West Point High School Kicks Off Inaugural Entrepreneurial Expo
Excitement filled the air at West Point High School as students unveiled their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit during the very first NexGen Entrepreneurial Expo. This event aimed to provide students with a platform to showcase their talents while learning valuable lessons about running a business.
Building Foundations for Future Success
The event’s coordinator, Latesha Bush, emphasized the importance of multiple streams of income. She pointed out that having a side hustle can be invaluable. “So even if you have another job, you can always do something else on the side,” Bush noted. “Whether it’s baking, doing crafts, or even creating your own clothing line, the sky’s the limit!”
Student Success Stories
Among the youthful entrepreneurs was Xzavier Roberson, who was busy displaying his clothing line, “Paid Wrld Clothing”. Roberson launched this line to inspire others, sharing his vision, “I wanted to let kids and other people know that they can have unlimited dreams and they can be remarkable.” His passion for helping others and instilling a sense of ambition in his peers shone through his work.
Not to be outdone, students Chase Carter and Cameron Leavy showcased their brand, “Bigger Than Life”. Driven by their love for fashion and self-expression, they too aimed to uplift and motivate their younger peers. “I want to show the young ones they can do it and motivate them,” Carter expressed. Leavy added that support and fresh ideas are crucial in the entrepreneurial journey.
Preparing Students for Future Adventures
Latesha Bush underscored her goal of preparing students for diverse paths after high school, stating, “Just imagine, if they can start now, in high school, where will that person be right out of high school? They will be very well off and established.” This is a sentiment echoed by Principal Temeka Shannon, who hopes students grasp the essence of entrepreneurship.
“Whether students are participating in an entrepreneurial affair, or if they will be an entrepreneur or go to college majoring in nursing, whatever the case may be,” Shannon explained, “You have to be responsible. You have to plan.” The principle of planning is vital, regardless of the career path students choose, emphasizing readiness for their next steps in life.
Exciting Prospects Ahead
What’s more, the faculty at West Point High School hopes to make this Entrepreneurial Expo an annual event! They are even looking into starting an entrepreneurship class to further equip students with the necessary skills to succeed. Each booth was assessed, and top-prize winners received gift cards, adding a competitive edge to the experience.
The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in West Point, and with events like the Entrepreneurial Expo, the future looks bright for these aspiring young business leaders. Who knows? The next big name in fashion or business may very well emerge from this talented crop of high school students!
