By Apollo Criglar
Jackson State University’s TRIO Educational Opportunity Center collaborated with United Way of the Capital Area (UWCA) to host the inaugural Emerging Entrepreneur Leadership Symposium. Last month’s event aimed to equip high school students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of starting their own businesses.
“Our goal is to support students in their effort to be entrepreneurs,” explained Julis Frank, director of the JSU TRIO Education Opportunity Center. “We want to provide the necessary tools to be dedicated and committed to what they are doing and the preparation phase that goes into it.”
Approximately 150 students from five high schools in the tri-county area attended the event held in the JSU E-Center. The participating schools were Piney Woods Country Life School, Lanier High School, Provine High School, Callaway High School, and Forest Hill High School.
This initiative is timely as students prepare to navigate a rapidly evolving job market. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals have rethought their traditional career trajectories. The “Great Resignation” phenomenon saw numerous people leave their jobs in pursuit of more fulfilling opportunities or the chance to launch their own enterprises.
While the allure of entrepreneurship is appealing, the event collaborators felt that aspiring young business owners should recognize the significant effort and determination needed to establish a successful venture.
“Students often mistakenly believe that entrepreneurship is a simple endeavor after viewing success stories shared on YouTube or social media,” according to Kenitra Wallace, UWCA VP of Community Impact. “The key to creating a successful business, however, is dedication, strategic planning, and resilience.”
The event featured panel discussions, breakout sessions, and a Shark Tank-style pitch contest. Students presented their business ideas to local entrepreneurs for a chance to win $100 to open their own bank accounts. As participants explored the four Ps of marketing (price, product, place, and promotion), they gained valuable insight into managing a business.
During breakout sessions, the young scholars learned that success is subjective and varies from person to person. The facilitators explained that business owners’ reasoning for venturing into entrepreneurship varied, including financial independence and the ability to create a lasting family legacy.
“I learned new things that no one ever told me about,” said Iesha Perkins, a Provine High School senior. “I feel it is important to understand and learn things from different entrepreneurs and businesses outside of what we know.”
Beyond imparting practical knowledge, the event aimed to nurture leadership skills and promote community engagement. One long-term objective is to create a ripple effect, encouraging attendees to share their newfound knowledge with their peers and inspiring other students and schools to consider entrepreneurship a legitimate career option.
Throughout the day, the importance of community contribution was emphasized. In addition to considering the benefits of entrepreneurship, students were encouraged to consider their potential impact on the economic development of their neighborhoods.
Kenitra Wallace emphasized, “We must retain our talented youth in the Mississippi tri-county area. By educating and equipping them for business success, we can uplift the entire community.”