Photos: Facebook
Queens, NY – September 2024 – The YOUTHpreneur Summit, held on Saturday, September 21, at York College in Queens, brought together over 150 local teens for an inspiring day of learning, networking, and entrepreneurship. Organized in partnership with Councilmember Dr. Nantasha Williams and presented by Resorts World New York City and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW), the summit provided a dynamic platform for young innovators to explore different career paths, develop financial literacy skills, and pitch their own business ideas for a chance to win cash prizes.
The summit featured:
- Breakout Sessions/Workshops on branding, financial literacy, and business development, led by professionals.
- Panel Discussions with a panel of industry professionals who shared valuable insights into their fields.
- A Pitch Competition, where aspiring entrepreneurs showcased their innovative business ideas. A total of eight winners were announced, with up to $10,000 awarded to support their ventures.
Councilmember Dr. Nantasha Williams, a co-sponsor of the event, stated, “I am honored to co-sponsor the YOUTHpreneur Summit with Showing Hearts Foundation! This incredible event brought together young innovators, inspiring them to pursue their passions and explore new career paths. From insightful industry panels to the exciting pitch competition, where participants showcased their business ideas for a chance to win cash prizes and scholarships, the summit continues to be a powerful platform for our youth to thrive. It’s initiatives like these that help shape the next generation of leaders, and I’m proud to support programs that empower our young people to dream big and achieve more.”
State Senator Leroy Comrie added, “Empowering our youth is essential for the future of our community. The YOUTHpreneur Summit is a remarkable initiative that encourages creativity and entrepreneurship, providing our young people with the tools they need to succeed.”
Matthew Anatalio, Resorts World’s Community Development Manager, remarked, “The YOUTHpreneur Summit was a true testament to the power of education and opportunity. The Showing Hearts Foundation has created an incredible platform for young people to dream big and think bold. Being part of this summit reminded me that innovation knows no age limit, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an amazing event.”
“The hard work and dedication of the students at the YOUTHpreneur Summit is incredibly inspiring and we are proud to help empower the next generation of entrepreneurs,” said Rich Singer, URW Director, Marketing JFK. “The work of The Showing Hearts Foundation provides vital opportunities for local youth to develop the skills, leadership, and vision needed to shape the future. We are honored to support these young adults and committed to fostering the growth of future airport leaders through these impactful initiatives.”
Marcy Duvert, Youthpreneur Program Director, commented, “Today’s summit showcased the incredible talent and potential within our community. We are thrilled to witness the passion and drive of these young go-getters, and we are committed to supporting them as they turn their dreams into reality.”
The YOUTHpreneur Summit successfully provided a platform for Queens teens to connect, learn, and grow as future leaders in their communities.
For more information about the YOUTHpreneur Summit and upcoming initiatives, please visit www.showinghearts.org.
