Monday in the Middle School Jumpstart Program!

Our first full day at the Middle School Jumpstart Program was packed with insight, discovery, and inspiration. Students began the morning preparing for their first Business Partner calls with their Nigerian Business Partners. These conversations were far more than simple introductions, they served as powerful windows into the lives, goals, and challenges of entrepreneurs working to improve their communities. Interns asked thoughtful questions and took detailed notes, laying the groundwork to translate what they learned into meaningful action.

Later in the morning, students attended the Introduction to Marketing session led by Carla Brooks, a seasoned communications professional and business strategist. Carla introduced the foundational concepts of branding and marketing, helping interns understand how elements like color, tone, and storytelling can help small businesses connect more deeply with their audiences. She encouraged each team to think creatively about how to highlight their partner’s strengths and communicate their vision to a wider world.

In the afternoon, interns visited the Austrian Embassy, where they toured the facilities and engaged in conversations about diplomacy and international collaboration. Returning to Georgetown, they heard from Umar Muhammad, the Nigerian Country Director at Leadership Initiatives. Umar shared insights into the realities of operating a business in Nigeria, highlighting challenges such as inconsistent electricity and limited access to capital. He encouraged interns to approach these obstacles with empathy and to use that understanding as a foundation for innovation.

Interns continued exploring entrepreneurship with Nikki Hendricks, an entrepreneur that has built her own fashion brand from the ground up. Nikki’s dynamic session helped students identify real-world challenges and brainstorm practical solutions, skills they’ll apply directly in their upcoming microgrant proposals.

To close out the day, interns participated in a fast-paced Consulting Simulation Game led by Marc Zavarro. Competing in real-time business challenges, students practiced making strategic decisions under pressure, mirroring the environments entrepreneurs often face. Afterward, they had the chance to explore Georgetown’s beautiful campus by night and reflect on everything they had experienced. Each student is already beginning to grow into a more confident, thoughtful leader. We can’t wait to see how they continue to rise to the challenge throughout the week.