Muffins with Mom – Youth entrepreneurs



Youth entrepreneur - Janese

Did the Groundhog see his shadow? Yes and as the folklore goes, the prediction is six more weeks of winter. How does this relate to entrepreneurship? I’m glad you asked. Many entrepreneurs and small business owners in the town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania saw a peak in sales on Groundhog’s Day. They took advantage of an ideal opportunity.

I believe in the saying, “when opportunity knocks...” This is the same thing I have told my children. My son applied this concept a few years ago when he and a friend began a snow removal business. They had a couple of snow days with no school and “nothing to do” (their words).

After a breakfast of pancakes, eggs and bacon, sprinkled with a little encouragement; my son and his friend began their business. Their overhead costs were low...two shovels. Last year after acquiring a snow blower, I had to charge them for gas. Well, I didn’t have to, but I wanted them to learn a little about business.

Instead of paying FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act), they had to pay MICA (Mama Insured Contributions Act). Their contribution was only a couple of dollars, but the lesson was priceless.

Recently, I had the opportunity to meet 11 year old Janese who has started a business selling bracelets. She sells those rubber band type bracelets that are popular with youth and teens.

Janese took advantage of an opportunity. Her mom was attending a Saturday morning meeting, so Janese came along and brought her product. She could have easily stayed warm at home on that snowy Michigan morning.

The handcrafted bracelets were colorful and beautifully displayed. She was set up in a location that attracted people as they entered the facility. I have to say I was attracted to the nylon gift bags that also came with the purchase. I bought one.

I conducted an impromptu interview with Janese:

Me:                  How did you learn to make the bracelets that you sell?

Janese:            I watched videos on YouTube over and over, then I practiced.

Me:                  Where do you sell your bracelets?
Janese:            I have participated in one craft show so far. I’m also trying to persuade my mom to let me get an email and YouTube account.

Me:                  What will you do with the money you make?
Janese:            I want to earn enough money to buy and IPOD3 and purchase music.

Me:                  Why are you so determined to have an IPOD?
Janese:            I like singing and would like to eventually have a singing career. My cousins tell me I’m always humming. I also play Percussion and Viola at school.

 It was inspiring to hear and see the ambition that Janese displayed. If you’d like to purchase a bracelet from Janese you can do so by contacting her mom (Trakia) by email at jtmbennett@gmail.com.

 What stories of a youth entrepreneur do you have to share?