What an incredible day at the 2024 Hopeworks Pitch Competition!
We started with an inspiring alumni panel, where Natalie Nieves, Caloua Lowe, Anthony Cole, and Jared Bradshaw shared their experiences as entrepreneurs and the valuable lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Next, six local young entrepreneurs took the stage to pitch their small businesses to a panel of judges.
Congratulations to Yasmine Abdou (The Devils Within Art), our 1st place winner, and Kamiah Gray (Klever Odds & Ends), who earned 2nd place and the Audience Choice Award. Your dedication and hard work were inspiring! A grand total of $8,000 was awarded in cash prizes to our six pitchers.
The day wrapped up with a holiday bazaar featuring over 20 local vendors, where the community came together to shop and support small businesses.
A huge thank you to our judges— Felicia Rinier, Scott Bentley, Ryan T., Wil Reynolds, and Natalie Nieves—and to our sponsors — Block, Citizens, WASSERMAN PROPERTIES LLC, and Primepoint HR & Payroll making this event possible and investing in local entrepreneurs.
Special thanks to Brad Aronson, whose guidance and dedication through our entrepreneurship program ensures our young entrepreneurs are ready to shine on such an important stage.
This year’s competition was our biggest yet—a true celebration of community and the power of local entrepreneurs.
Yasmine's Business: https://lnkd.in/erj_at6c
Kamiah's Business: https://lnkd.in/eNQpa8tP
Gus’s Business: https://www.instagram.com/gus.with.a.camera/
Christian’s Business: https://www.instagram.com/chase215__/
Dalia’s Business: https://www.linkedin.com/in/migdalia-olavarria-869236302/
Destine’s Business: https://www.linkedin.com/in/destine-penn-b01172309/
Helping disadvantaged young adults in the U.S. to overcome barriers to economic opportunity and secured sustained long-term employment Hopeworks was founded in New Jersey in 1999 to help young adults overcome barriers to economic opportunity and build sustainable futures. Most participants do not have college degrees, and 99% of them are unemployed when they join […]
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Check out our Camden office full of energy, creativity, and hustle at our Pop-Up Shop Lunch Event! Our incredible young adults showcased and sold their original art, handmade jewelry, delicious food desserts, and so much more. From eye-catching booths to mouthwatering treats, every table told a story of passion, talent, and entrepreneurship. Proud to support […]
