The ACE Project, which is located in Louisville, has recently witnessed a remarkable transformation among a group of young individuals as they delved into the realm of business. Over 14 students, all affected in some way by gun violence, have successfully completed the Academy of Child Entrepreneurship Course and have commenced their own entrepreneurial endeavours.

One such student, Jayme Angton, has initiated her own business, ‘All Things Girls’, at a mere 14 years of age. “I create a variety of jewellery,” Angton proudly shared. She further explained, “Primarily, I design a range of women’s jewellery, and this year I have expanded into selling men’s jewellery. I have launched a new collection called ‘All Things Men’ this year, and I also offer tutus for sale.”

The seven-month programme that Angton and her peers underwent equipped them with indispensable business knowledge, financial skills, and the expertise necessary for crafting a comprehensive business plan. “It’s quite challenging; a considerable amount of planning is involved,” Angton confessed. “It is an all-day process…and you must ensure that you are well-prepared. You need to have projects ready; you need to be able to communicate effectively with people.”

As Angton admitted, the ACE Project has been a transformative experience for her, “It has enabled me to break out of my shell and has permitted me to explore a wide range of creative pursuits.” It is evident that the programme has had a profound impact on these aspiring entrepreneurs, fostering within them a sense of confidence and determination.

Rose Smith, the executive director of the ACE Project, shed light on the organisation’s mission to uplift underserved children and families struggling with the repercussions of gun violence and trauma. The programme not only serves as a platform for skill development, but also plays a vital role in offering a constructive and engaging environment for these children. Smith revealed, “I had one young man tell me that when he designs his clothing, it… provides him with a sense of peace and a sense of belonging. He thoroughly enjoys it, and it completely takes his mind off wanting to be out in the streets.”

Furthermore, the ACE Project provides financial assistance to its students to aid in launching their businesses, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their entrepreneurial spirit.

The success of the programme has led to the announcement of another free course, scheduled for this summer. Once again, children aged 10 to 18 will have the opportunity to enrol in this enriching experience.

The impact of the ACE Project’s Academy of Child Entrepreneurship Course on these young individuals has been undeniably remarkable. It is heartening to witness these children overcome obstacles and leverage their skills in the realm of business, demonstrating that with the right guidance and support, the possibilities are truly limitless.

The ACE Project, which is located in Louisville, has recently witnessed a remarkable transformation among a group of young individuals as they delved into the realm of business. Over 14 students, all affected in some way by gun violence, have successfully completed the Academy of Child Entrepreneurship Course and have commenced their own entrepreneurial endeavours.

One such student, Jayme Angton, has initiated her own business, ‘All Things Girls’, at a mere 14 years of age. “I create a variety of jewellery,” Angton proudly shared. She further explained, “Primarily, I design a range of women’s jewellery, and this year I have expanded into selling men’s jewellery. I have launched a new collection called ‘All Things Men’ this year, and I also offer tutus for sale.”

The seven-month programme that Angton and her peers underwent equipped them with indispensable business knowledge, financial skills, and the expertise necessary for crafting a comprehensive business plan. “It’s quite challenging; a considerable amount of planning is involved,” Angton confessed. “It is an all-day process…and you must ensure that you are well-prepared. You need to have projects ready; you need to be able to communicate effectively with people.”

As Angton admitted, the ACE Project has been a transformative experience for her, “It has enabled me to break out of my shell and has permitted me to explore a wide range of creative pursuits.” It is evident that the programme has had a profound impact on these aspiring entrepreneurs, fostering within them a sense of confidence and determination.

Rose Smith, the executive director of the ACE Project, shed light on the organisation’s mission to uplift underserved children and families struggling with the repercussions of gun violence and trauma. The programme not only serves as a platform for skill development, but also plays a vital role in offering a constructive and engaging environment for these children. Smith revealed, “I had one young man tell me that when he designs his clothing, it… provides him with a sense of peace and a sense of belonging. He thoroughly enjoys it, and it completely takes his mind off wanting to be out in the streets.”

Furthermore, the ACE Project provides financial assistance to its students to aid in launching their businesses, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their entrepreneurial spirit.

The success of the programme has led to the announcement of another free course, scheduled for this summer. Once again, children aged 10 to 18 will have the opportunity to enrol in this enriching experience.

The impact of the ACE Project’s Academy of Child Entrepreneurship Course on these young individuals has been undeniably remarkable. It is heartening to witness these children overcome obstacles and leverage their skills in the realm of business, demonstrating that with the right guidance and support, the possibilities are truly limitless.