2024 Ambassadors
Jahkil Naeem Jackson, IL
Meet Jahkil Naeem Jackson, a remarkable individual whose passion for making a difference knows no bounds. At just eight years old, Jahkil founded Project I Am, a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding the homeless community. Now 16, Jahkil continues to be a beacon of hope and compassion for those in need.
Driven by a heartfelt desire to help others, Jahkil’s mission is to raise awareness about homelessness and provide practical assistance through his Blessing Bags initiative. These bags, filled with essentials like masks, wipes, socks, deodorants, and hand sanitizers, offer comfort and support to individuals facing hardship.
In just a few short years, Jahkil’s efforts have inspired countless young people to become agents of change and have directly impacted over 50,000 individuals in need across the globe. Through his unwavering dedication and commitment to service, Jahkil is transforming lives and spreading kindness wherever he goes.
Join the movement today and be a part of Jahkil’s mission to make the world a better place at officialprojectiam.com.
Christianna Alexander, FL
Meet Christianna, a remarkable 18-year-old teenpreneur and the creative force behind Sweet Christi’s, a thriving bath and body company. Despite facing academic challenges early on due to undiagnosed learning differences, Christianna’s resilience and determination have propelled her towards success.
In the face of setbacks, including being held back in school, Christianna refused to give up. With the support of specialized teachers and a newfound diagnosis, she embarked on a journey to close the academic gap. Starting Sweet Christi’s became more than just a business venture for Christianna—it was a lifeline, an outlet where she could find success and fulfillment.
Drawing inspiration from her own experiences, Christianna crafted soaps that resemble delectable treats like donuts and cupcakes, offering a sweet escape for both herself and her customers. Her creativity and passion caught the attention of major platforms, and she has since been featured on HSN and QVC.
Christianna’s dedication to her craft has not gone unnoticed. She was honored to receive a grant from Beyoncé’s BeyGood foundation and placed 1st in the PenFed Credit Union pitch competition. Additionally, she was recognized as a Changemaker by Invisalign as part of the 2021 class and is an esteemed alumni of the 2022 Disney Dreamer Academy.
Join the Sweet Squad today and experience the sweet sensations crafted by Christianna at sweetchristis.com. Together, let’s celebrate resilience, creativity, and the sweet taste of success!
Michael “Mikey” Wren, MO
Mikey Wren is not your average teenager. At just 17 years old, he is already making waves as a kid entrepreneur, speaker, and author. A proud alumni of the 2022 Disney Dreamers Academy, Mikey’s journey began at the age of 8 when he founded Mikey’s Munchies Vending, a local vending machine company in St. Louis, Missouri. Today, according to Google, he holds the title of the youngest vending machine owner in the US.
But Mikey’s story doesn’t end there. After overcoming challenges with reading and writing, he penned the bestselling children’s books “Mikey Learns about Business” and “Biz Is a Wiz,” tailored for early readers. Through his writing, Mikey aims to inspire young minds and ignite the entrepreneurial spark within them.
As a dynamic Gen Z voice, Mikey has taken the stage as a keynote speaker, hosted workshops, and empowered over 10,000 of his peers across the United States with his message of resilience and entrepreneurship.
Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Mikey is a dedicated community leader. He volunteers his time, hosting toy drives to provide new toys to kids in need, and teaches financial education, leadership, and entrepreneurship skills to his peers. Mikey’s commitment to giving back is evident in his donation of over $10,000 worth of brand-new clothing to youth in his community.
Now, Mikey is delving into photography and videography with a new venture called Mike You Snapped, expanding his creative horizons and exploring new avenues for expression.
Despite facing obstacles along the way, including struggles with reading and comprehension in the third grade, Mikey remains focused on his main goal: to inspire the little entrepreneur in us all. Connect with Mikey today at Mikeyknowsbiz.com and join him on his journey of empowerment and impact.
Bella Noelle Jordan, TN
Meet Bella Jordan! At just six years old, Bella is already making waves as an author, literacy advocate, and mini mogul. With a love for learning and big adventures, Bella’s book series, “The Adventures of Bella Noelle,” explores a variety of topics close to her heart.
From discussing dementia in “They Say She Has Dementia, I Say She’s Perfect” to tackling the importance of staying active in “Let’s Go for a Walk,” Bella’s books offer insights and inspiration for young readers. She even addresses tough topics like friendship and loss through her special series, complete with books, journals, and toolboxes to help kids understand their feelings.
Bella’s travels across the country spark her creativity, inspiring new stories and ideas for her writing. Not only is she the youngest best-selling author in history, but Bella also graduated as the youngest speaker from the Young Moguls Speakers Academy.
In addition to her writing endeavors, Bella is passionate about giving back. She actively participates in Young Biz Kidz Day, where she learns about entrepreneurship and helps other kids with their reading and writing skills. Bella’s charity, The Adventures in Reading, aims to provide books to children in need, spreading the joy of reading to all.
When she’s not busy with her many projects, Bella enjoys spending time with her family and friends, dancing, tackling fun challenges on social media, and diving into a good book. Excited for the future, Bella plans to launch products to help kids improve their reading and math skills, continuing her mission to make a positive impact in the world.
Life is an incredible adventure for Bella, and she can’t wait to see what exciting opportunities lie ahead!
Jordyn Wright.,TX
Jordyn Wright is the founder and CEO of J. Brielle Handmade Goods, a bath and body brand specializing in skin care essentials crafted for teens with sensitive skin. Infused with natural ingredients and free from phthalates and parabens, her products reflect her belief that how you care for yourself determines how you feel about yourself.
Jordyn passionately utilizes her platform to inspire and empower youth to pursue their interests through social entrepreneurship. She champions these ideals in her Amazon Best Seller Book, “The Clean Truth about Starting a Business for Teens,” and through her Youth Entrepreneurship Program, Passion to Purpose. She has partnered with national organizations like Junior Achievement and Young Biz Kidz to promote financial literacy and entrepreneurship among youth.
Jordyn gives back to her community each year by hosting an annual Christmas fundraiser to support underserved youth during the holiday season. Her impactful work has been featured in various media outlets, including People Magazine, Girls’ Life, Yahoo Finance, the Houston Chronicle, and more.
In recognition of her contributions, Jordyn has been honored as a 2023 Prudential Emerging Visionary Grand Prize Winner, the Gold Medalist for Entrepreneurship in the national 2022 ACT-SO Competition, and a recipient of the Presidential Volunteer Service Award, among numerous other accolades.
Jordyn plans to continue building her skincare empire by pursuing a medical degree in dermatology while minoring in business.
Rico Cruse, NV
Meet Rico Cruse from Nevada, an entrepreneurial dynamo who embarked on his journey at the young age of eight. Fast forward three years, and Rico’s Rockin’ Pop has become the go-to popcorn brand for families nationwide! Rico crafts his beloved snack in his very own commercial kitchen, affectionately dubbed “The Rockstar Studio.”
Specializing in Poppin’ Party Packages, Rico’s culinary creations have graced events ranging from local gatherings to President Joe Biden’s presidential campaign! But Rico’s talents extend beyond the kitchen. He’s also a bestselling author, with his debut children’s book, “Rico Rocks at Problem Solving,” skyrocketing to #1 on Amazon’s Best Seller list. Now available in both English and Spanish, Rico’s book has been selected for Nevada Reading Week, captivating audiences across the Las Vegas valley.
An entertainer at heart, Rico finds joy in writing, dancing, singing, and more. His mission? To spread joy wherever he goes and inspire others to embrace their true selves and live life to the fullest. Join Rico on his journey today at Ricosrockinpop.com and rock on with Rico!
Autumn Taylor.,FL
Meet Autumn Taylor from Florida, also known as Dr. Natural Autumn. At just 14 years old, she is the CEO and Founder of ASE Natural. Autumn is not only a gifted honor roll student but also has a deep passion for science, art, and music. Her aspiration to become a pediatrician is fueled by her belief that every child can benefit from embracing a natural lifestyle.
At ASE Natural, Autumn’s mission is clear: to empower children to lead healthy lives. Through educational resources, classes, and products, she aims to make learning about healthy living both informative and enjoyable. Autumn’s journey began with a desire to assist children in overcoming issues like dehydration and digestive problems.
In addition to her educational efforts, Autumn runs a community giveback program that promotes container and hydroponic gardening through STEM initiatives. Through her website, www.asenatural.com, Autumn invites children and families to join her in embracing the benefits of a natural lifestyle and making a positive impact on their health and well-being.
Olivia Ohlson.,IL
Introducing Olivia Ohlson from Illinois, a multi-talented individual recognized as an award-winning community activist, athlete, speaker, author, artist, and entrepreneur. Under her umbrella organization, OSOE Projects, Olivia manages three impactful non-profit initiatives simultaneously.
Olivia’s Pink Lemonade and Pink Ribbon Cookie Stands, initiated when she was just 10 years old, have raised thousands of dollars for cancer research and patient care at Evanston’s local Cancer Center. Amidst the pandemic, Olivia launched her second project, Hygiene Kits for Evanston’s Underserved, distributing over 4,000 kits in the past three years to communities in Evanston and Chicago.
In Spring 2022, Olivia embarked on her third endeavor, Diversify Golf, aiming to provide free exposure to golf for girls and children of color through specialized camps, pop-up stands, and classes. As a JV golfer and JV softball player at her high school, Olivia’s passion for sports is evident.
Her dedication to athletics and community involvement earned her one of only five National Female Athlete of the Year Honorary ESPY Awards from ESPN in Summer 2022, recognizing her contributions to the local Girls Play Sports Youth Board and her impactful work with Diversify Golf.
Beyond her athletic pursuits, Olivia is a published poet, school newspaper contributor, avid photographer, and artist. She is currently working on her debut book. Stay updated on Olivia’s endeavors through her website www.oliviaohlson.com, and follow @osoeprojects and @diversifygolf on social media.
Lena Ford.,GA
Lena D. Ford is the creative force behind Positively Lena, a platform dedicated to spreading positivity and self-love among children and adults alike. Through her website, she offers a variety of uplifting products, including books, stationery, bags, keychains, and t-shirts. Her featured children’s book, “I Love Me… and That’s Okay,” focuses on teaching children the importance of self-love and kindness.
Lena also hosts workshops to teach youth entrepreneurship, creative writing, journaling, and self-esteem. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Lena is committed to giving back to the community as the co-founder of Kinship Family Initiative, which supports families and children involved with the foster care system.
Nationally recognized, Lena has been honored as a “Generation Rising Youth” by Good Morning America and as Youth Entrepreneur of the Year by Black Enterprise. To learn more about Lena and her work, visit www.positivelylena.com.
Te’Lario Watkins II.,OH
Meet Te’Lario Watkins II, a 16-year-old entrepreneur who embarked on his journey at the tender age of 7 when a Cub Scout Project sparked the creation of Tiger Mushroom Farms. From cultivating shiitake and oyster mushrooms in his basement and spare bedroom, Te’Lario has blossomed into a community leader.
Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Te’Lario is a speaker, published author, and Hunger Hero. He is also the visionary founder of the nonprofit organization, The Garden Club Project, dedicated to ending hunger and promoting healthier eating habits among children.
Te’Lario II’s dedication to service has not gone unnoticed. He has received recognition for his commitment to fostering agricultural innovation and social responsibility, including the prestigious 10 Under 20 Hormel Food Hero award and the Barron Prize. Additionally, Te’Lario was honored to be accepted into the Disney Dreamers Academy Class of 2024.
With a heart for making a difference, Te’Lario Watkins II aims to inspire others to create positive change in their communities.
Justyn Boumah.,NV
Introducing Justyn Boumah, an extraordinary 8-year-old TEDx Speaker, Philanthropist, Social Entrepreneur, and Youth Influencer. Justyn holds the distinction of being the youngest Founder of a nonprofit organization in Nevada, leading the impactful Heroes and Hearts.
Through Heroes and Hearts, Justyn channels his talents and creativity to empower underserved communities globally. His mission? To educate, encourage, and empower marginalized communities through literacy, leadership, and legacy. This vision comes to life through four annual giveback campaigns:
- The Blessing Project: Recognizing and thanking community workers worldwide.
- Art & Reading: Promoting literacy through the arts.
- STEM Days: Robotics, Bricks, and Kicks: Engaging students in science through interactive activities.
- Learning is Fun Libraries: Establishing libraries worldwide for children in need.
Justyn’s remarkable endeavors have earned him acclaim and recognition on an international scale. Public figures like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have taken note of his purity of heart and global impact. He has been featured on esteemed platforms such as NBC Nightly News, the TODAY Show, PBS, People TV, ABC World News, and more.
Additionally, Justyn’s dedication has garnered him numerous scholarships, grants, and special recognitions, totaling over $65,000. With a heart full of compassion and a drive to make a difference, Justyn Boumah continues to inspire and uplift communities worldwide.
Elizabeth Kennedy Ellison.,TX
Elizabeth Kennedy Ellison is the 12-year-old CEO of Lizzy’s Lemonade Lounge. She launched her solo business venture, L3, at the age of seven, following her first lemonade stand business, Lemonistas for Literacy (L4L), which she started at just five years old. Elizabeth is dedicated to spreading love across Houston “one sip at a time.”
The proceeds from Lizzy’s Lemonade Lounge support her nonprofit, Kennedy Kares 2 (K2). Since 2017, K2 has been providing blessing bags to neighbors experiencing homelessness during the winter holiday season. These bags not only offer essential items but also instill a sense of hope and community.
Looking ahead, Elizabeth is excited to debut “The Little Green Book,” a directory of youth entrepreneurs in the Houston area, on her 13th birthday this August. She is also planning to purchase a mobile unit and have a re-grand opening in the summer of 2028, further expanding her impact and outreach.