BIG Futures: Empowering Seattle Youth Through Real-World Entrepreneurship

BBBSPS team with the heading highlight the empowerment of entrepreneurship. Students joined the event with photograph activities and post on social media

The City of Seattle has given Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound a unique opportunity to introduce young people to the world of entrepreneurship. Through the BIG Futures Program, we’re connecting youth with local business leaders, providing them with insights into career possibilities, and helping them build essential skills for the future. Our program includes three impactful installments designed to inspire, educate, and guide youth on their journey toward professional success:

  • Real-World Exposure: We connect and provide unique access to industry professionals and first-hand insights into career paths.
  • Guided Learning: We create structured sessions to help youth gain confidence, network, and understand the steps needed for various careers.
  • Actionable Steps: From resume workshops to shadowing opportunities, youth gain tools and experiences that set them up for future success.
1. Career Fair:

This engaging fair happened on November 9th. It connected youth with successful makers and doers. This dynamic market brought together local small business entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries—including art, retail, beauty, business services, entertainment, and culinary arts—to share their career experiences directly with Seattle’s youth.

BBBSPS team members  Students practice photography

BBBSPS staff and students take pictures together   Small business owner in the career fair   BBBSPS staff in career fair

2. Virtual Session:

Following the Vendor Market, youth had a chance to attend a virtual recap to reflect on their learnings, connect with additional professionals, and explore new career paths. The virtual recap was held on November 16th. Professionals like Steve Lozano (Vitaes) and Michelle Gordon also joined to share insights on career exploration and development, covering key strategies for success.

Virtual activities of BIG Futures, including BBBSPS staff, small business owners and students

3. Hybrid Session:

This session was a panel of experienced business leaders and entrepreneurs who provided practical advice on the next steps in career development. During this event, Youth had the opportunity to engage in activities like resume building and shadowing. Therefore, the experience helped Youth identify their strengths and areas for growth as they begin to pursue their own professional journeys.

You can make the difference by Becoming a Big, register today!

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