Entrepreneurs toWatch
Introducing the Junior Aces Class of 2021
PAIGE KOCOUREK
West Virginia is full of focused , driven and passionate individuals of all ages . It ’ s no question , however , that youth are our nation ’ s future . While we acknowledge the immense value all business owners contribute to our communities , West Virginia Executive ( WVE ) magazine wants to do its part to recognize young entrepreneurial minds as one of the Mountain State ’ s greatest natural resources . That is why WVE created the Junior Aces awards program : to encourage everyone , not just youth , to see the ingenuity of West Virginians , take pride in the state ’ s young people and honor them and their efforts . In this inaugural class , three impressive individuals have been selected as Junior Aces .
These notable innovators drive West Virginia forward through their unique business ideas and service to their communities and represent three unique industries : food , jewelry and farming . They balance acquiring an education with maintaining a successful business . Hard work and dedication barely begin to describe the award recipients .
Thanks to the many nominations and strict criteria candidates must meet , WVE ’ s first class of Junior Aces is comprised of exceptional young people . Nominees must be 9th , 10th and 11th graders who live in West Virginia , have owned and operated a business for at least one year and are service-oriented in their community . These impressive adolescent entrepreneurs have showcased leadership and are a model of excellence for those around them .
The honorees will be awarded full scholarships to the Youth Leadership Association Teen Entrepreneurship Summit where they can hone their business skills and further their impact on the Mountain State . WVE is proud to present the Junior Aces Class of 2021 . If you know a young , service-oriented entrepreneur who is making an impact in their community , nominate them for next year ’ s Junior Aces class . Nominations are accepted year-round and can be submitted at www . wvexecutive . com / junior-aces . •
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE