18 young entrepreneurs featured at Junior Achievement of Eastern Ohio’s Youth Market Day
Junior Achievement of Eastern Ohio, in partnership with The Eastwood Mall and The Cafaro Foundation, hosted a Youth Market Day in Center Court on April 27.
Eighteen young entrepreneurs gained real-world experience in commerce, while learning how to price according to the market and engage with consumers.
Youth Market Day, in conjunction with our Start My Business Workshop, is designed to introduce our young people to ways to participate in a global economy. Both events are held at various times throughout the year, and are geared towards building a solid foundation of knowledge on how to go from concept to product.
During our Youth Market Day, participants were judged on several criteria by local business professionals, including Caitlin Nemergut, ASECU, Dr. Pat Callihan, ELLWOOD Aluminum, and Theresa Miller, Valley Economic Development Partners. The award for People’s Choice, which was voted on by consumers, went to Ke’Mani Harvey, who sold bibs, onesies, and baby bottles with customized labels. Kadience Parker, owner of Gurly Girl Accessories, took home Best of Show (most creative) for her hair accessories and jewelry, and Best Product (most original) went to Reilly Braun, who sold laser cut products made from wood.
“The turnout for this Youth Market Day was fantastic,” said Michele Merkel, president of Junior Achievement of Eastern Ohio. “Our young entrepreneurs came prepared, had a great selection of products, and knowledge about their businesses. They really impressed our judges.”