After the success of last year’s inaugural joint program, Future Founders just wrapped another exciting partnership with the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) – offering a highly-customized version of our popular Be Your Own Boss (BYOB) high school internship. Packed with 120 hours of programming, the Future Founders Be Your Own Boss Internship powered by CHA is designed to introduce underestimated youth from across Chicago to entrepreneurship in a way that is both practical and inspiring.
The BYOB program wasn’t just about learning in a classroom; it was about experiencing the city in new and exciting ways. Future Founders believes that the best entrepreneurs take inspiration from the world around them, and from day one, students were immersed in Chicago’s rich culture and history.
At the American Writers Museum, students explored the works of Chicago’s literary giants, gaining insights that would help shape their own creative ideas. And at the WNDR Museum, they were treated to an interactive experience that left them inspired and invigorated by the understanding of what is truly possible in the world.
These outings offered to the BYOB interns weren’t just field trips; they were experiences that broadened their horizons and fueled their ambitions.
Central to the BYOB program was its focus on hands-on learning. During a visit to the Chicago Headquarters of Fetch, a long-time partner of Future Founders, students toured the office, engaged with professionals during a panel discussion, and practiced their interview skills. These activities were designed to give them a taste of the real world, helping them build the confidence and skills they’ll need in their future careers.
Another standout moment was the “Dream Big” workshop led by Nina Addison of Nina Motives LLC. Through a series of exercises and discussions, students were encouraged to think boldly about their futures, setting goals and developing action plans to achieve them. The workshop left a lasting impression, showing students that their dreams, no matter how ambitious, are within reach.
Students were also able to learn all about social media and what it takes to go viral from Imran Nuri, artist, storyteller, motivational speaker, and Future Founders Fellowship alum. With over 7 million likes on TikTok and nearly half a million followers across his social channels, Imran shared a bit about how he was able to achieve such a massive following, and how students can treat social media as a tool rather than a distraction.
While there are many transformative experiences during the Be Your Own Boss program, the highlight is always Pitch Day, where students pitch business ideas they’ve refined over the course of the program to a panel of esteemed judges. Ultimately one team was declared the overall winner for best pitch, and another was awarded the People’s Choice winner based on a vote held among students’ family, friends, and community members.
SecureSync: an innovative app that helps small businesses connect with social media influencers.
Tranquil Minds: a tool designed to help students get the resources they need to maintain mental health and wellness.
The success of the BYOB program is reflected in both the data and the personal stories of the students. Nearly 95% of participants said they could envision themselves as entrepreneurs after completing the program, and 100% felt that the experience made them believe in their entrepreneurial potential.
Beyond the numbers, the personal reflections of the students speak volumes. For example, Aziyah Griffin learned the importance of perseverance, while Morgan Neuman came to value the role of preparation and resilience in the face of failure. These lessons, gained through experience, will serve them well as they move forward in their educational and professional journeys.
“We are thrilled to have partnered with the Chicago Housing Authority once again to deliver such an eventful, impactful program,” said Scott Issen, President & CEO, Future Founders. “Our shared commitment to empowering our city’s youth provides a foundation upon which we have built one of the most impactful programs in our organization’s history. We look forward to future partnerships and all the good we can do in Chicago by working together.”
The achievements of this year’s cohort were made possible by the support of a dedicated community of volunteers. Professionals from companies like Fetch and Nasdaq, as well as former participants of Future Founders programs, offered their time and expertise to mentor the students. Their involvement was crucial, providing the guidance and encouragement that helped these young entrepreneurs develop their ideas and refine their skills.
We’re incredibly grateful to the Chicago Housing Authority, Nasdaq, Fetch, and all the incredible volunteers who helped make this program possible, including:
As we look back on the success of the 2024 BYOB program, it’s clear that the partnership between Future Founders and CHA is making a lasting impact on the lives of Chicago’s youth. By providing them with the tools, experiences, and support to explore entrepreneurship, we’re helping to shape the next generation of innovators and leaders.
The journey doesn’t end here. These students, with their newfound skills and confidence, are just beginning to explore their potential. We’re excited to see where their entrepreneurial paths will take them and are proud to have been a part of their journey.
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