AT GRANGER, there are many young entrepreneurs who balance their schoolwork with running their own businesses, showing dedication and good time management skills. They prove that age is just a number when it comes to achieving dreams. These young business owners bring fresh ideas and creativity to the table, often using technology and social media to grow their enterprises. Their passion and hard work set them apart from their classmates and show that learning valuable skills is important for the future. By taking risks and trying new things, young entrepreneurs inspire others to follow their dreams, too.
Anahi Romero (11) started her acrylic nail business on Instagram at the end of 2023. She enjoys the freedom that comes with being a nail artist and an entrepreneur. “I love the freedom of being my own boss. Some of the advantages I get from having my own business are that I get to work at home, work at the hours that I want,” Romero said.
Starting a business while staying on top of school isn’t easy. There are many parts of launching a business, like growing a passion for something, buying the supplies needed, and managing the business. Many young entrepreneurs face their own challenges but succeed in different ways. “It was difficult learning how to market and how to master my skill, now it is easy, all it takes is some practice and getting used to it,” Romero said.
Her family and friends are very supportive of her business. They show this in many ways, like sharing her posts, letting her practice on them, and giving her advice. Students can support her by following her and sharing her content. “You can find me @nailzby.anna_ on Instagram” Romero said.
Yandal Dominguez (10) started his barber business in seventh grade, working with close friends and family. Dominguez now has his own barbershop at home. “I like how I can make people feel better about themselves and make them feel good,” Dominguez said. One of the difficulties Dominguez faced was getting more customers. “The hardest part so far has been trying to get clients and earning their trust,” Dominguez said.
Although there are many ups and downs of having a business, all business owners do what they do for a reason. Dominguez enjoys doing hair because he can talk to clients, hear about their stories, and often receives advice from them. “My brother is also a barber actually and helps me a lot with all kinds of things,” Dominguez said. It’s important to have support through obstacles like this, and it’s amazing to have someone so close and well-experienced to help. To book an appointment, try his @blendzz_yandel account on Instagram.
Another of the many nail technicians at Granger is Kimberly Arroyo (10). She is a self-taught nail technician who started her business very young but has always had an interest in nails. “I have always been getting my nails done since I was about six years old and loved the whole process,” Arroyo said. At just eleven years old, Arroyo started her business. She operates from home but plans to open a suite soon.
Arroyo believes that while some months are slow and others are fully booked, passion makes it easier to manage and enjoy her business. “Some things I personally enjoy about being a nail tech are building good relationships with my clients. Some other advantages I get from being self-employed are I get to choose my own availability, I make money faster, and I get more experience every day,” Arroyo said. She has received support from client referrals, friends, and family since the very beginning. Her work is truly incredible, and to book an appointment, try her @clawedby.kim account on Instagram.
