NuJourney Foundation Inc. is proud to introduce the Junior Boss Spotlight & Academy Program, a program designed to feature young adults who are in the early stages of their entrepreneurial journey or have already begun to make their mark as young entrepreneurs.

This program aims to highlight the achievements and aspirations of these amazing young individuals by featuring them across our social media platforms and in our newsletter. Additionally, these participants are eligible to partcipate in our highly anticipated Jr. Boss Academy, which provides mentorship and a course curriculum to provide education on building sustainable businesses.

Featured Across Social Media and Publications  

Participants selected for the Jr. Boss Spotlight will be showcased across our organization's social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Their stories, achievements, and entrepreneurial journey will be highlighted to inspire and motivate others. 

A dedicated section in our newsletter will also be reserved to share the stories and accomplishments of the featured young entrepreneurs. 

Entrepreneurial Mentoring Services 

Each participant will receive personalized entrepreneurial mentoring/coaching services. Our team of experienced mentors will provide guidance, support, and expertise in various aspects of entrepreneurship, including business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and more.

Entrepreneurial Education Bootcamp

At Jr. Boss Academy, participants collaborate with experienced entrepreneurs and follow a meticulously designed curriculum to refine their business skills. Covering all facets of entrepreneurship, the courses ensure that graduating young entrepreneurs are well-prepared to manage their ventures effectively.

Program Benefits

Increased visibility and recognition for the young entrepreneurs through our wide-reaching social media platforms. 

Access to valuable entrepreneurial mentoring to assist with the development and growth of their ventures. 

Course curriculum which educates on how to build sustinainable business with visibility to financial, operation and marketing strategies.

Networking opportunities with other young entrepreneurs and experienced professionals within the NuJourney Foundation Inc. community. 

We look forward to witnessing the incredible achievements and success stories that will emerge from this program. Stay tuned for updates on our website and social media channels. Thank you for joining us in supporting these amazing young people!

At only 13 years old, Gabrielle Starkes is a remarkable young talent making waves in both her academic endeavors and entrepreneurial pursuits. A 6th grader with a passion for music, Gabrielle impressively plays four instruments - the clarinet, saxophone, oboe, and guitar. Describing herself as silly, kind, and smart, she also finds joy in activities such as theatre, reading, crocheting, and watching anime.

Not content with just excelling in academics and music, Gabrielle is the founder of GO Bubbles, a body care line tailored for children aged 3-13. Inspired by her mother's work in creating adult skincare products, Gabrielle sought to develop sustainable, earth-friendly products that cater to kids with dry skin and eczema. Her product line includes plant-based body wash, vegan body cream, beeswax lip balm, among others in fun colors and with delicious smells.

Balancing her school commitments with her budding business. During weekdays she is focused on schoolwork and student activities, but the weekends are reserved for her business.

Gabrielle is resolute in her determination to expand Go Bubbles into retail stores. Additionally, she is a published author, having written two books - "Gabrielle and the Magic Tree" and an accompanying coloring and activity book that she too hopes will adorn shelves in retail stores soon.

Guided by the support of her parents, Gabrielle views them as her role models, motivating her to pursue her dreams with dedication and drive. With a strong foundation in both her academic and entrepreneurial pursuits, Gabrielle S. is undoubtedly a young talent to watch as she continues to inspire and thrive in her endeavors.

Her future focus includes starting a non-profit organization and writing another book, while simultaneously nurturing the growth of GO Bubbles. She stays motivated by listening to music and maintaining a strong belief in herself. Her advice to young people, "Just Do It! You are never too young to start."

Presenting our Jr. Boss of the Month, Ms. Gabrielle Starkes Let's join in congratulating her on her achievements.

Website: https://gobubblessoap.com/

Ms. Mkeedah Mcleod, an 8th-grade student at Liberated Minds Homeschool. Mkeedah, described as kind, extroverted, and “chill,” is making waves in the vegan treat market with her innovative concepts. At just 9 years old, Mkeedah discovered her passion for baking, leading her to establish her business, Mkeedah’s Desserts and Vegan Treats, in 2020. Her delectable vegan cookies, cakes, and cupcakes have been capturing hearts ever since.

Mkeedah's calm demeanor allows her to balance school responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and her business endeavors effortlessly. She manages her passions for dancing, painting, and entrepreneurship through effective time management and prioritization, which she considers crucial for achieving her goals. In moments of reflection, Mkeedah turns to meditation and music for tranquility, ensuring she stays focused and driven toward her aspirations.

In the culinary world, Mkeedah is carving out her own path with her vegan baked goods. Recalling her journey, she emphasizes the impact of entrepreneurship on her personal growth, stating, "Being an entrepreneur has enabled me to broaden my social circle, enhance my confidence, and foster responsibility. I attribute all my success to my mentor and role model, my mother, Tiffany Mcleod, whose unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in my entrepreneurial journey."

Despite entrepreneurial challenges, Mkeedah stays motivated by envisioning the bright future that lies ahead. Her advice to fellow young entrepreneurs is to have patience, ask questions, and exude confidence, just know “You got this.” With aspirations to shift to baking in a commissary kitchen and eventually open her own bakery, Mkeedah is a young entrepreneur with big dreams. Mkeedah is no doubt a Jr. Boss on the rise.

Please follow her and support her business:

www.mvegantreat.com

Instagram @mvegantreats

Jordin Thompson, a senior biology major at FAMU (Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University), has not only pursued her passion for medicine but has also opened herself to entrepreneurship. Jordin is a young, driven individual who describes herself as creative, sweet, and humble. Over a year ago, she embarked on a remarkable journey by founding her own company, Two Angels in Medicine. She was prompted to start this venture when she noticed the lack of diverse representation while searching for school supplies for her medical profession. Her initial creation of notebooks gradually evolved into a diverse range of products including backpacks, lunch bags, totes, tumblers, and more. Jordin's products specifically showcase black and brown girls in various professional roles, promoting her powerful message of empowerment and encouragement for the younger generation to pursue their dreams, regardless of societal barriers. As she gears up for med school to realize her dream of becoming a doctor, Jordin remains passionately driven by the underrepresentation of diversity in the medical field.

Her mission extends beyond entrepreneurship, as she actively donates a portion of the proceeds to organizations dedicated to supporting young girls' success. Despite her demanding academic commitments, Jordin remains resolute in her dedication to her business. Her ambitious goal is to see her products on retail shelves by the end of the year. She attributes her entrepreneurial journey to her two angels, her grandmothers. She is also supported by her mentor, Dr. Trisha Bailey, whom she deeply admires and who continues to be her biggest advocate.

NuJourney proudly extends its congratulations to Jordin and is honored to partner with her in support of her inspiring mission. For those who wish to lend their support, Jordin’s website offers an opportunity to become a part of her vision for a more inclusive and diverse future. Her message to fellow young entrepreneurs is powerful: Always put forth 100% of your effort in everything you do. Her commitment to her purpose makes her a true Jr. Boss and her journey symbolizes resilience, determination, and a dedication to effecting positive change.

Jordin Thompson exemplifies the embodiment of a new wave of enterprising individuals with a profound sense of purpose, and her steadfast commitment to pioneering a new narrative in the medical field is truly commendable.

Sumer Strawbree, is no novice in the world of entrepreneurship, at just 14 years of age she is making waves. This determined young woman is already a force to be reckoned with in the national spotlight. Embracing her identity as a Black, Brown, Beautiful girl, Sumer has authored four books and established her own company, Sumer Strawbree Publishing, LLC, along with I AM CONFIDENT University. Her primary focus is on spreading positivity and self-confidence among young girls, particularly those from similar cultural backgrounds.

Motivated by her own experiences with bullying, Sumer's books are filled with affirmations aimed at bolstering the confidence of Black and Brown girls. With unconditional support from her role model and father, she overcame feelings of powerlessness and reclaimed her authenticity. As a result, she has become an advocate for self-love and empowerment.

Sumer's influence extends beyond the pages of her books. She has appeared on various local and national TV shows, including "The Kelly Clarkson Show," to promote her initiatives via coloring books, affirmation cards, journals, and T-shirts. Additionally, she has taken the stage as a speaker, inspiring and empowering over 10,000 girls to date.

Despite encountering negative messages, Sumer remains steadfast in her mission to overcome adversity. Drawing from her own advice, she harnesses negative experiences to create something positive, aiming to connect with others who can relate and provide support.

Expanding her reach even further, Sumer recently released a rap song and music video titled "Black, Brown & Beautiful," showcasing her various talents. Through her entrepreneurial journey, she has gained firsthand insight into the nuisances of running a business and has formed meaningful connections with girls and women in need of her products.

Sumer's relentless drive and dedication have earned her the title of Jr. Boss, and she shows no signs of slowing down. To support her endeavors, visit her website and join us in celebrating this remarkable young entrepreneur's achievements.

Ms. Jaraya Burns - a true BOSS in every sense! Currently an 11th-grade student, Jaraya is paving her path as a loctician and exudes qualities of being outgoing, patient, and extraordinarily determined. At just 17 years old, Jaraya has crystal-clear goals in mind. Balancing her schedule, she attends school three days a week, reserving the remaining days for her passion for hairstyling.

Fueled by the drive to be an entrepreneur at such a young age, Jaraya's vision extends beyond personal success. Her overarching goal is to establish a salon where she can provide employment opportunities for her peers, empowering them to pursue their dreams in the realm of hairstyling. When asked about the source of her strength and perseverance, Jaraya acknowledges her unwavering support system, giving credit to her mom, dad, and faith in God.

In times of challenge, Jaraya attests that her strong prayer life has been instrumental in overcoming obstacles. Her message to fellow aspiring youth entrepreneurs is one of perseverance and conviction - to remain consistent and steadfast in their abilities. Jaraya, a Junior Boss, embodies an infectious smile and a future poised for undeniable success.

At NuJourney, we are committed to mentoring and providing support to Jaraya as she reaches for the stars. Let's join in congratulating our remarkable Jr. Boss Ms. Jaraya Burns. We urge you to support this young trailblazer as she continues on her remarkable journey.

Questions?

  • Any young adult ages 8-21 living in the United States.

  • Yes, please send an email to info@nujourneyfoundation.org.

  • The spotlight feature allows NuJourney to create a press release for you and your business and promote it across our social media platforms. There is no fee or compensation associated with the feature.

    Our academy offers a full-fledged educational curriculum that provides learning opportunities on branding, financial management, operational strategies, business plans, etc. This is a Multi-week course and requires commitment to graduate from the academy. There is a $75 fee to participate in the academy. All course materials are provided prior to the course start date.

  • The courses are held virtually, but we do have some in-person opportunities for those who are local to metro area.

  • No, because our academy can be conducted online, there is no requirement to live in the area.

  • Currently, our academy is offered twice a year.

  • Yes, because we want each particpant to maximize their learning experience; we do limit the number of participants in the academy.