Club supports young entrepreneurs

The Johnston County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has selected the 2012-2013 Young Entrepreneur class. Twelve students from Johnston County high schools have been selected to participate in the program. They are Evenny Alford, Shakeema Benson, Lizz Lynn and Carrington Vinson from Smithfield Selma High School; Tierra Bass, Cleveland High School, Shakeena Benson, Johnston Community College, Kara Walden, Princeton High School, Kenan Walden, Johnston Community College Early College, and Larry Lavell Williams, Clayton High School.

According to chapter spokeswoman Shirley W. Kelly, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. initiated the Young Entrepreneur program in 2011. High school students 14-19-years-old are eligible to participate in the program. There is no cost for participation and all program materials are provided.

The Junior Achievement curriculum “Be Entrepreneurial” is the primary model guiding the implementation of the group’s Young Entrepreneurs program, according to Kelly. She says the Young Entrepreneurs program coaches and trains high school students to be the next generation of entrepreneurs. Students are introduced to self employment as a career option.

Participants learn fundamental business and economic concepts, and explore career interests and opportunities. The program nurtures the creativity, self-confidence, leadership and overall development of the students, according to Evelyn Sanders, the sorority’s economic development chairwoman. Sanders also says chapter members and community business leaders provide support and mentoring for up to two years following graduation from the program. Each participant will have a legally incorporated business at the completion of the program.

The program concludes with a business plan competition. And a Young Entrepreneur of the Year is recognized at the chapter’s anniversary celebration set for April 14. The winner receives a scholarship, cash prizes and technical resources to support their business.