FBLA Workshop: Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs | Influx Community Cares

Educate. Equip. Empower.

That’s exactly what Influx Community Cares Foundation (ICCF) set out to do during our recent FBLA Workshop, where high school students from South Central High School and Ayden-Grifton High School came together to sharpen their entrepreneurial skills and discover what it means to think — and live — creatively.

Hosted at The Dickinson Event Space in Greenville, NC, the workshop was filled with energy, collaboration, and innovation from start to finish. Students stepped outside their comfort zones, explored real-world business challenges, and learned that creativity is more than art — it’s a mindset.

Living Artfully with Jared Roach

Our guest speaker, Jared Roach, CEO of DRMR Creative, led an engaging session titled “Living Artfully.” His message challenged students to think differently, push boundaries, and approach every problem with imagination rather than settling for the easy answer.

Jared’s talk encouraged students to see entrepreneurship as both a creative journey and a practical skill. His interactive style and real-world insights sparked new ideas and inspired students to view business from a fresh, artful perspective.

Shark Tank Challenge: Innovation in Action

One of the day’s highlights was a Shark Tank–style competition where student teams identified a problem that affects high school students and developed a creative solution. Each group designed a logo, built a business pitch, and presented their ideas to a panel of judges.

From social challenges to school-based solutions, students impressed everyone with their innovation and teamwork — proving that when young minds are empowered, anything is possible.

The Lemonade Company Challenge

Next came the Small Business Challenge, where students got a taste of entrepreneurship — literally! Each team was tasked with creating their own lemonade company from the ground up. From branding and marketing to messaging and even crafting their own signature drink, students learned how much strategy and creativity go into building a business.

This hands-on activity not only brought smiles (and some seriously good lemonade) but also showed students the importance of planning, teamwork, and originality in business success.

Building the Future Together

The FBLA Workshop reflected the very mission of Influx Community Cares Foundation — to educate, equip, and empower. Through experiences like this, we help the next generation gain the confidence and skills to lead, create, and innovate within their communities.

We’re proud of every student who participated and grateful to our partners, speakers, and volunteers who made this event possible. The future of entrepreneurship in Eastern North Carolina is bright — and it starts with opportunities like these.

Join the Movement

Influx Community Cares Foundation is committed to providing educational programs and hands-on learning experiences that strengthen our community.