An aspiring young entrepreneur gains the knowledge, experience, and confidence to aim for the stars.
An aspiring entrepreneur, Michael Ware entered his sophomore year of college at Clark Atlanta University feeling both excited and nervous. The financial burden of tuition and cost of living in Atlanta threatened to drive his fledgling dreams out of reach. But a cousin introduced him to the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, and now Michael regards the sky as his limit. Of all the programs he explored at the League, the Young CEOs captured his interest most.
Along with his major in business administration, Michael saw Young CEOs as the perfect opportunity to acquire the knowledge, connections, and hands-on experience to run his own business. In the program, a 12-week entrepreneur course for youth and young adults aged 16-24, he tapped into services that directly contributed to his personal and professional growth.
The program offers entrepreneurial mentorship, business strategy, leadership, and tips on navigating the startup landscape. Michael also took financial literacy workshops and plugged into a network of like-minded peers and industry professionals, making the kinds of lasting connections that are essential for a future entrepreneur. He came in second in the program’s pitch contest and won $1,000.
“I joined the Young CEOs program at age 19, knowing I wanted to own a business, but I lacked structure. Adjusting to life in Atlanta and managing my responsibilities as a student at Clark Atlanta University made it even more challenging to focus on how I wanted to achieve my goals,” Michael said.
“When I connected with the Urban League, I was looking for scholarship opportunities, but I found so much more. I developed communication skills, built strong connections with both peers and mentors, and learned how to explain my entrepreneurial vision.”
In the early stages of development, Michael secured product samples and registered his business in the state of Georgia. With a newfound confidence and self-assurance, he also applied for and earned multiple academic scholarships and internships, including participating in Disney on the Yard, a summer mentorship and professional development program offered by The Walt Disney Company.
“This journey has not only shaped my entrepreneurial mindset but also positioned me for multiple opportunities such as internships. I am excited to grow further and continue developing as a leader in my field,” Michael said. “I want to use what I’ve learned to build LEGACY, helping to inspire and create opportunities for underrepresented teens in inner city communities. The Young CEOs program has given me the foundation, network, and confidence to make that vision a reality.
