Newark YEA! Completes its Fourth Year

Recently, the Newark Young Entrepreneurs Academy (Newark YEA!) Class of 2019 participated in the fourth annual Investor Panel at Rutgers Business School. This year's program participants, representing nine middle and high schools in Newark, pitched their business ideas to a panel of investors during a Shark-Tank style competition. Every young entrepreneur who presented was awarded funding that will enable her/him to bring their business to life. Among this year's business were a stationery brand, photography/videography company, cupcake company, and a makeup artistry company.

​Newark YEA! is excited to announce that Emmanuel Ogbonnaya, a Senior at Weequahic High School in Newark and founder/owner of the photo/video company King's Likeness, will represent the program at this year's Saunders Scholars competition in Rochester, NY.

This year's young entrepreneurs enjoyed the shared learning experience of the program and Investor's Panel. Below are some of their reflections:

"I was nervous during the presentation but enjoyed the thrill of working through my nerves. It was a great experience that provided me with practice for future presentations” – Emmanuel Ogbonnaya, Founder/Owner, King's Likeness

“My experience in the Investor’s Panel was really eye opening. It gave me a chance to connect with business owners and learn new things. I felt very welcomed and like I was treated like family.” – Rizyah Guy, True Lenses

“The Investor’s Panel, I believe, was so important to the entire program because it’s easy to explain yourself and your business in front of your peers, but when faced with people who can make your dream company into reality and sell yourself within 5 minutes it truly gives you the sensation of being an official entrepreneur. ” – Mirleen Dameus, For Everyone

“The Investor’s Panel was a good experience. I feel that we were well prepared for it." – Khalif Bey, Sweet Melanin Apparel 

Newark YEA! students with Emily Manz, Program Manager, and their business mentors.