Student entrepreneurs present original business concepts

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta hosted the Big Futures Pitch Competition on Saturday, May 2, at the agency’s headquarters in southwest Atlanta. Level Up Littles stepped into the spotlight to present original business ideas after weeks of financial literacy training and business planning in partnership with Fifth Third Bank.

Students pitched concepts including clothing brands, nail services, and cleaning businesses in front of five judges from Fifth Third Bank, two financial coaches, and members of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta Young Leadership Council.

The competition served as the culminating experience of a learning series. Participants completed a four-module curriculum through the Fifth Third Financial Literacy Academy, where they explored budgeting, goal setting, and entrepreneurship.

Each student developed an original business concept and created a detailed business plan before presenting their ideas during the live competition. Lead mentors supported students throughout the preparation process, while financial coaches worked with participants on-site ahead of their presentations to help build confidence and refine their pitches.

Five student entrepreneurs participated in the competition:

• Zamrion Wheeler, eighth grade: “Soldier Made,” a clothing brand
• Jaderious Whatley, seventh grade: “Young And Turnt,” a clothing brand
• Serenity Scott, eighth grade at Lithonia Middle School: “Peace, Nails, & Serenity,” a nail services business
• Hunter Camp, sixth grade at Lithonia Middle School: “Cleaning with Camp,” a cleaning services business

Hunter Camp earned first place for “Cleaning with Camp” and received a $1,000 prize sponsored by Fifth Third Bank. Every participant also received a $53 Visa gift card from the bank, a $50 gift card from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, swag bags, and a week of improv and public speaking classes.

The event highlighted the impact of combining mentorship with hands-on learning opportunities. Students strengthened public speaking skills, practiced professional communication, and gained real-world experience presenting ideas in a formal competition setting. Participants also built confidence in financial literacy and entrepreneurship while connecting with professionals in finance and business.

The Big Futures Pitch Competition reinforced the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders and innovators. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta remains committed to creating opportunities that empower young people to discover their potential and pursue their goals with confidence.