Yesterday, I had the incredible opportunity to speak with elementary and middle school students at Master Chang's Martial Arts Studio in Raleigh about something truly close to my heart: servant leadership. As the Co founder of NEX GEN CEO, I love inspiring students to see problems as opportunities and to become impact makers and problem solvers.
I started my journey into business when I was only eight years old. I remember the day vividly—I had a passion for baking cookies and a big heart for helping others. Instead of just selling my cookies for pocket money, I decided to use my profits to help fund an orphanage in Haiti. This small act of kindness and entrepreneurship was the seed that grew into my lifelong commitment to making a difference through business.
I loved reading them my Children’s book, “You Can Change the World,” because it’s a true story and the message impacts. During our discussion, I shared this story to show students that you don't need to be an adult to start making an impact. We explored the idea that each of us has unique talents and abilities that can be used to start a business and become a force for good in the world.
Discovering Your Talents and Making a Difference
We brainstormed together, and it was amazing to hear the students' ideas and aspirations. Some students were talented artists, others loved coding, and a few were passionate about sports. We discussed how these interests could be turned into entrepreneurial ventures. Here are a few ideas we came up with:
1. Art and Crafts: Create and sell handmade crafts or artwork, with a portion of the profits going to local charities or community projects.
2. Technology: Develop apps or websites that solve a specific problem in your community, such as helping local businesses connect with customers.
3. Sports and Fitness: Organize sports clinics or fitness classes for younger kids, with proceeds supporting youth programs or sports equipment donations.
Be an Impact Maker and Problem Solver
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is seeing students realize that they have the power to make a difference. It's about seeing problems not as obstacles, but as opportunities to innovate and create solutions.
Three Steps to be an Impact Maker:
1.) See a Need: Look around your community and see where there is a need or a problem that you are passionate about solving.
2.) Use Your Talents: Leverage your unique skills and interests to address that need. This is how I started my business.
3.) Take the Lead: Don’t wait for someone else to make the first move. Start small, learn as you go, and grow your impact over time.
Why I Love Inspiring Students
Inspiring students to be Impact Makers and problem solvers is not just a job for me—it's a passion. I believe in the incredible potential of young people to create positive change. Your energy, creativity, and willingness to take risks are exactly what the world needs right now.
To all the students I spoke with yesterday, and to those reading this blog post, remember this: You have the power to make a difference. Whether it's through starting a small business, leading a community project, or simply helping out a friend in need, every action counts. Use your talents, be bold, and never underestimate the impact you can have.
Thank you for letting me share my journey with you. I can't wait to see the amazing things you'll achieve! Please subscribe and follow us on Instagram to stay connected with upcoming events, club meetings, and student business fairs!
Stay inspired,
Kaylee Stavlas
Miss North Carolina Teen USA 2024
#nexgenceoclub #impactmakers #nextgenerationarising #servantleadership #studententrepreneurs #missncteenusa #kayleestavlas #nextgenerationentrepreneurshipday
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