A feature of the 2010 Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference is the Teenpreneurs Conference, a 2-day entrepreneurial education program targeting youth ages 13-17, also celebrating its 15th year. Motivational speaker and life coach Lisa Nichols talks to the Teenpreneurs about dreams and aspirations—something every aspiring and established entrepreneur needs to have to be successful. Nichols was one of several Entrepreneurs Conference speakers, including Shane Ward and Shawn Ward of SHANE&SHAWN Shoes, to take time to also address the students. (All Photos by Lonnie Major)more
Future entrepreneurs and businessmen learning the critical skills needed to be an entrepreneur, including how to read a cash flow statement, a balance sheet, and an income statement. The Teenpreneur Conference has been hosted by Wendy's International each year since it was established 15 years ago.more
Among the lessons the Teenpreneurs learned was how to be a good public speaker and how to create an effective elevator pitch. More than 1,500 youth have experienced the Black Enterprise Teenpreneur Conference since its inception in 1995.more
Teenpreneurs also learned how to estimate variable and fixed costs, and how to estimate profit when creating a basic business plan.
The Teenpreneurs were taught to set S.M.A.R.T. goals—Specific, Measurable, Appropriate, Realistic goals with an established Timeline.more
These young people got tips on how to be successful at a first job.
An explanation of what taxes are taken out of a paycheck was given as well. Not surprisingly, finding out about FICA and other tax deductions for the first time is never a pleasant experience.more
Jasiel Robinson, better known as the Atlanta rapper Yung Joc, shares his entrepreneurial experiences as the owner of Import Rentals, a luxury car rental business, as well as his record label, Swagg Team Entertainment.more
Atlanta rapper Yung Joc poses with Teenpreneur Conference attendees after addressing the class.
Teenpreneur instructor Carrie McIndoe (center) gives a lesson on credit card usage, debt, and how to build a good credit score.
One of the critical skills the Teenpreneurs learned was how to network; how to gather information that may lead to a business opportunity.
Being an active listener is key to making professional connections. Teenpreneurs learned how eye contact and body language play a large part in communicating effectively.