My Journey with the National Black MBA Association

Four years ago, I joined the Leaders of Tomorrow (LOT) program through the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) to grow as a leader and connect with Black professionals making a difference in their industries. I didn’t realize then just how deeply this program would shape my path—not only as a student, but also as a speaker, strategist, and social entrepreneur.

Today, I look back with gratitude and pride. From winning national business competitions to moderating panels with Fortune 500 executives, delivering a keynote at a national summit dinner, and sponsoring scholarships, my experience with NBMBAA has become a defining part of my high school journey.

Winning Nationally and Learning Constantly

Over the past three years, I’ve represented the St. Louis LOT chapter in NBMBAA’s National Business Case Competitions, where I led my team to 2nd place nationally in both 2023 and 2024, earning $10,000 in scholarships each year. In 2022, I won 1st place in the National Pitch Competition, presenting Junior Java as a youth-led social enterprise committed to education equity.

In 2024, I was also named Top Presenter in the virtual case competition, an honor that recognized my ability to lead, deliver, and communicate complex business strategies under pressure.

Through these experiences, I gained hands-on knowledge in business consulting—learning how to analyze real-world challenges, present solutions, and make strategic decisions. Today, I apply those same skills to help actual businesses refine their operations and create measurable impact.

Honored with the Blue Blazer Award

This year, I received the Blue Blazer Award, one of the most prestigious honors in the Leaders of Tomorrow program. It recognizes students who demonstrate leadership, service, and professionalism throughout their time in the program. This award affirmed the time, effort, and purpose I’ve poured into not just competing, but also serving the LOT community.

A National Stage: My 2024 Summit Dinner Speech

One of the most meaningful moments of my NBMBAA journey came at the 2024 Leaders of Tomorrow National Summit, where I was selected to deliver a speech at the National Recognition Dinner. Standing before students, mentors, executives, and change makers from across the country, I shared my story and spoke about the responsibility we all have to lead with purpose.

Watch My 2024 Summit Speech Here 

From Competitor to Moderator

Another milestone came when I was selected to moderate a panel of Fortune 500 executives at the NBMBAA National Conference. I guided a conversation on corporate leadership, innovation, and equity. That experience showed me that age doesn’t define value—and that preparation earns you a seat at the table.

Giving Back Through Sponsorship and Mentorship

In 2024, I proudly sponsored the NBMBAA St. Louis Gala through my company, Junior Java. That sponsorship helped raise $1,200 in scholarships for minority students. I’ve also worked as a mentor to younger LOT participants, coaching them on pitch structure, presentation skills, and competition readiness.

As Team Captain of the St. Louis chapter, I’ve helped create a culture of accountability, confidence, and support—one that continues to grow even as students graduate and new leaders step in.

What This All Means

Through the NBMBAA, I’ve grown into a speaker, strategist, and servant leader. I’ve learned that business is more than strategy—it’s about values, people, and impact. The skills I’ve developed through this program are now tools I use to drive change in real-world spaces.

The NBMBAA helped me find my voice. Now, I’m using it to help others rise.

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