At the young age of eight, Leen Aldoh describes herself as an artist.
“Art makes me calm and happy,” Leen, of Homer Glen, said. “I love to paint. It’s not only fun to do; it’s my passion.”
More than 50 young entrepreneurs joined Leen on Saturday, Feb. 22, and transformed the Business and Conference Center at Moraine Valley Community College into a thriving marketplace, selling handcrafted products, homemade treats, and creative services at the second annual Youth Entrepreneur Fair.
Leen sold handmade, carefully crafted paintings, each with its own unique artistry and style.
Children and teens, just with talents just like her, ranging from 6 to 14 years old set up their very own booths featuring everything from artwork, custom jewelry and scented candles to tie-dye apparel, artwork, and pet-sitting services.
The event gave participants the opportunity to engage with customers, develop business strategies, and experience the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship firsthand.
Danya Rafati, of Orland Park, sold scented playdough and scented sugar scrub, featuring fun flavors like peppermint, lavender and coffee.
“I like that I’m able to sell my creations here at the fair,” Danya, 8, said.
The fair, now in its second year at Moraine Valley, was organized by Pet City, the Arab American Business and Professional Association, the NextGen Business Leaders Club at Moraine Valley, and the Acton School of Business. ABPA has served as the main sponsor for both years, providing financial support, prize money, and even having its president serve as the event’s master of ceremonies.
“The kids that participate tap into their own creativity and desire for success through the creation of their own products and services, finding unique ways to set themselves apart from the competition and reach outside their comfort zones,” said Sundus Madi-McCarthy, the event organizer and an academic advisor at Moraine Valley. “The fair is an opportunity for them to show not only the public what they have but also prove to themselves the value of their hard work.”
Beyond selling their products, the young entrepreneurs participated in a judged competition where businesses were evaluated based on innovation, presentation, and overall potential. The event also included a workshop in the days leading to the fair, hosted with support from the NextGen
Business Leaders at Moraine Valley, where participants learned key business skills such as marketing and customer engagement.
Madi-McCarthy, whose own personal young entrepreneurs auditioned to host the event with their business, Pet City – Pet Sitting Services, said one of the most rewarding aspects of the fair is watching the kids develop confidence as they interact with customers.
“It takes a lot of confidence at a young age to talk to customers and make sales,” she said. “The kids learn they can also be business owners by reflecting on their own efforts. With hard work, they can accomplish anything.”
The energy in the room was palpable, with young vendors eagerly engaging with customers and learning the ins and outs of business transactions.
“What I like most about this event is the energy the kids bring to the room,” Madi-McCarthy said. “It is such a positive light to see youth taking on and building these fundamental skills for life. I love how the community shows up for these kids and how much hope there is for their future.”
As the fair wrapped up, many of the young business owners left not only with profits but with valuable lessons in entrepreneurship, teamwork, and perseverance.
“This gives us an outlet to express and share our creative talents,” Giada Buglio, 13, of Homer Glen, said.
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