugs might scare some people away, but not Julianna Jara. Not only is she passionate about them, but they are the focus of her small business, which is her proudest accomplishment to date. Today, she operates this endeavor through an exclusive Instagram page but plans to launch a dedicated full-fledged website soon. Of her unique venture, she says, “Some see it as a strange hobby, but it’s something that brings me joy. I keep all kinds of critters. I have hundreds of isopods, such as pill bugs and roly-polies, of all colors and sizes, 50-plus snails, millipedes, and several others. I breed and sell them.”
While her bug business is still growing, Jara is making strides, including signing up as a vendor at the local reptile and exotic animal expo. Through the experience, she hopes to make a name for herself and meet others who can give her advice. As to what piqued an interest in entrepreneurship, it all began in the sixth grade when her class participated in Junior Achievement BizTown. Initially shy, she was selected to be the CEO of the radio station and enjoyed working with her team. Actually, she liked it so much that it made her want to pursue business in real life.
Knowing she still has a lot to learn, the exceptional student at Lafayette Jefferson High School in Indiana looks forward to all the possibilities that will unfold. In the future, she is taking a different direction and plans to study mortuary science and one day have her own funeral home. As for how her heritage influenced her approach to business, Jara, who is of Mexican descent, says that while her Hispanic heritage did not influence the creation of her current small shop, it did inspire her to run her own funeral home. Specifically, she points to where she lives, and despite having a large Hispanic population, out of the seven funeral homes in the area, none have Spanish speakers, which causes a lot of miscommunication and other issues. For that reason, she envisions having her own funeral home that the Hispanic community can rely on to give their loved ones proper care. Along with being something that her community desperately needs, it is her way of being able to help others.
As for her community, Jara says that her family and culture inspire her to give back. From helping to cook and serve food at school on family dinner nights to making rosaries to donate to the church, working as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army during the winter, and volunteering with Best Buddies, she does what she can when the opportunity arises.
Always wanting to do more, Juliana Jara is ready to achieve her entrepreneurial dreams and will attend Mid-America College of Funeral Service, Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, or Vincennes University to pursue funeral service education with a minor in sustainable funeral services.
Julianna Jara
College: Mid-America College of Funeral Service, Ivy Tech Community College - Indianapolis, Vincennes University
Major: Funeral Service Education with a minor in Sustainable Funeral Services
High School: Lafayette Jefferson High School
Hometown: Lafayette, IN
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Bugs might scare some people away, but not Julianna Jara. Not only is she passionate about them, but they are the focus of her small business, which is her proudest accomplishment to date. Today, she operates this endeavor through an exclusive Instagram page but plans to launch a dedicated full-fledged website soon. Of her unique venture, she says, “Some see it as a strange hobby, but it’s something that brings me joy. I keep all kinds of critters. I have hundreds of isopods, such as pill bugs and roly-polies, of all colors and sizes, 50-plus snails, millipedes, and several others. I breed and sell them.”
While her bug business is still growing, Jara is making strides, including signing up as a vendor at the local reptile and exotic animal expo. Through the experience, she hopes to make a name for herself and meet others who can give her advice. As to what piqued an interest in entrepreneurship, it all began in the sixth grade when her class participated in Junior Achievement BizTown. Initially shy, she was selected to be the CEO of the radio station and enjoyed working with her team. Actually, she liked it so much that it made her want to pursue business in real life.
Knowing she still has a lot to learn, the exceptional student at Lafayette Jefferson High School in Indiana looks forward to all the possibilities that will unfold. In the future, she is taking a different direction and plans to study mortuary science and one day have her own funeral home. As for how her heritage influenced her approach to business, Jara, who is of Mexican descent, says that while her Hispanic heritage did not influence the creation of her current small shop, it did inspire her to run her own funeral home. Specifically, she points to where she lives, and despite having a large Hispanic population, out of the seven funeral homes in the area, none have Spanish speakers, which causes a lot of miscommunication and other issues. For that reason, she envisions having her own funeral home that the Hispanic community can rely on to give their loved ones proper care. Along with being something that her community desperately needs, it is her way of being able to help others.
As for her community, Jara says that her family and culture inspire her to give back. From helping to cook and serve food at school on family dinner nights to making rosaries to donate to the church, working as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army during the winter, and volunteering with Best Buddies, she does what she can when the opportunity arises.
Always wanting to do more, Juliana Jara is ready to achieve her entrepreneurial dreams and will attend Mid-America College of Funeral Service, Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, or Vincennes University to pursue funeral service education with a minor in sustainable funeral services.
BRONZE - Cecilia Amial
BRONZE
Cecilia Amial
College: University of Illinois Chicago, Elmhurst University, DePaul University
Major: Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship
High School: Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy
Hometown: Northlake, IL
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Cecilia Amial’s entrepreneurial story begins with family. Her uncle and aunt’s mini grocery store—a place where customers could purchase anything from fresh produce to household tools—provided her first masterclass in business. Growing up watching them run their store, she witnessed their gradual progress over the years as their modest operation expanded. Their success planted the seeds of possibility in Cecilia’s mind: with dedication and persistence, she too could forge her own path in business. This early exposure to entrepreneurship showed her that success doesn’t happen overnight but grows through consistent effort. Yet these early observations, while formative, were just the foundation. It was during her time at Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy, where she stepped into the role of Class of 2025 president, that Cecilia found her leadership voice. This role taught her important lessons about listening to others and setting examples. This combination of family influence and personal growth created the perfect groundwork for her future business ventures—showing her that entrepreneurial success requires both the patient persistence she witnessed at her family’s store and the people skills she developed while leading her peers.
The opportunity to apply these entrepreneurial insights came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when fourteen-year-old Cecilia turned to bracelet-making as a creative escape. “It is an activity that allowed me to express my ideas, a way of distracting myself from reality,” she explains. While initially a personal hobby, the activity took a business turn when her mother recognized potential in Cecilia’s designs. “She expressed to me how my designs were unique, and I could start a business out of it,” Cecilia recalls. With her family’s business example in mind, she decided to test the entrepreneurial waters.
Drawing on the people skills she had developed as class president, Cecilia began marketing her bracelets to family members. They became her first customers and promoters, recommending her creations to their networks. Her business grew organically as friends purchased bracelets, inadvertently becoming walking advertisements for her work. “Many people saw my bracelets on my friends and began buying from me. Then little by little, my bracelet business began to grow,” she shares. Like her uncle and aunt’s grocery store, her venture expanded gradually through consistent effort and word-of-mouth promotion.
“I never thought that at the age of fourteen, I would have my own business, let alone that my bracelet business would be successful,” Cecilia reflects. The uncertainty that accompanied her first business steps gradually gave way to confidence as she saw the positive reception to her creations. “When I started this business, I was not sure if it would work. Seeing that many people enjoyed my designs made me happy, and I gained the confidence to go out and promote my business to more people.” This early venture taught her practical lessons about product creation, promotion, and customer relationships—knowledge that continues to inform her entrepreneurial outlook. It also confirmed for Cecilia what she had observed in her family’s business—success requires taking risks and persevering through uncertainty.
At Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy, Cecilia excels in challenging courses including AP Calculus AB and BC, AP Seminar, AP Research, and more. Her calculus teacher, Michael Bokar, observes her eagerness to engage with college-level mathematical concepts and her commitment to learning and growth, noting how she formed study groups to help classmates navigate the demanding coursework. “Cecilia’s intellectual curiosity, work ethic, and supportive nature set a high standard,” he writes.
Community service has become another important avenue for Cecilia’s leadership. Every Saturday, Cecilia steps away from schoolwork to visit her uncle at a nursing home. These regular visits revealed a broader need—many residents lacked regular family contact and companionship. Taking initiative, she approached the nursion home’s social worker about extending her visits to include other residents. These interactions have become meaningful exchanges where Cecilia gains wisdom from elders while providing much-needed connection. Beyond individual visits, Cecilia helps organize events at the facility—from sweet treat sales to gospel and bingo gatherings—creating moments of joy and community for residents who might otherwise feel isolated.
Cecilia’s event organization and leadership abilities continue to shine through her contributions to the Class of 2025 Club at Proviso, where she organizes fundraising initiatives for prom. Bokar notes that she consistently demonstrates responsibility and organizational skills in these efforts, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact on her peers. She also participates in her school’s Hispanic/Latin Cultural Assembly, connecting with her cultural heritage while creating inclusive spaces for fellow students.
Cecilia will head to the University of Illinois Chicago, Elmhurst University, or DePaul University to pursue business administration with a minor in entrepreneurship, carrying with her the belief that the best entrepreneurs measure success not just by the size of their profits, but by the strength of their communities.
Cecilia Amial
College: University of Illinois Chicago, Elmhurst University, DePaul University
Major: Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship
High School: Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy
Hometown: Northlake, IL
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Cecilia Amial’s entrepreneurial story begins with family. Her uncle and aunt’s mini grocery store—a place where customers could purchase anything from fresh produce to household tools—provided her first masterclass in business. Growing up watching them run their store, she witnessed their gradual progress over the years as their modest operation expanded. Their success planted the seeds of possibility in Cecilia’s mind: with dedication and persistence, she too could forge her own path in business. This early exposure to entrepreneurship showed her that success doesn’t happen overnight but grows through consistent effort. Yet these early observations, while formative, were just the foundation. It was during her time at Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy, where she stepped into the role of Class of 2025 president, that Cecilia found her leadership voice. This role taught her important lessons about listening to others and setting examples. This combination of family influence and personal growth created the perfect groundwork for her future business ventures—showing her that entrepreneurial success requires both the patient persistence she witnessed at her family’s store and the people skills she developed while leading her peers.
The opportunity to apply these entrepreneurial insights came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when fourteen-year-old Cecilia turned to bracelet-making as a creative escape. “It is an activity that allowed me to express my ideas, a way of distracting myself from reality,” she explains. While initially a personal hobby, the activity took a business turn when her mother recognized potential in Cecilia’s designs. “She expressed to me how my designs were unique, and I could start a business out of it,” Cecilia recalls. With her family’s business example in mind, she decided to test the entrepreneurial waters.
Drawing on the people skills she had developed as class president, Cecilia began marketing her bracelets to family members. They became her first customers and promoters, recommending her creations to their networks. Her business grew organically as friends purchased bracelets, inadvertently becoming walking advertisements for her work. “Many people saw my bracelets on my friends and began buying from me. Then little by little, my bracelet business began to grow,” she shares. Like her uncle and aunt’s grocery store, her venture expanded gradually through consistent effort and word-of-mouth promotion.
“I never thought that at the age of fourteen, I would have my own business, let alone that my bracelet business would be successful,” Cecilia reflects. The uncertainty that accompanied her first business steps gradually gave way to confidence as she saw the positive reception to her creations. “When I started this business, I was not sure if it would work. Seeing that many people enjoyed my designs made me happy, and I gained the confidence to go out and promote my business to more people.” This early venture taught her practical lessons about product creation, promotion, and customer relationships—knowledge that continues to inform her entrepreneurial outlook. It also confirmed for Cecilia what she had observed in her family’s business—success requires taking risks and persevering through uncertainty.
At Proviso Mathematics and Science Academy, Cecilia excels in challenging courses including AP Calculus AB and BC, AP Seminar, AP Research, and more. Her calculus teacher, Michael Bokar, observes her eagerness to engage with college-level mathematical concepts and her commitment to learning and growth, noting how she formed study groups to help classmates navigate the demanding coursework. “Cecilia’s intellectual curiosity, work ethic, and supportive nature set a high standard,” he writes.
Community service has become another important avenue for Cecilia’s leadership. Every Saturday, Cecilia steps away from schoolwork to visit her uncle at a nursing home. These regular visits revealed a broader need—many residents lacked regular family contact and companionship. Taking initiative, she approached the nursion home’s social worker about extending her visits to include other residents. These interactions have become meaningful exchanges where Cecilia gains wisdom from elders while providing much-needed connection. Beyond individual visits, Cecilia helps organize events at the facility—from sweet treat sales to gospel and bingo gatherings—creating moments of joy and community for residents who might otherwise feel isolated.
Cecilia’s event organization and leadership abilities continue to shine through her contributions to the Class of 2025 Club at Proviso, where she organizes fundraising initiatives for prom. Bokar notes that she consistently demonstrates responsibility and organizational skills in these efforts, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact on her peers. She also participates in her school’s Hispanic/Latin Cultural Assembly, connecting with her cultural heritage while creating inclusive spaces for fellow students.
Cecilia will head to the University of Illinois Chicago, Elmhurst University, or DePaul University to pursue business administration with a minor in entrepreneurship, carrying with her the belief that the best entrepreneurs measure success not just by the size of their profits, but by the strength of their communities.
Purple Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Estela Jauregui Jauregui
GOLD
Estela Jauregui Jauregui
College: Stanford University, University of Southern California, University of California, Berkeley
Major: Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Business Administration or Finance
High School: Aspire Golden State Preparatory Academy
Hometown: Oakland, CA
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Empty stomachs and hungry minds—these twin challenges sparked Estela Jauregui Jauregui’s entrepreneurial fire. The Oakland native’s business journey began at UC Berkeley’s Boost@Berkeley Haas program, where she created Food For Change, a non-profit tackling food insecurity in East Oakland. “What began as a program project evolved into my proudest achievement,” Estela explains, describing her business model offering affordable, nutritious meals to low-income families. Her approach included crafting financial projections, analyzing market research, and refining menus based on community feedback—efforts that earned her team recognition at the program’s annual Business Proposal Competition.
Her entrepreneurial success continued when she led a team to victory in her school’s annual Business Plan Competition through the Berkeley United in Literacy Development (BUILD) Entrepreneurship program. Collaborating with four classmates, Estela developed EduPlay, a website offering free educational games for teenagers. Despite lacking programming experience, the team taught themselves through online resources and YouTube tutorials. Their product was an adaptation of Temple Run that seamlessly integrated mathematical problem-solving. Players encountered timed math challenges at each obstacle, with the game’s difficulty adjusting based on performance. After months of dedication, they presented their business proposal to a panel of Bay Area investors and entrepreneurs, winning first place in the competition and validating their vision of making quality educational resources accessible to all students.
Estela’s understanding of entrepreneurship began long before high school. Since age 12, she has worked alongside her father in his welding business, experiencing firsthand the challenges and triumphs of running a small business. “I’ve seen my dad push through long days in the shop, dealing with unexpected setbacks like workers quitting without notice, while also navigating the extra hurdle of being an English learner in a primarily English-speaking business world,” she shares. From assisting around the shop, Estela grew into managing client communications, creating invoices, and scheduling estimates—essentially serving as the family business’s unofficial office manager. This practical experience taught her that success comes from more than just hard work—it requires persistence, adaptability, and creative solutions to overcome barriers.
Her Mexican heritage shapes her business vision. As a first-generation Mexican-American Latina, Estela sees entrepreneurship as a vehicle for community uplift rather than just personal gain. “Education is not just a personal achievement; it’s about creating new opportunities and lifting each other to make a meaningful difference in our community,” she explains. This perspective drives her to address gaps she sees firsthand—whether creating affordable food options or developing educational resources for underserved students.
At Aspire Golden State Preparatory Academy, Estela wasn’t content with limited course offerings. She carved her own path through community college classes and educational programs outside school hours. She maintains a stellar 3.94 unweighted GPA while pursuing a rigorous course load, including community college classes in microeconomics, drawing and composition, and pre-calculus. Her academic excellence has earned her a place on the Presidential Honor Roll and recognition as both a QuestBridge Prep Scholar and a QuestBridge National College Match Finalist.
Her former English teacher, Rebecca Delgado, describes Estela as someone who “made sure everyone knew she was in charge of her own fate and future.” When faced with the challenge of AP World History, Estela led study groups and advocated for additional support, helping her class achieve the highest passing rate for the AP World History test in five years. “Her ‘leave no man behind’ attitude,” writes Delgado, exemplifies Estela’s commitment to lifting others as she rises.
Beyond academics and entrepreneurship, Estela extends her impact through community service. Recognizing the educational disparities facing Hispanic students, she offers free tutoring in math and English to younger students in her community and advocates for greater Hispanic representation in higher education through programs like AVID and the Raices Recruitment and Retention Center. She also actively participates in programs like Destination College Advising Corps/Early Academic Outreach Program, Helping Youth Pursue Higher Education Early, and ANova, creating networks with other Latino students around the Bay Area to discuss ideas that can benefit their communities.
Estela plans to attend Stanford University, the University of Southern California, or the University of California, Berkeley to study mechanical engineering with a minor in business administration or finance. For this remarkable young entrepreneur, business is more than just about profit margins—it’s about creating solutions that address community needs and open doors of opportunity in places where they’ve been too long closed.
Estela Jauregui Jauregui
College: Stanford University, University of Southern California, University of California, Berkeley
Major: Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Business Administration or Finance
High School: Aspire Golden State Preparatory Academy
Hometown: Oakland, CA
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Empty stomachs and hungry minds—these twin challenges sparked Estela Jauregui Jauregui’s entrepreneurial fire. The Oakland native’s business journey began at UC Berkeley’s Boost@Berkeley Haas program, where she created Food For Change, a non-profit tackling food insecurity in East Oakland. “What began as a program project evolved into my proudest achievement,” Estela explains, describing her business model offering affordable, nutritious meals to low-income families. Her approach included crafting financial projections, analyzing market research, and refining menus based on community feedback—efforts that earned her team recognition at the program’s annual Business Proposal Competition.
Her entrepreneurial success continued when she led a team to victory in her school’s annual Business Plan Competition through the Berkeley United in Literacy Development (BUILD) Entrepreneurship program. Collaborating with four classmates, Estela developed EduPlay, a website offering free educational games for teenagers. Despite lacking programming experience, the team taught themselves through online resources and YouTube tutorials. Their product was an adaptation of Temple Run that seamlessly integrated mathematical problem-solving. Players encountered timed math challenges at each obstacle, with the game’s difficulty adjusting based on performance. After months of dedication, they presented their business proposal to a panel of Bay Area investors and entrepreneurs, winning first place in the competition and validating their vision of making quality educational resources accessible to all students.
Estela’s understanding of entrepreneurship began long before high school. Since age 12, she has worked alongside her father in his welding business, experiencing firsthand the challenges and triumphs of running a small business. “I’ve seen my dad push through long days in the shop, dealing with unexpected setbacks like workers quitting without notice, while also navigating the extra hurdle of being an English learner in a primarily English-speaking business world,” she shares. From assisting around the shop, Estela grew into managing client communications, creating invoices, and scheduling estimates—essentially serving as the family business’s unofficial office manager. This practical experience taught her that success comes from more than just hard work—it requires persistence, adaptability, and creative solutions to overcome barriers.
Her Mexican heritage shapes her business vision. As a first-generation Mexican-American Latina, Estela sees entrepreneurship as a vehicle for community uplift rather than just personal gain. “Education is not just a personal achievement; it’s about creating new opportunities and lifting each other to make a meaningful difference in our community,” she explains. This perspective drives her to address gaps she sees firsthand—whether creating affordable food options or developing educational resources for underserved students.
At Aspire Golden State Preparatory Academy, Estela wasn’t content with limited course offerings. She carved her own path through community college classes and educational programs outside school hours. She maintains a stellar 3.94 unweighted GPA while pursuing a rigorous course load, including community college classes in microeconomics, drawing and composition, and pre-calculus. Her academic excellence has earned her a place on the Presidential Honor Roll and recognition as both a QuestBridge Prep Scholar and a QuestBridge National College Match Finalist.
Her former English teacher, Rebecca Delgado, describes Estela as someone who “made sure everyone knew she was in charge of her own fate and future.” When faced with the challenge of AP World History, Estela led study groups and advocated for additional support, helping her class achieve the highest passing rate for the AP World History test in five years. “Her ‘leave no man behind’ attitude,” writes Delgado, exemplifies Estela’s commitment to lifting others as she rises.
Beyond academics and entrepreneurship, Estela extends her impact through community service. Recognizing the educational disparities facing Hispanic students, she offers free tutoring in math and English to younger students in her community and advocates for greater Hispanic representation in higher education through programs like AVID and the Raices Recruitment and Retention Center. She also actively participates in programs like Destination College Advising Corps/Early Academic Outreach Program, Helping Youth Pursue Higher Education Early, and ANova, creating networks with other Latino students around the Bay Area to discuss ideas that can benefit their communities.
Estela plans to attend Stanford University, the University of Southern California, or the University of California, Berkeley to study mechanical engineering with a minor in business administration or finance. For this remarkable young entrepreneur, business is more than just about profit margins—it’s about creating solutions that address community needs and open doors of opportunity in places where they’ve been too long closed.
SILVER - Taylor Luna
SILVER
Taylor Luna
College: Stanford University, University of Southern California, University of California, Los Angeles
Major: Political Science with a minor in English
High School: Mountain VIew High School
Hometown: Los Altos, CA
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican & Bolivian
For Taylor Luna, necessity became the mother of entrepreneurship. When $5,000 stood between her and her dreams, she found an unexpected answer—one with whiskers and purrs. Faced with the cost of her first summer program, rather than abandon her educational plans, she and her mom launched Happily Ever Kitty, a cat-sitting service that evolved from necessity into a thriving enterprise. Taylor started with logo design and website creation, spending hours perfecting Canva templates before developing business cards, posters, and social media accounts. Her marketing savvy extends to creating trend-focused videos that boost client awareness, while her day-to-day operations require balancing academics with business demands—sometimes waking at dawn to squeeze in a 30-minute cat visit before school.
Taylor’s entrepreneurial mindset extends beyond cat-sitting. Recognizing that many teenagers lack access to professional clothing, she founded a community closet, creating a vital resource for young people needing attire for interviews and formal events. When local high schools declined to host the project, she persevered, securing space at a local Teen Center. Through persistent outreach to PTSAs, city councils, and community members, she gathered donations, built clothing racks, and organized inventory. Opened in November 2023, the community closet has been featured in multiple newspaper articles and has helped countless teenagers access professional clothing they otherwise couldn’t afford.
The spirit that fuels Taylor’s business ventures stems from her experiences as a young Mexican and Bolivian woman navigating barriers in educational and political spaces. She balances early morning visits and after-school cat care with a rigorous academic schedule at Mountain View High School, where she maintains a 3.95 unweighted GPA while taking college-level courses in macroeconomics, calculus, comparative government, and more. Her academic excellence has earned her recognition on Foothill College’s Dean’s List and selection as a Coca-Cola Scholar Semi-Finalist.
Leadership comes naturally to Taylor. She currently serves as President of her local YMCA Youth and Government—having previously also served both a Senator and Committee Chair—where she advocates for civic engagement and policies that aid underserved groups. Her advocacy continues at the ACLU’s National Advocacy Institute, where she lobbies against legislation she believes could harm marginalized communities. As Vice Chair of Mountain View’s Youth Advisory Committee, she has organized initiatives like the Teen Wellness Retreat to foster community well-being. As a Policy Analyst at the Youth in Policy Institute, she examines how criminal justice policies affect marginalized groups and explores solutions.
“Taylor is an inspirational and transformational leader—she makes people-centered decisions and is committed to growth,” writes Veronica Martinez, her mentor at the National Hispanic Institute (NHI). This leadership shines through her outstanding performance at the NHI’s Great Debate, where she placed first in Atheneum Speaking. Taylor has also earned significant recognition in debate and public speaking, including selection as a National Speech and Debate Academic All-American and recipient of Superior Distinction honors. She qualified for the prestigious Tournament of Champions in Debate, a pinnacle achievement in high school forensics competition.
Community service is at the heart of Taylor’s life. Every Wednesday, she coaches middle school students in speech and debate, mentoring young competitors and building their confidence. Through the NHI, she has volunteered over 500 hours teaching communication and leadership skills to Hispanic youth across the globe. Her dedication to service earned her a Congressional Certificate of Commendation and the Gold Presidential Service Award.
Taylor balances these responsibilities with an impressive list of extracurriculars—from interning for Senator Josh Becker’s District Office and a congressional campaign to playing varsity girls’ flag football. She has also worked as a recreation aide for the City of Mountain View, a bistro cashier at Silicon Shores Corporation, and a notetaker at Foothill College.
Poised to make an impact wherever life takes her, Taylor will no doubt bring her entrepreneurial and service mindset to Stanford University, the University of Southern California, or the University of California, Los Angeles, where she plans to pursue political science with an English minor.
Taylor Luna
College: Stanford University, University of Southern California, University of California, Los Angeles
Major: Political Science with a minor in English
High School: Mountain VIew High School
Hometown: Los Altos, CA
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican & Bolivian
For Taylor Luna, necessity became the mother of entrepreneurship. When $5,000 stood between her and her dreams, she found an unexpected answer—one with whiskers and purrs. Faced with the cost of her first summer program, rather than abandon her educational plans, she and her mom launched Happily Ever Kitty, a cat-sitting service that evolved from necessity into a thriving enterprise. Taylor started with logo design and website creation, spending hours perfecting Canva templates before developing business cards, posters, and social media accounts. Her marketing savvy extends to creating trend-focused videos that boost client awareness, while her day-to-day operations require balancing academics with business demands—sometimes waking at dawn to squeeze in a 30-minute cat visit before school.
Taylor’s entrepreneurial mindset extends beyond cat-sitting. Recognizing that many teenagers lack access to professional clothing, she founded a community closet, creating a vital resource for young people needing attire for interviews and formal events. When local high schools declined to host the project, she persevered, securing space at a local Teen Center. Through persistent outreach to PTSAs, city councils, and community members, she gathered donations, built clothing racks, and organized inventory. Opened in November 2023, the community closet has been featured in multiple newspaper articles and has helped countless teenagers access professional clothing they otherwise couldn’t afford.
The spirit that fuels Taylor’s business ventures stems from her experiences as a young Mexican and Bolivian woman navigating barriers in educational and political spaces. She balances early morning visits and after-school cat care with a rigorous academic schedule at Mountain View High School, where she maintains a 3.95 unweighted GPA while taking college-level courses in macroeconomics, calculus, comparative government, and more. Her academic excellence has earned her recognition on Foothill College’s Dean’s List and selection as a Coca-Cola Scholar Semi-Finalist.
Leadership comes naturally to Taylor. She currently serves as President of her local YMCA Youth and Government—having previously also served both a Senator and Committee Chair—where she advocates for civic engagement and policies that aid underserved groups. Her advocacy continues at the ACLU’s National Advocacy Institute, where she lobbies against legislation she believes could harm marginalized communities. As Vice Chair of Mountain View’s Youth Advisory Committee, she has organized initiatives like the Teen Wellness Retreat to foster community well-being. As a Policy Analyst at the Youth in Policy Institute, she examines how criminal justice policies affect marginalized groups and explores solutions.
“Taylor is an inspirational and transformational leader—she makes people-centered decisions and is committed to growth,” writes Veronica Martinez, her mentor at the National Hispanic Institute (NHI). This leadership shines through her outstanding performance at the NHI’s Great Debate, where she placed first in Atheneum Speaking. Taylor has also earned significant recognition in debate and public speaking, including selection as a National Speech and Debate Academic All-American and recipient of Superior Distinction honors. She qualified for the prestigious Tournament of Champions in Debate, a pinnacle achievement in high school forensics competition.
Community service is at the heart of Taylor’s life. Every Wednesday, she coaches middle school students in speech and debate, mentoring young competitors and building their confidence. Through the NHI, she has volunteered over 500 hours teaching communication and leadership skills to Hispanic youth across the globe. Her dedication to service earned her a Congressional Certificate of Commendation and the Gold Presidential Service Award.
Taylor balances these responsibilities with an impressive list of extracurriculars—from interning for Senator Josh Becker’s District Office and a congressional campaign to playing varsity girls’ flag football. She has also worked as a recreation aide for the City of Mountain View, a bistro cashier at Silicon Shores Corporation, and a notetaker at Foothill College.
Poised to make an impact wherever life takes her, Taylor will no doubt bring her entrepreneurial and service mindset to Stanford University, the University of Southern California, or the University of California, Los Angeles, where she plans to pursue political science with an English minor.
BRONZE - Christina Chavez
BRONZE
Christina Chavez
College: Stanford University, University of Southern California, University of Hawaii at Manoa
Major: Economics
High School: Granada Hills Charter High School
Hometown: Northridge, CA
Hispanic Heritage: Ecuadorian
“Watching my grandfather, who immigrated to the U.S. and worked tirelessly to build a better life for our family, inspired me,” shares Christina Chavez, whose entrepreneurial spirit ignited through family legacy. That inspiration turned into action as Christina built an impressive business portfolio before even finishing high school. Her student-based Coffee Cart enterprise at Granada Hills Charter High School generates $500-$1000 weekly while providing special education students with invaluable work experience. As co-founder of Relentless Familia LLC, a Christian media company focused on empowerment, Christina demonstrates the same determination that defined her grandfather’s journey—combining business savvy with a commitment to creating opportunities for others.
As Chapter President of one of California’s largest DECA chapters at Granada Hills Charter High School, Christina leads over 450 aspiring business students with vision and purpose. “Leading this DECA chapter isn’t just about fostering a business culture; it’s about building a legacy that motivates future students to take bold steps toward their professional dreams,” Christina explains. Her initiative created a comprehensive set of competition team notes spanning 21 business units and more than 1,000 pages—essentially writing the playbook for DECA success. Those notes? They’re now the go-to resource for competitors throughout her chapter.
Christina’s competitive business acumen earned her an impressive collection of accolades. Last year, she received the DECA International Award of Excellence in Elevate, recognition that celebrates exceptional leadership, responsibility, and financial literacy within the organization. Her competitive talents also shone at the DECA District Competition last year where she claimed first place in Sports and Entertainment Marketing Role Play and second place in the Marketing Exam. On 2023, Christina advanced to become a DECA State Sports/Entertainment Role Play Finalist, placing among California’s top 10 competitors in the category.
While maintaining a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA, Christina balances a challenging academic schedule that includes several advanced and AP classes. Her academic excellence earned her recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction, as well as honors through both the National Hispanic Recognition Program and National Indigenous Recognition Program. Beyond the classroom, Christina serves as Captain of her club volleyball team, Secretary of her school’s Women in Business Club, partners with local universities to host financial literacy workshops, and founded the Heal the Bay Club at her school.
Dedicated to giving back, Christina serves as an intern with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s ALSAC program, she collaborates with business professionals and fellow members nationwide to raise funds supporting children’s healthcare. Her team successfully raised over $50,000 for St. Jude’s mission of ensuring no family pays for treatment, travel, housing, or food. Christina also participated in City Council President Krekorian’s Youth Leadership Academy, gaining insight into civic engagement and sustainable development legislation.
She is equally committed to environmental advocacy. Christina has led over 100 volunteers through a series of beach clean-ups with Heal the Bay, collectively removing more than 10,000 pieces of trash from local shores. Her international conservation experience includes work with sea turtle preservation in Kefalonia, Greece, where she helped monitor adult sea turtles, safeguard nests, and ensure hatchlings reached the ocean safely.
Stanford University, the University of Southern California, or the University of Hawaii at Manoa will welcome Christina as she pursues her economics degree. With her combination of business savvy, environmental consciousness, and commitment to creating opportunity for others, Christina stands ready to write her next entrepreneurial chapter—one where profit and purpose share equal billing.
Christina Chavez
College: Stanford University, University of Southern California, University of Hawaii at Manoa
Major: Economics
High School: Granada Hills Charter High School
Hometown: Northridge, CA
Hispanic Heritage: Ecuadorian
“Watching my grandfather, who immigrated to the U.S. and worked tirelessly to build a better life for our family, inspired me,” shares Christina Chavez, whose entrepreneurial spirit ignited through family legacy. That inspiration turned into action as Christina built an impressive business portfolio before even finishing high school. Her student-based Coffee Cart enterprise at Granada Hills Charter High School generates $500-$1000 weekly while providing special education students with invaluable work experience. As co-founder of Relentless Familia LLC, a Christian media company focused on empowerment, Christina demonstrates the same determination that defined her grandfather’s journey—combining business savvy with a commitment to creating opportunities for others.
As Chapter President of one of California’s largest DECA chapters at Granada Hills Charter High School, Christina leads over 450 aspiring business students with vision and purpose. “Leading this DECA chapter isn’t just about fostering a business culture; it’s about building a legacy that motivates future students to take bold steps toward their professional dreams,” Christina explains. Her initiative created a comprehensive set of competition team notes spanning 21 business units and more than 1,000 pages—essentially writing the playbook for DECA success. Those notes? They’re now the go-to resource for competitors throughout her chapter.
Christina’s competitive business acumen earned her an impressive collection of accolades. Last year, she received the DECA International Award of Excellence in Elevate, recognition that celebrates exceptional leadership, responsibility, and financial literacy within the organization. Her competitive talents also shone at the DECA District Competition last year where she claimed first place in Sports and Entertainment Marketing Role Play and second place in the Marketing Exam. On 2023, Christina advanced to become a DECA State Sports/Entertainment Role Play Finalist, placing among California’s top 10 competitors in the category.
While maintaining a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA, Christina balances a challenging academic schedule that includes several advanced and AP classes. Her academic excellence earned her recognition as an AP Scholar with Distinction, as well as honors through both the National Hispanic Recognition Program and National Indigenous Recognition Program. Beyond the classroom, Christina serves as Captain of her club volleyball team, Secretary of her school’s Women in Business Club, partners with local universities to host financial literacy workshops, and founded the Heal the Bay Club at her school.
Dedicated to giving back, Christina serves as an intern with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s ALSAC program, she collaborates with business professionals and fellow members nationwide to raise funds supporting children’s healthcare. Her team successfully raised over $50,000 for St. Jude’s mission of ensuring no family pays for treatment, travel, housing, or food. Christina also participated in City Council President Krekorian’s Youth Leadership Academy, gaining insight into civic engagement and sustainable development legislation.
She is equally committed to environmental advocacy. Christina has led over 100 volunteers through a series of beach clean-ups with Heal the Bay, collectively removing more than 10,000 pieces of trash from local shores. Her international conservation experience includes work with sea turtle preservation in Kefalonia, Greece, where she helped monitor adult sea turtles, safeguard nests, and ensure hatchlings reached the ocean safely.
Stanford University, the University of Southern California, or the University of Hawaii at Manoa will welcome Christina as she pursues her economics degree. With her combination of business savvy, environmental consciousness, and commitment to creating opportunity for others, Christina stands ready to write her next entrepreneurial chapter—one where profit and purpose share equal billing.
Red Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Angie Tirado
GOLD
Angie Tirado
College: University of California, Los Angeles; University of California, Berkeley; New York University
Major: Computer Science Engineering with a minor in Finance
High School: Westhampton Beach High School
Hometown: East Quogue, NY
Hispanic Heritage: Ecuadorian
Trading homemade bracelets with classmates—Angie Tirado’s first venture into the business world didn’t need a formal business plan. This early instinct for exchange and value creation has now evolved into Callio Marketing, her social media and digital marketing company serving small businesses throughout East Quogue, New York. “I noticed that many small businesses in my community really lacked an online presence,” Angie explains. “These business owners didn’t grow up having social media, and they don’t have the time to focus on their online presence.” Armed with coding skills in JavaScript and Python, Angie builds websites that help local businesses increase their clientele and revenue—a digital lifeline for entrepreneurs who might otherwise remain invisible in today’s online marketplace.
Her company’s development through the Southampton Youth Bureau’s Teen Entrepreneurs program included filing an official DBA (Doing Business As)—a milestone that marked her transition from student to business owner. At Westhampton Beach High School, Angie further sharpened her entrepreneurial talents through Virtual Enterprise, where she currently works on the marketing team for PuraVie, a student-created business that sells dissolvable tablets for all-purpose cleaners—a move to reduce plastic waste from conventional cleaning bottles. These hands-on experiences, coupled with formal education through Suffolk County Community College’s Entrepreneurship class, have equipped Angie with practical knowledge about launching both for-profit businesses and non-profit organizations.
Being bilingual in Spanish and English functions as Angie’s secret weapon in the business arena. “Many might think that being a Latina in the business world might be a disadvantage,” she notes, “but in my experience, I have had many advantageous opportunities because of my Hispanic background.” These linguistic skills enable her to connect with clients across cultures, access specialized networking events, and form partnerships that might otherwise be inaccessible.
Recognizing that successful entrepreneurs seek guidance, Angie works with a personal mentor from SCORE—a nonprofit that offers business mentoring to small business owners—who advises her on business strategy and operational questions, proving she understands that asking for help represents strength, not weakness.
Angie’s entrepreneurial mindset extends to addressing educational gaps in Latino communities. After noticing a lack of educational resources for underprivileged children during summer months, she founded STEM Spark: Youth Engineers Initiative, a free program that introduces K-4 students to engineering concepts through engaging, hands-on activities. The program welcomes Spanish-speaking students, eliminating language barriers to quality education.
For another one of her initiatives, Angie partnered with Mosaico NY for “Mosaico Mochilas” an event where she distributed backpacks with school supplies to over 100 children in the East End, addressing concrete needs of families with limited resources. These initiatives reflect her conviction that “education is the key in allowing students to find their passion and follow it.”
“Throughout my life, I have always wanted to give back to the community and make a difference in the world, leaving a long-lasting impact, even if it’s just to one person,” Angie shares. She puts this philosophy into practice by offering her digital marketing expertise to non-profit organizations at no cost. We Connect The Dots, Southampton Animal Shelter, Mosaico NY, and Southampton Rotary NY have all benefited from her digital makeovers, which include social media management and website development, with the aim of amplifying their messages and expanding their reach.
Technology shapes every aspect of Angie’s academic and extracurricular pursuits. She has completed AP Computer Science A and continues to challenge herself with advanced courses like AP Biology, AP Seminar, AP Calculus BC, AP Macroeconomics, and AP Pre-Calculus. Outside the classroom, she participates in Robotics club as a member of the engineering team, Girls Who Code, and Teach Children STEM Organization. Her technical training includes graduation from BOCES Bixhorn Technical Center with a certificate in Computer Science and Application Development—an achievement that required significant dedication, as she had to split her time between two schools.
Angie’s athletic abilities match her intellectual strengths. She competes in Varsity Track & Field and JV Tennis, bringing the same determination to sports that she applies to entrepreneurship. Her academic excellence has earned her membership in both the National Honor Society and Mathematics Honor Society, recognition that acknowledges her commitment to scholarly pursuit alongside her business ventures.
When Angie heads to the University of California, Los Angeles; the University of California, Berkeley; or New York University to study computer science engineering with a minor in finance, she’ll carry with her the blueprint for success she’s already drafted: identify gaps in the market, create solutions that serve community needs, and build businesses that break barriers.
Angie Tirado
College: University of California, Los Angeles; University of California, Berkeley; New York University
Major: Computer Science Engineering with a minor in Finance
High School: Westhampton Beach High School
Hometown: East Quogue, NY
Hispanic Heritage: Ecuadorian
Trading homemade bracelets with classmates—Angie Tirado’s first venture into the business world didn’t need a formal business plan. This early instinct for exchange and value creation has now evolved into Callio Marketing, her social media and digital marketing company serving small businesses throughout East Quogue, New York. “I noticed that many small businesses in my community really lacked an online presence,” Angie explains. “These business owners didn’t grow up having social media, and they don’t have the time to focus on their online presence.” Armed with coding skills in JavaScript and Python, Angie builds websites that help local businesses increase their clientele and revenue—a digital lifeline for entrepreneurs who might otherwise remain invisible in today’s online marketplace.
Her company’s development through the Southampton Youth Bureau’s Teen Entrepreneurs program included filing an official DBA (Doing Business As)—a milestone that marked her transition from student to business owner. At Westhampton Beach High School, Angie further sharpened her entrepreneurial talents through Virtual Enterprise, where she currently works on the marketing team for PuraVie, a student-created business that sells dissolvable tablets for all-purpose cleaners—a move to reduce plastic waste from conventional cleaning bottles. These hands-on experiences, coupled with formal education through Suffolk County Community College’s Entrepreneurship class, have equipped Angie with practical knowledge about launching both for-profit businesses and non-profit organizations.
Being bilingual in Spanish and English functions as Angie’s secret weapon in the business arena. “Many might think that being a Latina in the business world might be a disadvantage,” she notes, “but in my experience, I have had many advantageous opportunities because of my Hispanic background.” These linguistic skills enable her to connect with clients across cultures, access specialized networking events, and form partnerships that might otherwise be inaccessible.
Recognizing that successful entrepreneurs seek guidance, Angie works with a personal mentor from SCORE—a nonprofit that offers business mentoring to small business owners—who advises her on business strategy and operational questions, proving she understands that asking for help represents strength, not weakness.
Angie’s entrepreneurial mindset extends to addressing educational gaps in Latino communities. After noticing a lack of educational resources for underprivileged children during summer months, she founded STEM Spark: Youth Engineers Initiative, a free program that introduces K-4 students to engineering concepts through engaging, hands-on activities. The program welcomes Spanish-speaking students, eliminating language barriers to quality education.
For another one of her initiatives, Angie partnered with Mosaico NY for “Mosaico Mochilas” an event where she distributed backpacks with school supplies to over 100 children in the East End, addressing concrete needs of families with limited resources. These initiatives reflect her conviction that “education is the key in allowing students to find their passion and follow it.”
“Throughout my life, I have always wanted to give back to the community and make a difference in the world, leaving a long-lasting impact, even if it’s just to one person,” Angie shares. She puts this philosophy into practice by offering her digital marketing expertise to non-profit organizations at no cost. We Connect The Dots, Southampton Animal Shelter, Mosaico NY, and Southampton Rotary NY have all benefited from her digital makeovers, which include social media management and website development, with the aim of amplifying their messages and expanding their reach.
Technology shapes every aspect of Angie’s academic and extracurricular pursuits. She has completed AP Computer Science A and continues to challenge herself with advanced courses like AP Biology, AP Seminar, AP Calculus BC, AP Macroeconomics, and AP Pre-Calculus. Outside the classroom, she participates in Robotics club as a member of the engineering team, Girls Who Code, and Teach Children STEM Organization. Her technical training includes graduation from BOCES Bixhorn Technical Center with a certificate in Computer Science and Application Development—an achievement that required significant dedication, as she had to split her time between two schools.
Angie’s athletic abilities match her intellectual strengths. She competes in Varsity Track & Field and JV Tennis, bringing the same determination to sports that she applies to entrepreneurship. Her academic excellence has earned her membership in both the National Honor Society and Mathematics Honor Society, recognition that acknowledges her commitment to scholarly pursuit alongside her business ventures.
When Angie heads to the University of California, Los Angeles; the University of California, Berkeley; or New York University to study computer science engineering with a minor in finance, she’ll carry with her the blueprint for success she’s already drafted: identify gaps in the market, create solutions that serve community needs, and build businesses that break barriers.
SILVER - Brenda Betances
SILVER
Brenda Betances
College: Babson College, Bentley University, Carnegie Mellon University
Major: Finance with a minor in Management
High School: Kipp Academy Lynn Colligate
Hometown: Lynn, MA
Hispanic Heritage: Dominican
As a young Afro-Latina woman, Brenda Betances often heard that her hair looked more presentable when styled while growing up. Although her mother worked for years at a salon, she was eager to put the round brush down. So, at just 10 years old, she learned how to do her hair herself. By the time she got older, she was known for walking into school with a new natural style every week, garnering plenty of compliments. Eventually, the high-achieving student, who attends Kipp Academy Lynn Collegiate in Massachusetts, knew that her gift was greater than just a hobby, with friends requesting braiding and other services. At first, she didn’t charge, but the demand became so great that she decided to make it an official business, which today, she recognizes as her proudest accomplishment in entrepreneurship.
“I took it upon myself to not only provide an affordable service but one that left my clients feeling confident in their natural styles. I have learned the importance of helping people in a way that brings me joy, and I hope I can continue to do so in the future,” she said.
Betances, who grew up in a Dominican household, didn’t have to look far for inspiration. As the youngest sibling, she always looked up to her eldest sisters and mother, who took pride in flawless blowouts. Observing her sisters spending hours on their beautiful, bouncy hair and eventually taking after their mother’s passion for cosmetology and styling the hair of others, she would discover different techniques. Knowing she could pass on similar happiness, like her family before her, made her even more eager to start a business. So, she did. Besides, being her own boss was something she always knew she wanted in her future career path, and this endeavor was just the start.
Reflecting on how her Hispanic heritage impacted her approach to business and entrepreneurship, Betances appreciates her Dominican parents so much. Coming to the United States with absolutely nothing, they embodied determination to build a life for their children. Watching her role models reach their goals has inspired her to achieve that same potential and do even better. As an Afro-Latina woman who knows the struggle of gaining financial stability, she wants to promote tools to support those in her community facing hardship. Plus, knowing that she is stepping into a field where people like her lack representation gives her a sense of passion.
As for an issue impacting the Hispanic/Latinx community, Betances believes it is the lack of job opportunities, which leads to a wealth gap within the United States. Recognizing that immigrants, especially undocumented, do not always have access to high-level education and high-paying jobs, leaving them living paycheck to paycheck, she wants to address this by helping others build wealth. She adds that in a world that revolves around money, people need to learn the most responsible and effective ways to use their funds.
Moving forward, Brenda Betances plans to be that support system when families within her community are struggling. Upon graduation, she plans to attend Babson College, Bentley University, or Carnegie Mellon University to major in finance with a minor in management. By going in this direction, she hopes to inspire change in the Latinx community and do its part in promoting financial stability.
Brenda Betances
College: Babson College, Bentley University, Carnegie Mellon University
Major: Finance with a minor in Management
High School: Kipp Academy Lynn Colligate
Hometown: Lynn, MA
Hispanic Heritage: Dominican
As a young Afro-Latina woman, Brenda Betances often heard that her hair looked more presentable when styled while growing up. Although her mother worked for years at a salon, she was eager to put the round brush down. So, at just 10 years old, she learned how to do her hair herself. By the time she got older, she was known for walking into school with a new natural style every week, garnering plenty of compliments. Eventually, the high-achieving student, who attends Kipp Academy Lynn Collegiate in Massachusetts, knew that her gift was greater than just a hobby, with friends requesting braiding and other services. At first, she didn’t charge, but the demand became so great that she decided to make it an official business, which today, she recognizes as her proudest accomplishment in entrepreneurship.
“I took it upon myself to not only provide an affordable service but one that left my clients feeling confident in their natural styles. I have learned the importance of helping people in a way that brings me joy, and I hope I can continue to do so in the future,” she said.
Betances, who grew up in a Dominican household, didn’t have to look far for inspiration. As the youngest sibling, she always looked up to her eldest sisters and mother, who took pride in flawless blowouts. Observing her sisters spending hours on their beautiful, bouncy hair and eventually taking after their mother’s passion for cosmetology and styling the hair of others, she would discover different techniques. Knowing she could pass on similar happiness, like her family before her, made her even more eager to start a business. So, she did. Besides, being her own boss was something she always knew she wanted in her future career path, and this endeavor was just the start.
Reflecting on how her Hispanic heritage impacted her approach to business and entrepreneurship, Betances appreciates her Dominican parents so much. Coming to the United States with absolutely nothing, they embodied determination to build a life for their children. Watching her role models reach their goals has inspired her to achieve that same potential and do even better. As an Afro-Latina woman who knows the struggle of gaining financial stability, she wants to promote tools to support those in her community facing hardship. Plus, knowing that she is stepping into a field where people like her lack representation gives her a sense of passion.
As for an issue impacting the Hispanic/Latinx community, Betances believes it is the lack of job opportunities, which leads to a wealth gap within the United States. Recognizing that immigrants, especially undocumented, do not always have access to high-level education and high-paying jobs, leaving them living paycheck to paycheck, she wants to address this by helping others build wealth. She adds that in a world that revolves around money, people need to learn the most responsible and effective ways to use their funds.
Moving forward, Brenda Betances plans to be that support system when families within her community are struggling. Upon graduation, she plans to attend Babson College, Bentley University, or Carnegie Mellon University to major in finance with a minor in management. By going in this direction, she hopes to inspire change in the Latinx community and do its part in promoting financial stability.
BRONZE - Aliyah Delgado
BRONZE
Aliyah Delgado
College: Babson College, Temple University, Syracuse University
Major: Business Analytics with a minor in Marketing
High School: Academy for Careers in Television and Film
Hometown: Middletown, NY
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican & Peruvian
Fresh into high school at fourteen, Aliyah Delgado was on a mission to start a business and make extra money on the side. So, the young entrepreneur taught herself everything she needed to know about braiding and styling hair. With time on her side and a best friend willing to let her practice on her, she eventually got to the point where she could start offering and charging for her service. Quickly, she learned the dynamic nature of the field, with customers who come and go with no stable clientele. However, she did not let that deter her and eventually found a loyal following—a testament to her work.
One particular moment stands out for her. “One of my clients asked me to do her hair right before she left for college. I felt so much admiration and pride for my service,” she said. “Her choosing to book with me again showed me that she liked my work and was willing to continue to get her hair done from me, which gave me an extreme amount of confidence in my level of expertise.”
That memorable encounter showed Delgado the potential of her business and allowed her to continue offering her service with guaranteed satisfaction. Regarding the defining factor in pursuing a path in business, the honor student at the Academy for Careers in Television and Film revealed that art played a pivotal part—from the time she was a toddler painting simple landscapes with brushes and a palette of colors to when she got older and explored her passion for different areas of art before discovering an interest in hair and makeup in her teenage years.
Fortunately, she found that there are creative careers that can lead to a sustainable life, including professions in makeup, hair, and the film industry. A production program in her junior year allowed her to get hands-on experience in the hair and makeup field within filmmaking. As the head girl of her crew, she was responsible for showing the personalities of each character through their looks. Ultimately, she fell in love with the process, which drove her to become more serious about her hair business and continue this passion through an exciting career path. Working with a mentor, she also secured other opportunities, including working alongside others during the Despicable Me 4 premiere, where she was responsible for setting up the display, face-painting minions for young children before the screening, and air-brushing minions for the kids post-screening.
Her Hispanic heritage also had a role in influencing her professional pursuits. Growing up in New York City, in the heart of Spanish Harlem, Delgado, of Puerto Rican and Peruvian descent, was surrounded by many different types of hairstyles in all lengths and colors. Through networking with her Latinx community, she has gained clients from different Hispanic backgrounds, and her Dominican, Caribbean, and Afro-Latinx peers gave her the creative freedom to perfect her craft on their hair, whether cornrows, knotless braids, or faux locs.
Delgado cares immensely about the Latinx community, and a challenge that she sees is immigrants encountering barriers to well-paying jobs, ultimately leaving their families in a financial bind. To improve job security within the Latinx community, she proposes directing funding toward expanding access to English language classes and training programs in high-demand industries. Giving people an opportunity to become more proficient in more than one language will allow them access to job opportunities and greater protection—ultimately reducing poverty and offering them the chance to have a sustainable life.
A role model for other students, Aliyah Delgado has a bright future in front of her. The next phase of her promising path is to attend Babson College, Temple University, or Syracuse University to major in business analytics with a minor in marketing.
Aliyah Delgado
College: Babson College, Temple University, Syracuse University
Major: Business Analytics with a minor in Marketing
High School: Academy for Careers in Television and Film
Hometown: Middletown, NY
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican & Peruvian
Fresh into high school at fourteen, Aliyah Delgado was on a mission to start a business and make extra money on the side. So, the young entrepreneur taught herself everything she needed to know about braiding and styling hair. With time on her side and a best friend willing to let her practice on her, she eventually got to the point where she could start offering and charging for her service. Quickly, she learned the dynamic nature of the field, with customers who come and go with no stable clientele. However, she did not let that deter her and eventually found a loyal following—a testament to her work.
One particular moment stands out for her. “One of my clients asked me to do her hair right before she left for college. I felt so much admiration and pride for my service,” she said. “Her choosing to book with me again showed me that she liked my work and was willing to continue to get her hair done from me, which gave me an extreme amount of confidence in my level of expertise.”
That memorable encounter showed Delgado the potential of her business and allowed her to continue offering her service with guaranteed satisfaction. Regarding the defining factor in pursuing a path in business, the honor student at the Academy for Careers in Television and Film revealed that art played a pivotal part—from the time she was a toddler painting simple landscapes with brushes and a palette of colors to when she got older and explored her passion for different areas of art before discovering an interest in hair and makeup in her teenage years.
Fortunately, she found that there are creative careers that can lead to a sustainable life, including professions in makeup, hair, and the film industry. A production program in her junior year allowed her to get hands-on experience in the hair and makeup field within filmmaking. As the head girl of her crew, she was responsible for showing the personalities of each character through their looks. Ultimately, she fell in love with the process, which drove her to become more serious about her hair business and continue this passion through an exciting career path. Working with a mentor, she also secured other opportunities, including working alongside others during the Despicable Me 4 premiere, where she was responsible for setting up the display, face-painting minions for young children before the screening, and air-brushing minions for the kids post-screening.
Her Hispanic heritage also had a role in influencing her professional pursuits. Growing up in New York City, in the heart of Spanish Harlem, Delgado, of Puerto Rican and Peruvian descent, was surrounded by many different types of hairstyles in all lengths and colors. Through networking with her Latinx community, she has gained clients from different Hispanic backgrounds, and her Dominican, Caribbean, and Afro-Latinx peers gave her the creative freedom to perfect her craft on their hair, whether cornrows, knotless braids, or faux locs.
Delgado cares immensely about the Latinx community, and a challenge that she sees is immigrants encountering barriers to well-paying jobs, ultimately leaving their families in a financial bind. To improve job security within the Latinx community, she proposes directing funding toward expanding access to English language classes and training programs in high-demand industries. Giving people an opportunity to become more proficient in more than one language will allow them access to job opportunities and greater protection—ultimately reducing poverty and offering them the chance to have a sustainable life.
A role model for other students, Aliyah Delgado has a bright future in front of her. The next phase of her promising path is to attend Babson College, Temple University, or Syracuse University to major in business analytics with a minor in marketing.
Tan Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Joel A. Esparra Díaz
GOLD
Joel A. Esparra Díaz
College: Cornell University, Purdue University, Iowa State University
Major: Genetic Engineering with a minor in Biotechnology
High School: Pablo D. Burgos Marrero
Hometown: Corosal, PR
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
During the pandemic food crisis in Puerto Rico, Joel Alejandro Esparra Díaz didn’t just plant a vegetable garden for his family—he cultivated a full-fledged business from Puerto Rican soil. What started as a modest project sprouted into an enterprise supplying plants to farmers across the island, strengthening Puerto Rico’s food security one seedling at a time. This entrepreneurial journey earned him the prestigious Future Farmers of America (FFA) State Star Farmer in Agribusiness Award at just 15 years old—the highest honor attainable attainable at the organization for a public sector member showing leadership vision and inventiveness in agribusiness. “[Receiving this award] at the age of 15 was proof that my passion and commitment were already capable of generating real prosperity event that young age,” Joel reflects.
His agricultural venture focuses on environmentally sound practices that are also profitable, tackling real-world problems for Puerto Rican farmers. Joel’s solutions are tailored for the island and emphasize sustainability while building food security and independence. This combination of practical work and community impact caught the attention of Supermercados Selectos, which awarded him a grant to further his agricultural mission and featured him in their 2023 calendar, marking a significant moment in his business development.
As Puerto Rico FFA State Secretary, Joel serves over 3,000 members, coordinating events, championing agricultural education, and promoting sustainable farming practices across the island. This leadership position has sharpened his communication, problem-solving, and management abilities—essential tools in his entrepreneurial toolkit. His FFA advisor and mentor, Kenialys Vélez García, praises his “exceptional growth as a leader, innovator, and entrepreneur,” noting his “innovative approach to agriculture” and “passion for sustainability and problem-solving.”
Joel’s Puerto Rican heritage permeates his entrepreneurial approach. “In a region where resources can often be limited, creativity and resourcefulness become essential in business endeavors,” he explains. This wisdom guides his agricultural focus, where he develops sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. As a Boricua entrepreneur, Joel creates solutions specifically designed for Puerto Rico’s distinct climate and soil conditions, understanding the island’s unique agricultural challenges.
Growing up in a culture that values family and community has instilled in him a vision of entrepreneurship that extends beyond profit margins to meaningful social impact. His upbringing taught him to view obstacles as opportunities to innovate. “I have discovered that resilience, community and adaptability are vital for overcoming obstacles,” he shares. The Puerto Rican emphasis on collective advancement shapes Joel’s understanding that genuine entrepreneurial leadership extends beyond individual achievement. “It’s about elevating those around you,” he explains.
This commitment to lifting others extends to his volunteer work. Joel has organized events for local food banks, ensuring fresh produce reaches those in need, and led workshops in local schools teaching children how to start vegetable gardens as a solution to food insecurity. Following a local disaster, Joel helped organize a food drive, collecting and distributing donations to families without access to fresh food. These experiences have solidified his belief that giving back is about “building connections, empowering others and creating opportunities for growth.”
School leadership comes naturally to Joel, who serves as Senior Class President and Plant Systems Workshop President at Pablo D. Burgos Marrero. His talents extend to athletics as well, where he excels in both club and varsity volleyball. Academically, Joel maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA while taking advanced coursework in subjects including Spanish, English, and math.
Joel balances his many responsibilities with remarkable grace. His mentor, Vélez García, describes him as “not only driven but also compassionate,” highlighting his “ability to balance his academic and extracurricular commitments, all while serving his community and leading initiatives for positive change.” This approach speaks to Joel’s character and his vision for how business can serve greater societal needs.
Looking toward the future, Joel plans to attend Cornell University, Purdue University, or Iowa State University to study genetic engineering with a minor in biotechnology. His goal is to merge his business acumen with agricultural innovation, continuing his mission to enhance food security and sustainability in Puerto Rico and beyond.
Joel A. Esparra Díaz
College: Cornell University, Purdue University, Iowa State University
Major: Genetic Engineering with a minor in Biotechnology
High School: Pablo D. Burgos Marrero
Hometown: Corosal, PR
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
During the pandemic food crisis in Puerto Rico, Joel Alejandro Esparra Díaz didn’t just plant a vegetable garden for his family—he cultivated a full-fledged business from Puerto Rican soil. What started as a modest project sprouted into an enterprise supplying plants to farmers across the island, strengthening Puerto Rico’s food security one seedling at a time. This entrepreneurial journey earned him the prestigious Future Farmers of America (FFA) State Star Farmer in Agribusiness Award at just 15 years old—the highest honor attainable attainable at the organization for a public sector member showing leadership vision and inventiveness in agribusiness. “[Receiving this award] at the age of 15 was proof that my passion and commitment were already capable of generating real prosperity event that young age,” Joel reflects.
His agricultural venture focuses on environmentally sound practices that are also profitable, tackling real-world problems for Puerto Rican farmers. Joel’s solutions are tailored for the island and emphasize sustainability while building food security and independence. This combination of practical work and community impact caught the attention of Supermercados Selectos, which awarded him a grant to further his agricultural mission and featured him in their 2023 calendar, marking a significant moment in his business development.
As Puerto Rico FFA State Secretary, Joel serves over 3,000 members, coordinating events, championing agricultural education, and promoting sustainable farming practices across the island. This leadership position has sharpened his communication, problem-solving, and management abilities—essential tools in his entrepreneurial toolkit. His FFA advisor and mentor, Kenialys Vélez García, praises his “exceptional growth as a leader, innovator, and entrepreneur,” noting his “innovative approach to agriculture” and “passion for sustainability and problem-solving.”
Joel’s Puerto Rican heritage permeates his entrepreneurial approach. “In a region where resources can often be limited, creativity and resourcefulness become essential in business endeavors,” he explains. This wisdom guides his agricultural focus, where he develops sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. As a Boricua entrepreneur, Joel creates solutions specifically designed for Puerto Rico’s distinct climate and soil conditions, understanding the island’s unique agricultural challenges.
Growing up in a culture that values family and community has instilled in him a vision of entrepreneurship that extends beyond profit margins to meaningful social impact. His upbringing taught him to view obstacles as opportunities to innovate. “I have discovered that resilience, community and adaptability are vital for overcoming obstacles,” he shares. The Puerto Rican emphasis on collective advancement shapes Joel’s understanding that genuine entrepreneurial leadership extends beyond individual achievement. “It’s about elevating those around you,” he explains.
This commitment to lifting others extends to his volunteer work. Joel has organized events for local food banks, ensuring fresh produce reaches those in need, and led workshops in local schools teaching children how to start vegetable gardens as a solution to food insecurity. Following a local disaster, Joel helped organize a food drive, collecting and distributing donations to families without access to fresh food. These experiences have solidified his belief that giving back is about “building connections, empowering others and creating opportunities for growth.”
School leadership comes naturally to Joel, who serves as Senior Class President and Plant Systems Workshop President at Pablo D. Burgos Marrero. His talents extend to athletics as well, where he excels in both club and varsity volleyball. Academically, Joel maintains a perfect 4.0 unweighted GPA while taking advanced coursework in subjects including Spanish, English, and math.
Joel balances his many responsibilities with remarkable grace. His mentor, Vélez García, describes him as “not only driven but also compassionate,” highlighting his “ability to balance his academic and extracurricular commitments, all while serving his community and leading initiatives for positive change.” This approach speaks to Joel’s character and his vision for how business can serve greater societal needs.
Looking toward the future, Joel plans to attend Cornell University, Purdue University, or Iowa State University to study genetic engineering with a minor in biotechnology. His goal is to merge his business acumen with agricultural innovation, continuing his mission to enhance food security and sustainability in Puerto Rico and beyond.
SILVER - Christian Fonseca
SILVER
Christian Fonseca
College: Babson College, Bentley University, American University
Major: Finance with a minor in Computer Science
High School: Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola
Hometown: Guaynabo, PR
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
When financial challenges struck Christian Fonseca’s family, an evening of brainstorming in front of the television changed everything. His mother proposed an idea: making gelato popsicles. Living in Puerto Rico where refreshing treats are essential, the family spotted an untapped market for natural, flavorful frozen desserts. “[It was] something that was extremely underdeveloped here in the Island, where the rays of the sun hit you straight in the face and you have nothing but a drink to refresh yourself,” he explains. What started as a conversation evolved into a full-fledged family business and quickly became Christian’s introduction to entrepreneurship.
Christian jumped right in, collaborating with his parents in every aspect of their new venture. Working alongside his parents to develop recipes, create marketing strategies, and sell their frozen treats at events across the island, Christian discovered business principles that no classroom could replicate. “It clicked; this skill of an entrepreneurial mindset had been developing throughout the entire process,” he recalls.
Selling popsicles at local events exposed Christian to a network of small business owners who supported each other like family. “Wherever one went, the others followed with the same purpose of demonstrating their products and skills,” he observes. This community approach to entrepreneurship resonated with his Puerto Rican values of collaboration and mutual support. Each vendor contributed unique perspectives and ingredients, from business techniques to flavor enhancements like honey or lavender. Through these interactions, Christian recognized how the Latino entrepreneurial community thrives by strengthening each other’s weaknesses and persisting through challenges together.
The popsicle business taught Christian that perfection requires patience and iteration. “Behind every successful recipe is a journey of trial and error, and a relentless pursuit of getting it right,” he notes. This philosophy extends beyond gelato to his entire approach to life’s obstacles. Creating the perfect popsicle became a metaphor for personal growth—requiring attention to detail, willingness to experiment, and learning from mistakes. The business served as Christian’s proving ground for developing resilience, creativity, and adaptability—qualities that now distinguish him at Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola.
Dr. Nice D. Zayas Rodríguez, science teacher at Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, emphasizes his leadership qualities: “While some are destined to develop leadership skills, Christian seems to possess the intrinsic qualities of a born leader and he’s able to accomplish this without an air of arrogance or superiority towards his peers.” This natural leadership combines with what the teacher describes as exceptional kindness, creating a young entrepreneur who succeeds without sacrificing compassion.
Beyond academics and entrepreneurship, Christian maintains diverse interests. He competes on his school’s varsity soccer team, participates in its Podcast Club, tests his strategic thinking in its Chess Club, and leads as vice-president of its investment club.
Community service occupies a special place in Christian’s heart, motivated by his profound connection to and love for Puerto Rico. “From west to east, from north to south, for me, my island is beautiful. From the beautiful beaches to the people, everything is worth sacrificing [for],” he shares. This devotion to his homeland translates into meaningful service, particularly through his work with Fundación Golitos, where he teaches soccer to children with special needs. The experience brings Christian unexpected clarity and fulfillment: “When you serve as their guide, helping them through obstacles, your mind goes blank. With only one thought, reaching the goal. You get this sense of peace and patience like you have never experienced before, as if you are in the mountains in the evening, with a hot chocolate in your hand.” The simple joy on children’s faces after scoring a goal and their sincere gratitude—“Thank you for helping me”—fuels Christian’s ongoing dedication to giving back.
Drawing from his entrepreneurial background and commitment to Puerto Rico, Christian has identified consumerism as a critical issue affecting the Hispanic community on the island. He proposes targeting schools with financial education programs, believing that teaching children about money management from a young age will help combat unhealthy consumer behaviors that lead to debt and financial stress.
The entrepreneurial path he began with his family will continue as Christian moves toward higher education. At Babson College, Bentley University, or American University, he’ll pursue studies in finance with a minor in computer science, carrying forward the lessons learned from both business innovation and community connection.
Christian Fonseca
College: Babson College, Bentley University, American University
Major: Finance with a minor in Computer Science
High School: Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola
Hometown: Guaynabo, PR
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
When financial challenges struck Christian Fonseca’s family, an evening of brainstorming in front of the television changed everything. His mother proposed an idea: making gelato popsicles. Living in Puerto Rico where refreshing treats are essential, the family spotted an untapped market for natural, flavorful frozen desserts. “[It was] something that was extremely underdeveloped here in the Island, where the rays of the sun hit you straight in the face and you have nothing but a drink to refresh yourself,” he explains. What started as a conversation evolved into a full-fledged family business and quickly became Christian’s introduction to entrepreneurship.
Christian jumped right in, collaborating with his parents in every aspect of their new venture. Working alongside his parents to develop recipes, create marketing strategies, and sell their frozen treats at events across the island, Christian discovered business principles that no classroom could replicate. “It clicked; this skill of an entrepreneurial mindset had been developing throughout the entire process,” he recalls.
Selling popsicles at local events exposed Christian to a network of small business owners who supported each other like family. “Wherever one went, the others followed with the same purpose of demonstrating their products and skills,” he observes. This community approach to entrepreneurship resonated with his Puerto Rican values of collaboration and mutual support. Each vendor contributed unique perspectives and ingredients, from business techniques to flavor enhancements like honey or lavender. Through these interactions, Christian recognized how the Latino entrepreneurial community thrives by strengthening each other’s weaknesses and persisting through challenges together.
The popsicle business taught Christian that perfection requires patience and iteration. “Behind every successful recipe is a journey of trial and error, and a relentless pursuit of getting it right,” he notes. This philosophy extends beyond gelato to his entire approach to life’s obstacles. Creating the perfect popsicle became a metaphor for personal growth—requiring attention to detail, willingness to experiment, and learning from mistakes. The business served as Christian’s proving ground for developing resilience, creativity, and adaptability—qualities that now distinguish him at Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola.
Dr. Nice D. Zayas Rodríguez, science teacher at Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, emphasizes his leadership qualities: “While some are destined to develop leadership skills, Christian seems to possess the intrinsic qualities of a born leader and he’s able to accomplish this without an air of arrogance or superiority towards his peers.” This natural leadership combines with what the teacher describes as exceptional kindness, creating a young entrepreneur who succeeds without sacrificing compassion.
Beyond academics and entrepreneurship, Christian maintains diverse interests. He competes on his school’s varsity soccer team, participates in its Podcast Club, tests his strategic thinking in its Chess Club, and leads as vice-president of its investment club.
Community service occupies a special place in Christian’s heart, motivated by his profound connection to and love for Puerto Rico. “From west to east, from north to south, for me, my island is beautiful. From the beautiful beaches to the people, everything is worth sacrificing [for],” he shares. This devotion to his homeland translates into meaningful service, particularly through his work with Fundación Golitos, where he teaches soccer to children with special needs. The experience brings Christian unexpected clarity and fulfillment: “When you serve as their guide, helping them through obstacles, your mind goes blank. With only one thought, reaching the goal. You get this sense of peace and patience like you have never experienced before, as if you are in the mountains in the evening, with a hot chocolate in your hand.” The simple joy on children’s faces after scoring a goal and their sincere gratitude—“Thank you for helping me”—fuels Christian’s ongoing dedication to giving back.
Drawing from his entrepreneurial background and commitment to Puerto Rico, Christian has identified consumerism as a critical issue affecting the Hispanic community on the island. He proposes targeting schools with financial education programs, believing that teaching children about money management from a young age will help combat unhealthy consumer behaviors that lead to debt and financial stress.
The entrepreneurial path he began with his family will continue as Christian moves toward higher education. At Babson College, Bentley University, or American University, he’ll pursue studies in finance with a minor in computer science, carrying forward the lessons learned from both business innovation and community connection.
BRONZE - Manuel Rodríguez
BRONZE
Manuel Rodríguez
College: Bentley University, Loyola University Chicago, Marquette University
Major: Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship
High School: Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola
Hometown: San Juan, PR
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
Manuel Rodríguez’s entrepreneurial journey began with questions. As his grandfather steered Caribbean Franchise to success with multiple quick-service restaurants across Puerto Rico, Manuel paid attention. He observed operations, studied marketing strategies, and wondered what made businesses thrive. “The inner details of operating a number of well-known franchises within Puerto Rico allowed me a front-row seat into the business world and made me quite curious about how companies are really able to build successful brands and operate efficiently,” he explains. His curiosity would later lead him to an internship with the company, where theory met practice and observation turned into action.
Manuel’s internship at Caribbean Franchise evolved into a comprehensive business bootcamp as he rotated through the marketing, finance, and operations departments. During his time with the marketing team, he crafted a strategic social media campaign that emphasized the franchise’s local ties to Puerto Rico. The result? A significant increase in customer engagement. “It was the first time I saw how ideas are translated into action in the business context,” Manuel reflects. His contributions didn’t stop at marketing. During a meeting about food delivery costs, Manuel’s astute observation about high cost-to-sales ratios prompted staff to investigate further, ultimately leading to expense reductions that improved the company’s bottom line.
His entrepreneurial toolkit expanded through his involvement with Boy Scouts of America, where he currently holds the rank of Life Scout and is on track to earn the prestigious Eagle Scout rank. As Senior Patrol Leader, Manuel manages team dynamics and resource allocation—skills that translate directly to business leadership. His participation in the National Youth Leadership Training Program (NYLT) in 2023 and his selection for the Order of the Arrow that same year further attest to his leadership capabilities within the organization.
Manuel’s Eagle Scout Service Project exemplifies his ability to apply business principles to community-focused endeavors. He designed and is building a therapeutic and educational garden at Centro Corazón Azul, a center supporting adults with level 3 autism. The project required the same skills used in business ventures: project management, budgeting, and team coordination. What was once an area overrun with weeds is being transformed into a space where participants can develop gardening skills while practicing patience, cooperation, and creativity. Manuel directly involved the center’s participants and their families in the project, creating an inclusive environment that fosters community connection.
His Puerto Rican heritage shapes his approach to business and entrepreneurship in meaningful ways. “Growing up in Puerto Rico, I have learned since an early age how important it is to nurture substantial relationships and value the needs and perspectives of others around me,” Manuel explains. This community-centered philosophy influenced his work at Caribbean Franchise, where he emphasized the importance of connecting personally with customers and reflecting their culture and values to build brand loyalty. The resilience characteristic of Puerto Rican culture has taught him to approach problems with creativity and persistence—qualities that have proven valuable in both his business experiences and his Eagle Scout project.
At Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, Manuel maintains academic excellence while pursuing a challenging curriculum that includes AP Environmental Science, AP English Literature, AP Psychology, and more. His dedication to academics earned him First Honors in 11th grade. According to Dr. Jose E. Vazquez, his grandfather and the CEO of Caribbean Franchise, Manuel is “highly inquisitive, with an insatiable passion for discovery and learning,” qualities that serve him well in both academic and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Beyond his business endeavors and scouting activities, Manuel’s interests span multiple areas. He plays tennis, enjoys photography, and participates in the Admissions Club at his school. His commitment to environmental stewardship manifests through his involvement in the Environmental Club and his organization of tree-planting events in deforested areas. These activities, along with his participation in beach cleanups around Puerto Rico, reflect his understanding that business leadership and environmental responsibility can—and should—coexist harmoniously.
His extensive community service—totaling over 150 hours—demonstrates his belief that giving back is not just a responsibility but an opportunity for growth. “I feel motivated to give back to my community because I believe in contributing to the good of my community, however small,” he shares. His service experiences have strengthened his leadership abilities and reinforced his desire to create positive change.
Looking ahead, Manuel plans to attend Bentley University, Loyola University Chicago, or Marquette University to pursue a degree in business administration with a minor in entrepreneurship. With practical experience in marketing, finance, and operations, coupled with his proven leadership abilities, Manuel Rodríguez stands ready to bring his community-centered entrepreneurial vision to new ventures that balance business success with social impact.
Manuel Rodríguez
College: Bentley University, Loyola University Chicago, Marquette University
Major: Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship
High School: Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola
Hometown: San Juan, PR
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
Manuel Rodríguez’s entrepreneurial journey began with questions. As his grandfather steered Caribbean Franchise to success with multiple quick-service restaurants across Puerto Rico, Manuel paid attention. He observed operations, studied marketing strategies, and wondered what made businesses thrive. “The inner details of operating a number of well-known franchises within Puerto Rico allowed me a front-row seat into the business world and made me quite curious about how companies are really able to build successful brands and operate efficiently,” he explains. His curiosity would later lead him to an internship with the company, where theory met practice and observation turned into action.
Manuel’s internship at Caribbean Franchise evolved into a comprehensive business bootcamp as he rotated through the marketing, finance, and operations departments. During his time with the marketing team, he crafted a strategic social media campaign that emphasized the franchise’s local ties to Puerto Rico. The result? A significant increase in customer engagement. “It was the first time I saw how ideas are translated into action in the business context,” Manuel reflects. His contributions didn’t stop at marketing. During a meeting about food delivery costs, Manuel’s astute observation about high cost-to-sales ratios prompted staff to investigate further, ultimately leading to expense reductions that improved the company’s bottom line.
His entrepreneurial toolkit expanded through his involvement with Boy Scouts of America, where he currently holds the rank of Life Scout and is on track to earn the prestigious Eagle Scout rank. As Senior Patrol Leader, Manuel manages team dynamics and resource allocation—skills that translate directly to business leadership. His participation in the National Youth Leadership Training Program (NYLT) in 2023 and his selection for the Order of the Arrow that same year further attest to his leadership capabilities within the organization.
Manuel’s Eagle Scout Service Project exemplifies his ability to apply business principles to community-focused endeavors. He designed and is building a therapeutic and educational garden at Centro Corazón Azul, a center supporting adults with level 3 autism. The project required the same skills used in business ventures: project management, budgeting, and team coordination. What was once an area overrun with weeds is being transformed into a space where participants can develop gardening skills while practicing patience, cooperation, and creativity. Manuel directly involved the center’s participants and their families in the project, creating an inclusive environment that fosters community connection.
His Puerto Rican heritage shapes his approach to business and entrepreneurship in meaningful ways. “Growing up in Puerto Rico, I have learned since an early age how important it is to nurture substantial relationships and value the needs and perspectives of others around me,” Manuel explains. This community-centered philosophy influenced his work at Caribbean Franchise, where he emphasized the importance of connecting personally with customers and reflecting their culture and values to build brand loyalty. The resilience characteristic of Puerto Rican culture has taught him to approach problems with creativity and persistence—qualities that have proven valuable in both his business experiences and his Eagle Scout project.
At Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola, Manuel maintains academic excellence while pursuing a challenging curriculum that includes AP Environmental Science, AP English Literature, AP Psychology, and more. His dedication to academics earned him First Honors in 11th grade. According to Dr. Jose E. Vazquez, his grandfather and the CEO of Caribbean Franchise, Manuel is “highly inquisitive, with an insatiable passion for discovery and learning,” qualities that serve him well in both academic and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Beyond his business endeavors and scouting activities, Manuel’s interests span multiple areas. He plays tennis, enjoys photography, and participates in the Admissions Club at his school. His commitment to environmental stewardship manifests through his involvement in the Environmental Club and his organization of tree-planting events in deforested areas. These activities, along with his participation in beach cleanups around Puerto Rico, reflect his understanding that business leadership and environmental responsibility can—and should—coexist harmoniously.
His extensive community service—totaling over 150 hours—demonstrates his belief that giving back is not just a responsibility but an opportunity for growth. “I feel motivated to give back to my community because I believe in contributing to the good of my community, however small,” he shares. His service experiences have strengthened his leadership abilities and reinforced his desire to create positive change.
Looking ahead, Manuel plans to attend Bentley University, Loyola University Chicago, or Marquette University to pursue a degree in business administration with a minor in entrepreneurship. With practical experience in marketing, finance, and operations, coupled with his proven leadership abilities, Manuel Rodríguez stands ready to bring his community-centered entrepreneurial vision to new ventures that balance business success with social impact.
Teal Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Samantha Diaz Soto
GOLD
Samantha Diaz Soto
College: Saint Louis University - Madrid, University of Denver, University of Colorado Denver
Major: Business Administration
High School: Regis Jesuit High School
Hometown: Denver, CO
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Samantha Diaz Soto’s entrepreneurial spirit blossomed from a simple but powerful motivation: to become a role model for young Latinas. “Since I was younger, I was drawn to create something that would inspire others, even before I fully understood how,” explains Samantha. What started as a vague childhood desire to inspire others transformed into a nail business that launched her into the business world with polish and precision.
While many teens often dream about starting a business “someday” Samantha decided that someday was now. With a clearer vision now, even while still in high school, this ambitious Denver native launched her own nail business, jumping into entrepreneurship with both feet—perfectly polished, of course. “What started off as only a thought quickly turned into the biggest project of my entrepreneurial journey,” Samantha explains, reflecting on her bold leap into business ownership.
The nail business opened doors that most high schoolers never even knock on. For example, recognizing her business savvy, the University of Colorado Denver Junior Achievement Business Bound program welcomed Samantha into their ranks, where her skill and initiative caught the program director’s eye. This connection led to her invitation to the Latina Style Business Series—national business development conference for Latina entrepreneurs—where Samantha earned recognition as the youngest entrepreneur present with her own established business. Standing among seasoned business owners, she realized the significance of her achievement: “This recognition affirmed to me that young entrepreneurs, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, can succeed when they have a vision and the perseverance to pursue it.”
The entrepreneurial fire that drives Samantha draws its strength from her Mexican heritage, built upon the values of hard work and resilience. Growing up watching her parents’ relentless work ethic, Samantha absorbed lessons in perseverance that now fuel her entrepreneurial spirit. She aims to represent the strength of her community and demonstrate that diligence leads to success. This perspective shapes her view on an issue she frequently sees affecting Hispanic communities: hesitancy to take risks and chase dreams. Through her own success, Samantha hopes to inspire others—especially youth—to break free from limiting beliefs and pursue ambitious goals.
Leadership comes naturally to Samantha. As a fourth-year camp leader at the National Leadership Conference, she gained valuable experience guiding others. Her leadership abilities also shine in her role as a Boys Hope Girls Hope (BHGH) Scholar, where she mentors younger students struggling to navigate the challenges of high school. Her exceptional qualities led BHGH Colorado to select her as their representative at board meetings, where she advocates for high school students from diverse backgrounds.
Service to others remains central to Samantha’s vision of success. Through BHGH, she worked with peers to design an education campaign raising awareness about the needs of new migrants arriving in Denver. She has also participated in service immersions, built homes with Habitat for Humanity, served meals at shelters for the unhoused, and spent time at retirement homes. Her service even took her to Jerusalem Farms in Kansas City, Missouri, where she learned about sustainability, simplicity, and the impacts of redlining on communities of color.
While building her business empire, Samantha balances academics at Regis Jesuit High School with a schedule filled with AP and honors courses including AP European History, AP Microeconomics, AP Spanish, and more. Beyond academics, she participates in Track and Field and Latinos Unidos while also finding time to work at the Denver Zoo.
Amy Strickland, Senior Program Manager at Boys Hope Girls Hope of Colorado, describes Samantha as “a go-getter” who transformed from an uncertain freshman to “a confident student and a mature leader” by her sophomore year. “She had figured out how to stay on top of her assignments, to manage her time well, and to almost always say ‘yes’ to opportunities for growth,” notes Strickland, adding that Samantha serves as “a model to follow” for younger scholars who face similar challenges.
The entrepreneurial journey continues for Samantha as she prepares to study business administration at Saint Louis University - Madrid, the University of Denver, or the University of Colorado Denver. Armed with practical experience, leadership skills, and a mission to uplift her community, she stands ready to expand her entrepreneurial impact while inspiring other young Latinas to chase their own business dreams.
Samantha Diaz Soto
College: Saint Louis University - Madrid, University of Denver, University of Colorado Denver
Major: Business Administration
High School: Regis Jesuit High School
Hometown: Denver, CO
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
Samantha Diaz Soto’s entrepreneurial spirit blossomed from a simple but powerful motivation: to become a role model for young Latinas. “Since I was younger, I was drawn to create something that would inspire others, even before I fully understood how,” explains Samantha. What started as a vague childhood desire to inspire others transformed into a nail business that launched her into the business world with polish and precision.
While many teens often dream about starting a business “someday” Samantha decided that someday was now. With a clearer vision now, even while still in high school, this ambitious Denver native launched her own nail business, jumping into entrepreneurship with both feet—perfectly polished, of course. “What started off as only a thought quickly turned into the biggest project of my entrepreneurial journey,” Samantha explains, reflecting on her bold leap into business ownership.
The nail business opened doors that most high schoolers never even knock on. For example, recognizing her business savvy, the University of Colorado Denver Junior Achievement Business Bound program welcomed Samantha into their ranks, where her skill and initiative caught the program director’s eye. This connection led to her invitation to the Latina Style Business Series—national business development conference for Latina entrepreneurs—where Samantha earned recognition as the youngest entrepreneur present with her own established business. Standing among seasoned business owners, she realized the significance of her achievement: “This recognition affirmed to me that young entrepreneurs, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, can succeed when they have a vision and the perseverance to pursue it.”
The entrepreneurial fire that drives Samantha draws its strength from her Mexican heritage, built upon the values of hard work and resilience. Growing up watching her parents’ relentless work ethic, Samantha absorbed lessons in perseverance that now fuel her entrepreneurial spirit. She aims to represent the strength of her community and demonstrate that diligence leads to success. This perspective shapes her view on an issue she frequently sees affecting Hispanic communities: hesitancy to take risks and chase dreams. Through her own success, Samantha hopes to inspire others—especially youth—to break free from limiting beliefs and pursue ambitious goals.
Leadership comes naturally to Samantha. As a fourth-year camp leader at the National Leadership Conference, she gained valuable experience guiding others. Her leadership abilities also shine in her role as a Boys Hope Girls Hope (BHGH) Scholar, where she mentors younger students struggling to navigate the challenges of high school. Her exceptional qualities led BHGH Colorado to select her as their representative at board meetings, where she advocates for high school students from diverse backgrounds.
Service to others remains central to Samantha’s vision of success. Through BHGH, she worked with peers to design an education campaign raising awareness about the needs of new migrants arriving in Denver. She has also participated in service immersions, built homes with Habitat for Humanity, served meals at shelters for the unhoused, and spent time at retirement homes. Her service even took her to Jerusalem Farms in Kansas City, Missouri, where she learned about sustainability, simplicity, and the impacts of redlining on communities of color.
While building her business empire, Samantha balances academics at Regis Jesuit High School with a schedule filled with AP and honors courses including AP European History, AP Microeconomics, AP Spanish, and more. Beyond academics, she participates in Track and Field and Latinos Unidos while also finding time to work at the Denver Zoo.
Amy Strickland, Senior Program Manager at Boys Hope Girls Hope of Colorado, describes Samantha as “a go-getter” who transformed from an uncertain freshman to “a confident student and a mature leader” by her sophomore year. “She had figured out how to stay on top of her assignments, to manage her time well, and to almost always say ‘yes’ to opportunities for growth,” notes Strickland, adding that Samantha serves as “a model to follow” for younger scholars who face similar challenges.
The entrepreneurial journey continues for Samantha as she prepares to study business administration at Saint Louis University - Madrid, the University of Denver, or the University of Colorado Denver. Armed with practical experience, leadership skills, and a mission to uplift her community, she stands ready to expand her entrepreneurial impact while inspiring other young Latinas to chase their own business dreams.
SILVER - Joanna Perez-Hernandez
SILVER
Joanna Perez-Hernandez
College: George Fox University, Syracuse University, University of Pennsylvania
Major: Architecture with a minor in Language
High School: La Salle Catholic College Prep
Hometown: Portland, OR
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
After filling out job applications and not getting the response she wanted, Joanna Perez-Hernandez took matters into her own hands and started a food business. Initially, she began selling fruit cups, which were an instant hit. Over time, she felt that she could expand her offerings and offer more. So, together with her mother, the two began selling different dishes to the delight of many in the community.
“One of my proudest achievements was making quesabirrias with my mom and selling them to people. We earned a lot of money in just a few hours, which gave my mom and me lots of hope. It was a big moment because we loved that many people wanted to buy from us, and we were getting so many compliments,” she said.
For the driven La Salle Catholic College Prep student, this joint food venture with her mother was a big accomplishment because it pushed her to step out of her comfort zone and take a chance. The memorable moment allowed her to show others she could do much more than tennis and school. Along with her earnings that go toward a college fund, the young entrepreneur learned extremely valuable lessons—to not give up if something is not going your way and to realize your potential.
Proud of her Mexican roots, Perez-Hernandez credits her local Latinx community for influencing her approach to business and entrepreneurship. Specifically, she loved observing others selling food and the friendly interactions between customers and business owners. What inspires her the most is seeing many Hispanics come from nothing and still find their way to do something successful and have a good business. Like them, she possesses a strong work ethic, determination, and a sense of dignity.
Along with this endeavor, Perez-Hernandez also is active in the community. Over the last several years, she has supported the Blanchet House and the Oregon Food Bank, volunteering to pack food to help feed people throughout Portland.
As for what’s next, Joanna Perez-Hernandez is on her way to realizing her dream of being the first in her family to attend university. She will attend George Fox University, Syracuse University, or the University of Pennsylvania to major in architecture with a minor in language.
Joanna Perez-Hernandez
College: George Fox University, Syracuse University, University of Pennsylvania
Major: Architecture with a minor in Language
High School: La Salle Catholic College Prep
Hometown: Portland, OR
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
After filling out job applications and not getting the response she wanted, Joanna Perez-Hernandez took matters into her own hands and started a food business. Initially, she began selling fruit cups, which were an instant hit. Over time, she felt that she could expand her offerings and offer more. So, together with her mother, the two began selling different dishes to the delight of many in the community.
“One of my proudest achievements was making quesabirrias with my mom and selling them to people. We earned a lot of money in just a few hours, which gave my mom and me lots of hope. It was a big moment because we loved that many people wanted to buy from us, and we were getting so many compliments,” she said.
For the driven La Salle Catholic College Prep student, this joint food venture with her mother was a big accomplishment because it pushed her to step out of her comfort zone and take a chance. The memorable moment allowed her to show others she could do much more than tennis and school. Along with her earnings that go toward a college fund, the young entrepreneur learned extremely valuable lessons—to not give up if something is not going your way and to realize your potential.
Proud of her Mexican roots, Perez-Hernandez credits her local Latinx community for influencing her approach to business and entrepreneurship. Specifically, she loved observing others selling food and the friendly interactions between customers and business owners. What inspires her the most is seeing many Hispanics come from nothing and still find their way to do something successful and have a good business. Like them, she possesses a strong work ethic, determination, and a sense of dignity.
Along with this endeavor, Perez-Hernandez also is active in the community. Over the last several years, she has supported the Blanchet House and the Oregon Food Bank, volunteering to pack food to help feed people throughout Portland.
As for what’s next, Joanna Perez-Hernandez is on her way to realizing her dream of being the first in her family to attend university. She will attend George Fox University, Syracuse University, or the University of Pennsylvania to major in architecture with a minor in language.
BRONZE - Sofia Mejia
BRONZE
Sofia Mejia
College: Colorado Mesa University, Colorado State University, University of Colorado Boulder
Major: Business Administration with a minor in Real Estate
High School: Basalt High School
Hometown: Snowmas, CO
Hispanic Heritage: Salvadoran
Apprenticing with her aunt gave Sofia Mejia a first-hand look at the process of permanent hair straightening and what it takes to run a business. Motivated, she asked a friend to join her to start offering this in-demand service. Within a short time, they built a loyal client base that appreciated their skills.
Of her proudest accomplishment in business and entrepreneurship, she said, “This experience taught me the value of observation and adaptability in business. Every interaction with clients and every challenge we faced was a learning opportunity. Negotiation proved to be both challenging and enjoyable.”
This achievement was particularly significant for the driven student at Basalt High School in Colorado because it catapulted her entrepreneurial journey. With foresight and focused effort, she found that she could turn her ideas into something concrete. Besides, her permanent hair straightening service only confirmed her desire to pursue a business career, making her excited about the possibilities of creating something meaningful and impactful.
From taking related college courses such as statistics to reading about investment strategies and organizing fundraising events as part of the student council, Mejia took every chance to expand her knowledge and leadership skills after realizing a talent for business. As a result, she cultivated many important skills, such as project management and effective collaboration.
As a Latina of Salvadoran descent, Mejia admits that her background did impact her approach to business and entrepreneurship. Mindful that educational and professional opportunities may be lacking for Hispanic women, she wants to break those barriers and aspires to be a role model for younger generations.
Community service, including tutoring students newly arrived in the United States, is another interest close to her heart. Along with helping address language barriers, she helps them navigate their new environment. As part of the Latinx Voices Club, she organized events to help make Latinx students feel more connected to their school community, among other activities.
Sofia Mejia hopes to leverage all these enriching experiences as she pursues her goals in the dynamic field of business. Next, she plans on attending Colorado Mesa University, Colorado State University, or the University of Colorado Boulder to major in business administration with a minor in real estate.
Sofia Mejia
College: Colorado Mesa University, Colorado State University, University of Colorado Boulder
Major: Business Administration with a minor in Real Estate
High School: Basalt High School
Hometown: Snowmas, CO
Hispanic Heritage: Salvadoran
Apprenticing with her aunt gave Sofia Mejia a first-hand look at the process of permanent hair straightening and what it takes to run a business. Motivated, she asked a friend to join her to start offering this in-demand service. Within a short time, they built a loyal client base that appreciated their skills.
Of her proudest accomplishment in business and entrepreneurship, she said, “This experience taught me the value of observation and adaptability in business. Every interaction with clients and every challenge we faced was a learning opportunity. Negotiation proved to be both challenging and enjoyable.”
This achievement was particularly significant for the driven student at Basalt High School in Colorado because it catapulted her entrepreneurial journey. With foresight and focused effort, she found that she could turn her ideas into something concrete. Besides, her permanent hair straightening service only confirmed her desire to pursue a business career, making her excited about the possibilities of creating something meaningful and impactful.
From taking related college courses such as statistics to reading about investment strategies and organizing fundraising events as part of the student council, Mejia took every chance to expand her knowledge and leadership skills after realizing a talent for business. As a result, she cultivated many important skills, such as project management and effective collaboration.
As a Latina of Salvadoran descent, Mejia admits that her background did impact her approach to business and entrepreneurship. Mindful that educational and professional opportunities may be lacking for Hispanic women, she wants to break those barriers and aspires to be a role model for younger generations.
Community service, including tutoring students newly arrived in the United States, is another interest close to her heart. Along with helping address language barriers, she helps them navigate their new environment. As part of the Latinx Voices Club, she organized events to help make Latinx students feel more connected to their school community, among other activities.
Sofia Mejia hopes to leverage all these enriching experiences as she pursues her goals in the dynamic field of business. Next, she plans on attending Colorado Mesa University, Colorado State University, or the University of Colorado Boulder to major in business administration with a minor in real estate.
Yellow Region
Please select a recipient name to read their bio.
GOLD - Sydney Prentice
GOLD
Sydney Prentice
College: California State University, East Bay; California State University, Bakersfield; Arizona State University
Major: Business & Marketing with a minor in Education
High School: Campo Verde High School
Hometown: Gilbert, AZ
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
When you picture a business leader, who comes to mind? For Sydney Prentice, it was her best friend’s mom—a woman who ran an entire company with confidence and authority. “When you think about business, you usually picture men running the show but not this lady,” Sydney explains. “I admired that immensely.” Little did she know that a global pandemic would soon accelerate her path from admirer to entrepreneur.
When COVID-19 shut the world down in 2020, Sydney launched her own online clothing resale business from her Gilbert, Arizona home. What started with selling her own clothes quickly expanded as friends and family entrusted her with their items. “At first, I had a couple of likes and interests, but before long I had girls from my school purchasing my clothes from me,” Sydney recalls. What began as selling her own wardrobe soon expanded to include her parents’ unused items and even her friends’ clothing. “Initially, I started the business to make money, but then it became about the presentation and marketing aspect of sales,” Sydney recalls. Though school commitments eventually required her to close shop, her entrepreneurial spirit lives on through “Swim Snail” her clothing line through Rise-Fit athletics.
Her marketing abilities shine through school projects as well, like when she volunteered to create a strategy for selling “Razza Treats”—dog treats made by special education students. Sydney helped the students name their product and develop a marketing approach that resulted in approximately 300 bags sold to school staff.
Sydney’s Mexican heritage infuses her business approach with cultural values centered on family and joy. Her memories of her family’s 37-year-running Mexican food stand at the Los Angeles County State Fair highlight a business philosophy grounded in community. What stood out most wasn’t just the delicious food but the joyful atmosphere created despite the tight quarters. “For me, this was the way Hispanic families operated. We laugh and joke, but we work hard,” Sydney reflects. This cultural perspective shapes her vision of leadership: creating workplaces where people want to be rather than have to be—where hard work coexists with enjoyment and fulfillment.
Her awareness of economic challenges facing Hispanic communities shapes her business goals. Sydney points to underemployment as a critical issue, noting that “by the time money flows into our communities, there is nothing left.” Having watched her Nana clean houses for less than minimum wage and witnessing the dangers faced by Hispanic laborers working in Arizona’s extreme heat, Sydney has developed a clear mission: to become “a voice for the Hispanic workforce.” Her plans include partnering with schools to promote post-secondary opportunities through both college and apprenticeship programs—creating pathways to economic advancement that have historically been limited.
Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Sydney excels academically at Campo Verde High School while tackling a challenging array of AP courses. Her academic achievements have earned her recognition as a Golden Scholar, along with a Congress of Future Medical Leaders Award of Excellence.
In the athletic arena, Sydney shines as a talented swimmer, earning the Campo Verde High Swim & Dive MVP award in 2023 and serving as team captain during the 2024 swim season. Her dedication extends to volunteering with Swim USA, where she began by timing or lap counting at meets and progressed to helping with setup and administrative services.
Sydney’s service ethic runs particularly strong in her work with individuals with disabilities. Through organizations like Unified Sports and Best Buddies, she creates opportunities for those with unique abilities to experience moments of achievement and joy. “There are no words to describe the amount of love, joy, and support that every individual feels at these events,” she shares.
Her leadership skills flourish in her role with Link Crew, where she organizes Freshman Orientation for her high school. Remembering how important upperclassmen were in easing her own transition to high school, Sydney dedicates herself to paying it forward. She coordinates a day filled with breakfast, lunch, mixers, and informative sessions designed to help freshmen navigate their new environment.
“Sydney stands out as a passionate and committed young woman of color who consistently strives for excellence,” writes Alicia Jacobo Kenney, Health Equity Program Manager at the Arizona Department of Health Services. “She is a natural leader who inspires others.”
Sydney plans to attend California State University, East Bay; California State University, Bakersfield; or Arizona State University to study business and marketing with a minor in education. Her goal of creating workplaces where people want to be—combining her Mexican cultural values of family, hard work, and joy with her commitment to advocacy for the Hispanic workforce—offers a refreshing vision for the future of business leadership. With her marketing savvy and commitment to community, Sydney Prentice is poised to bring a much-needed perspective to the business world.
Sydney Prentice
College: California State University, East Bay; California State University, Bakersfield; Arizona State University
Major: Business & Marketing with a minor in Education
High School: Campo Verde High School
Hometown: Gilbert, AZ
Hispanic Heritage: Mexican
When you picture a business leader, who comes to mind? For Sydney Prentice, it was her best friend’s mom—a woman who ran an entire company with confidence and authority. “When you think about business, you usually picture men running the show but not this lady,” Sydney explains. “I admired that immensely.” Little did she know that a global pandemic would soon accelerate her path from admirer to entrepreneur.
When COVID-19 shut the world down in 2020, Sydney launched her own online clothing resale business from her Gilbert, Arizona home. What started with selling her own clothes quickly expanded as friends and family entrusted her with their items. “At first, I had a couple of likes and interests, but before long I had girls from my school purchasing my clothes from me,” Sydney recalls. What began as selling her own wardrobe soon expanded to include her parents’ unused items and even her friends’ clothing. “Initially, I started the business to make money, but then it became about the presentation and marketing aspect of sales,” Sydney recalls. Though school commitments eventually required her to close shop, her entrepreneurial spirit lives on through “Swim Snail” her clothing line through Rise-Fit athletics.
Her marketing abilities shine through school projects as well, like when she volunteered to create a strategy for selling “Razza Treats”—dog treats made by special education students. Sydney helped the students name their product and develop a marketing approach that resulted in approximately 300 bags sold to school staff.
Sydney’s Mexican heritage infuses her business approach with cultural values centered on family and joy. Her memories of her family’s 37-year-running Mexican food stand at the Los Angeles County State Fair highlight a business philosophy grounded in community. What stood out most wasn’t just the delicious food but the joyful atmosphere created despite the tight quarters. “For me, this was the way Hispanic families operated. We laugh and joke, but we work hard,” Sydney reflects. This cultural perspective shapes her vision of leadership: creating workplaces where people want to be rather than have to be—where hard work coexists with enjoyment and fulfillment.
Her awareness of economic challenges facing Hispanic communities shapes her business goals. Sydney points to underemployment as a critical issue, noting that “by the time money flows into our communities, there is nothing left.” Having watched her Nana clean houses for less than minimum wage and witnessing the dangers faced by Hispanic laborers working in Arizona’s extreme heat, Sydney has developed a clear mission: to become “a voice for the Hispanic workforce.” Her plans include partnering with schools to promote post-secondary opportunities through both college and apprenticeship programs—creating pathways to economic advancement that have historically been limited.
Beyond her entrepreneurial pursuits, Sydney excels academically at Campo Verde High School while tackling a challenging array of AP courses. Her academic achievements have earned her recognition as a Golden Scholar, along with a Congress of Future Medical Leaders Award of Excellence.
In the athletic arena, Sydney shines as a talented swimmer, earning the Campo Verde High Swim & Dive MVP award in 2023 and serving as team captain during the 2024 swim season. Her dedication extends to volunteering with Swim USA, where she began by timing or lap counting at meets and progressed to helping with setup and administrative services.
Sydney’s service ethic runs particularly strong in her work with individuals with disabilities. Through organizations like Unified Sports and Best Buddies, she creates opportunities for those with unique abilities to experience moments of achievement and joy. “There are no words to describe the amount of love, joy, and support that every individual feels at these events,” she shares.
Her leadership skills flourish in her role with Link Crew, where she organizes Freshman Orientation for her high school. Remembering how important upperclassmen were in easing her own transition to high school, Sydney dedicates herself to paying it forward. She coordinates a day filled with breakfast, lunch, mixers, and informative sessions designed to help freshmen navigate their new environment.
“Sydney stands out as a passionate and committed young woman of color who consistently strives for excellence,” writes Alicia Jacobo Kenney, Health Equity Program Manager at the Arizona Department of Health Services. “She is a natural leader who inspires others.”
Sydney plans to attend California State University, East Bay; California State University, Bakersfield; or Arizona State University to study business and marketing with a minor in education. Her goal of creating workplaces where people want to be—combining her Mexican cultural values of family, hard work, and joy with her commitment to advocacy for the Hispanic workforce—offers a refreshing vision for the future of business leadership. With her marketing savvy and commitment to community, Sydney Prentice is poised to bring a much-needed perspective to the business world.
SILVER - Kaleb Watts
SILVER
Kaleb Watts
College: Georgia Institute of Technology, Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley
Major: Computer Science with an emphasis on machine learning and cybersecurity with a minor in Mathematics, Economics, or Data Science
High School: Verrado High School
Hometown: Buckeye, AZ
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
Building something from the ground up is something that gives Kaleb Watts incredible satisfaction. After exploring potential business ideas, he stumbled upon success in online marketing, becoming an Amazon Associate and advertising and selling products from the online retailer on a dedicated Instagram account. This ever-evolving endeavor is his proudest accomplishment in entrepreneurship by far.
“I took the time to learn how to research products, create content that connects with target groups of people, and figured out what drives them to click or buy a specific product, all while creating advertisements in the process,” he said on how it all came together.
An exceptional student at Verrado High School in Arizona, Watts says that his love for business began with a curiosity about making money, trying to figure out ways he can create businesses that work and produce revenue. As he grew the venture, he actively sought programs to help him with business and read books, such as The Personal MBA, for more guidance and motivation. Acknowledging that his path to entrepreneurship is a work in progress, he still enjoys discovering what works and what doesn’t and making decisions.
Watts, who is of Puerto Rican descent, recognizes his roots and that growing up in a Latinx family taught him the value of being a hard worker, making the most of what you have, and not complaining about anything lacking. These are the same principles he practices when approaching business, adding that his family’s resourcefulness also inspired him to be the same way when tackling projects. In addition, the Amazon Associate who runs his own Instagram for marketing learned to get creative and find ways to connect with people from all walks of life. From his culture, he also learned how important it is to think about the impact he is making, not just the results.
Pondering the future, Watts hopes there will be more Latinx voices in business, which is extremely important for bringing new ideas and perspectives. Honoring his Hispanic heritage, he shares that his background, for the most part, has taught him to stay strong and to think things through before taking action.
Giving back to the community also comes naturally. Whether assisting neighbors with yard work or trying to be a good influence at school by helping out other students, he sets an example whenever possible. Through his club involvement, he tries to promote a community that can collectively share the importance of their goals and interests. Supporting others has been one of his best contributions and genuinely gives him a sense of purpose. Among his many extracurricular activities and sports are being the team captain for the varsity swim team, founder of the Machine Learning Club focusing on AI, treasurer of the National STEM Club, and a member of the National Honor Society.
With a positive mindset and willingness to take on new challenges, Kaleb Watts is looking forward to what unfolds next. He is excited to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, Stanford University, or the University of California, Berkley to major in computer science, with an emphasis on machine learning and cybersecurity, and a minor in mathematics, economics, or data science.
Kaleb Watts
College: Georgia Institute of Technology, Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley
Major: Computer Science with an emphasis on machine learning and cybersecurity with a minor in Mathematics, Economics, or Data Science
High School: Verrado High School
Hometown: Buckeye, AZ
Hispanic Heritage: Puerto Rican
Building something from the ground up is something that gives Kaleb Watts incredible satisfaction. After exploring potential business ideas, he stumbled upon success in online marketing, becoming an Amazon Associate and advertising and selling products from the online retailer on a dedicated Instagram account. This ever-evolving endeavor is his proudest accomplishment in entrepreneurship by far.
“I took the time to learn how to research products, create content that connects with target groups of people, and figured out what drives them to click or buy a specific product, all while creating advertisements in the process,” he said on how it all came together.
An exceptional student at Verrado High School in Arizona, Watts says that his love for business began with a curiosity about making money, trying to figure out ways he can create businesses that work and produce revenue. As he grew the venture, he actively sought programs to help him with business and read books, such as The Personal MBA, for more guidance and motivation. Acknowledging that his path to entrepreneurship is a work in progress, he still enjoys discovering what works and what doesn’t and making decisions.
Watts, who is of Puerto Rican descent, recognizes his roots and that growing up in a Latinx family taught him the value of being a hard worker, making the most of what you have, and not complaining about anything lacking. These are the same principles he practices when approaching business, adding that his family’s resourcefulness also inspired him to be the same way when tackling projects. In addition, the Amazon Associate who runs his own Instagram for marketing learned to get creative and find ways to connect with people from all walks of life. From his culture, he also learned how important it is to think about the impact he is making, not just the results.
Pondering the future, Watts hopes there will be more Latinx voices in business, which is extremely important for bringing new ideas and perspectives. Honoring his Hispanic heritage, he shares that his background, for the most part, has taught him to stay strong and to think things through before taking action.
Giving back to the community also comes naturally. Whether assisting neighbors with yard work or trying to be a good influence at school by helping out other students, he sets an example whenever possible. Through his club involvement, he tries to promote a community that can collectively share the importance of their goals and interests. Supporting others has been one of his best contributions and genuinely gives him a sense of purpose. Among his many extracurricular activities and sports are being the team captain for the varsity swim team, founder of the Machine Learning Club focusing on AI, treasurer of the National STEM Club, and a member of the National Honor Society.
With a positive mindset and willingness to take on new challenges, Kaleb Watts is looking forward to what unfolds next. He is excited to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, Stanford University, or the University of California, Berkley to major in computer science, with an emphasis on machine learning and cybersecurity, and a minor in mathematics, economics, or data science.
BRONZE - Elisa LeGere
BRONZE
Elisa LeGere
College: California Aeronautical University, Arizona State University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Major: Aeronautics with a minor in Business
High School: Paradise Honors High School
Hometown: Surprise, AZ
Hispanic Heritage: Ecuadorian
Elisa LeGere always dreamt of selling her handmade crochet creations. So, one day, she took the leap and began selling her original items from the comfort of her own booth at the local farmers market. Achieving this goal is her proudest accomplishment in business and entrepreneurship.
However, the creative entrepreneur says managing the endeavor requires a lot of work when tackling all the different jobs that a business entails. From making the items to photographing them, creating content for social media, prepping for markets, and promoting the items, she does it all for her one-person operation.
Reflecting on the positive experience, she said, “I am proud of myself because I can balance my small business and school and succeed in both. I take great pride in each crochet stuffed animal I make, and I am so thankful to be able to attend markets and have customers interested in the items I make.”
A student at Paradise Honors High School in Arizona, LeGere, who is of Ecuadorian descent, first became interested in entrepreneurship and business after her grandmother gave her a book on the fundamentals. From then, she decided to turn her hobby into a small business. Along the way, she worked for an event planning company run by a friend of her mother. Being surrounded by small business owners intrigued her, and seeing people work hard to build something new ultimately influenced her to start her entrepreneurial venture.
LeGere turned her love of crocheting into something bigger and says her Hispanic heritage also shaped her approach to business. From her grandmother, who moved to the United States from Ecuador, she learned the importance of working hard and doing something she loves that brings her joy. Also, whenever a problem arose, she thought about how her beloved abuela would handle the situation. Today, her Hispanic roots still encourage, inspire, and motivate her to work hard as she grows her business.
In the community, knowing that her time and effort can create a difference in someone’s life is what inspires her to participate in volunteer work. As a member of her school’s Key Club International, she goes on many service trips, has volunteered at the local library, and has assembled hygiene kits for homeless individuals. With the local church, she volunteered to give people in need clothes by working with families to find articles of clothing that would get them through the winter and holiday season. Knowing she can make someone’s day a little easier pushes her to dedicate time to community service.
From selling her creations to being active in the community, Elisa LeGere excels in all her efforts. Now, the next area of focus will be attending California Aeronautical University, Arizona State University, or Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to major in aeronautics with a minor in business.
Elisa LeGere
College: California Aeronautical University, Arizona State University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Major: Aeronautics with a minor in Business
High School: Paradise Honors High School
Hometown: Surprise, AZ
Hispanic Heritage: Ecuadorian
Elisa LeGere always dreamt of selling her handmade crochet creations. So, one day, she took the leap and began selling her original items from the comfort of her own booth at the local farmers market. Achieving this goal is her proudest accomplishment in business and entrepreneurship.
However, the creative entrepreneur says managing the endeavor requires a lot of work when tackling all the different jobs that a business entails. From making the items to photographing them, creating content for social media, prepping for markets, and promoting the items, she does it all for her one-person operation.
Reflecting on the positive experience, she said, “I am proud of myself because I can balance my small business and school and succeed in both. I take great pride in each crochet stuffed animal I make, and I am so thankful to be able to attend markets and have customers interested in the items I make.”
A student at Paradise Honors High School in Arizona, LeGere, who is of Ecuadorian descent, first became interested in entrepreneurship and business after her grandmother gave her a book on the fundamentals. From then, she decided to turn her hobby into a small business. Along the way, she worked for an event planning company run by a friend of her mother. Being surrounded by small business owners intrigued her, and seeing people work hard to build something new ultimately influenced her to start her entrepreneurial venture.
LeGere turned her love of crocheting into something bigger and says her Hispanic heritage also shaped her approach to business. From her grandmother, who moved to the United States from Ecuador, she learned the importance of working hard and doing something she loves that brings her joy. Also, whenever a problem arose, she thought about how her beloved abuela would handle the situation. Today, her Hispanic roots still encourage, inspire, and motivate her to work hard as she grows her business.
In the community, knowing that her time and effort can create a difference in someone’s life is what inspires her to participate in volunteer work. As a member of her school’s Key Club International, she goes on many service trips, has volunteered at the local library, and has assembled hygiene kits for homeless individuals. With the local church, she volunteered to give people in need clothes by working with families to find articles of clothing that would get them through the winter and holiday season. Knowing she can make someone’s day a little easier pushes her to dedicate time to community service.
From selling her creations to being active in the community, Elisa LeGere excels in all her efforts. Now, the next area of focus will be attending California Aeronautical University, Arizona State University, or Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to major in aeronautics with a minor in business.