Student Entrepreneurs from UNCG Making a Difference One Business at a Time

The UNCG Collegiate Entrepreneurship Organization (CEO) club is a student-led organization that aims to provide educational opportunities for students to tap into their creativity and network with like-minded individuals. Led by President Jules Belfi, Vice President Meaghan Dohnert, and Marketplace Director Carrie Holcombe, CEO hosts events and workshops to support innovative thinking among students.

One of the club’s initiatives is the student marketplace, which provides a platform for students to sell and market their goods and services to other students on campus. The most recent marketplace, held on October 1, 2024, saw seventy-three vendors collectively making over $27,500 in sales. The upcoming marketplace on April 15, 2025, promises to be even more exciting with musical performances and a variety of products on display.

Ayla Thompson, an entrepreneurship and marketing student and director of media for CEO, shared her success story at the marketplace. Thompson’s business, “Finds & Reminds,” focuses on upcycling and reselling clothes to reduce textile waste. The marketplace gave her the push she needed to start her business and continue promoting it at various markets outside of the club.

Another student entrepreneur, Lakshmi Bobbili, specializes in handmade Indian fusion jewelry that combines traditional Indian elements with modern designs. Bobbili’s passion for craftsmanship and creating value through her business reflects the essence of entrepreneurship. Despite the challenges of uncertainty, risk-taking, and understanding customer preferences, Bobbili finds the journey incredibly rewarding and full of opportunities for growth and learning.

Briana Johnson, a new media design student with an established business since 2016, credits organizations like CEO for helping her become more comfortable talking about her business and improving her self-image. Johnson’s business, “Br33zytees,” offers handmade custom tie-dye, bleach, ice-dye apparel, and hand-painted accessories. Through entrepreneurship, Johnson has learned to take control of her success and failure, embracing the challenges that come with managing a business.

The CEO marketplace not only raises awareness of student businesses but also fosters connections among student entrepreneurs. Each business has a unique story waiting to be heard, and UNCG encourages students to embrace their creativity, overcome obstacles, and pursue their transformative ideas. For students interested in entrepreneurship, resources are available to support their journey towards building successful businesses.

In conclusion, the UNCG CEO club provides a supportive environment for student entrepreneurs to explore their creativity, network with peers, and showcase their businesses. The marketplace events serve as a platform for students to gain valuable experience, connect with customers, and grow their businesses. Through entrepreneurship, students learn valuable skills, overcome challenges, and discover the rewarding journey of building a business from the ground up.