At Future Founders, we believe in the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives, especially for young people who face obstacles on their journey to success. One of the most inspiring examples of this is Tajnia Fisher, a member of our 2024 Be Your Own Boss (BYOB) Cohort, run in partnership with the Chicago Housing Authority. Through her participation in the program, Tajnia not only honed entrepreneurial skills but also gained the confidence to pursue her dream of one day opening her own hair salon.
Programs like Be Your Own Boss are designed to equip underserved youth with the 21st-century skills needed to thrive in an increasingly entrepreneurial world. By blending practical education with personal mentorship, our goal is to provide a holistic experience that inspires our participants to dream big and stay motivated. Tajnia’s journey is a testament to the power of this program and the lasting impact it can have on young people from all walks of life.
When we asked Tajnia about her favorite part of participating in Future Founders, her answer was both heartfelt and illuminating: “My favorite thing about participating in Future Founders was that it’s going to help me with my future self. It’s going to help me get jobs, learn how to stay motivated, and get through challenges.”
This response speaks volumes about what Future Founders aims to achieve. Entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting a business; it’s about cultivating a mindset of perseverance, creativity, and resilience—skills that can be applied in every aspect of life. The ability to face challenges head-on, armed with the knowledge and motivation to succeed, is one of the greatest gifts we can offer our participants. Tajnia’s reflection on staying motivated, especially when times get tough, highlights the significance of building a strong internal foundation for future success.
One of the key takeaways Tajnia emphasized was that the Future Founders program is far from a one-dimensional experience. “It’s not only a program that helps with people who want a business; it helps with people who want many types of other businesses. And it also helps with people’s futures and makes very big impacts,” she explained.
This insight underscores the multifaceted nature of our Be Your Own Boss program. While we do focus on teaching entrepreneurial skills, we are equally dedicated to personal growth and future planning. Whether our participants want to become business owners or pursue other professional paths, our aim is to give them the tools to succeed. By broadening their perspectives and helping them realize that entrepreneurship can be a vehicle for any career, we ensure that the lessons learned extend well beyond the boundaries of business.
For many of our participants, the dream of starting a business is more than just a distant idea—it’s a tangible goal. Tajnia’s dream of opening her own hair salon is a perfect example. When asked about her future business aspirations, she confidently stated: “Yes, I would love to open my own business. One day, I do realize that it would take time, but my business will be about hair. I will have my own salon brand, investors, flash sales, and everything when it comes to my business.”
This vision is a powerful reminder of the potential within every young person. With the right guidance, mentorship, and practical tools, dreams that once seemed out of reach can become achievable. Future Founders plays a pivotal role in helping young entrepreneurs like Tajnia map out their path toward success. Whether through developing business plans, understanding the importance of investment, or learning how to market products and services, our programs lay the groundwork for their future endeavors.
One of the most rewarding aspects of working with young people is seeing them become advocates for the programs that have helped them. Tajnia’s message to her peers is simple but profound: “I will tell [my friend] that it is a very good opportunity. It’s a very chill, motivating program, and it will help with a lot of things.”
This kind of genuine endorsement from past participants is invaluable. When a program like Be Your Own Boss leaves such a positive impact, it becomes a catalyst for change within communities. Encouraging others to join not only helps individuals grow but also strengthens the collective power of young people who are eager to break through barriers and create a better future for themselves.
Tajnia’s journey is just one example of the many lives Future Founders has touched. The Be Your Own Boss program, in partnership with the Chicago Housing Authority, was specifically designed to empower youth from underserved areas, providing them with the skills and confidence to build their own paths. Participants not only receive entrepreneurial education but also life skills that allow them to thrive in any career they choose.
Programs like BYOB address a critical need: leveling the playing field for young people who have the talent and drive but may lack the resources and support systems to achieve their dreams. By fostering creativity, resilience, and leadership, Future Founders is helping shape the next generation of innovators and change-makers.
Tajnia Fisher’s experience in the Future Founders Be Your Own Boss program is a shining example of the impact our organization can have on young lives. From learning how to stay motivated and overcome challenges to dreaming of a future as a successful salon owner, Tajnia’s journey reflects the heart of what Future Founders aims to achieve: inspiring and empowering young people to take control of their futures.
At Future Founders, we don’t just teach entrepreneurship—we help build confidence, resilience, and a sense of possibility. Tajnia’s story is just one of many, and we are incredibly proud of the lasting impact we’ve made. As we continue to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs, we know that their dreams are what will shape the future, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for Tajnia and others like her.
Ready to get involved? Join our newsletter for updates
Δ