Southern University witnessed an electrifying start to its spring semester with the kickoff of JOLTcon, a two-part conference series aimed at nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit among the youth. On Saturday, March 23rd, the campus was abuzz with excitement as teens aged 12-18 gathered to embark on a journey of innovation, creativity, and business development.
This semester's theme, "Creating NextGen Innovators," resonated through the corridors as eager participants delved into workshops and sessions focused on harnessing technology, exploring the realms of creative arts, and honing essential business skills. The first event offered a comprehensive platform for teens to delve into the intricacies of entrepreneurship under the guidance of seasoned professionals and mentors.
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for young minds to delve into the realm of business development, preparing them to pitch their innovative concepts at the upcoming competition event slated for April 27th. With a $500 cash prize up for grabs, the stakes were high, fueling the enthusiasm of the participants to craft compelling business proposals and showcase their entrepreneurial prowess.
"I came today because I have a new business, and I want to see it grow. This event had many great workshops that helped me see the full vision," remarked one of the participants, highlighting the essence of JOLTcon in fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among today's youth.
The event witnessed an impressive turnout, with 77 teens actively participating in workshops aimed at instilling essential skills such as crafting persuasive business pitches, transforming ideas into viable business plans, and navigating the intricacies of branding and marketing. Guest instructors, including renowned names like Orhan McMillan, Blaine Smith of LSBDC, and Kirsten Roberson of KRO Management, lent their expertise, enriching the learning experience for the attendees.
A testament to the community's commitment to nurturing young talent, JOLTcon garnered support from esteemed sponsors including Louisiana Healthcare Connections, NexusLA, Huey & Angelina Wilson Foundation, Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana, Sparkhound, Baton Rouge Alliance for Students, New Schools for Baton Rouge, Kuvare and Southern University, along with generous contributions from individuals passionate about fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
With the groundwork laid at the inaugural event, anticipation brews for the upcoming competition event in April, where budding entrepreneurs will showcase their ingenuity and vie for the coveted cash prize. As JOLTcon continues to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators, it serves as a beacon of hope for a future brimming with creativity, resilience, and limitless possibilities.