Business Education

NEXT Generation Business Summit brings networking and education opportunities to FTCC

By Faith Hatton, posted 2 years ago

The NEXT GENERATION SUMMIT took place at the Tony Rand Student Center on Friday, May 10 bringing new and experienced entrepreneurs together for a chance to network and learn. 

The Fayetteville Next Advisory Commission in partnership with Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) partnered together to assist participants in developing high-level strategies and addressing critical challenges in their business development or job search journeys.

The Summit was developed as part of the Fayetteville NEXT Advisory Commission’s key initiative goals for 2024. 

The Summit began at 9 a.m. with a Workforce Development Session featuring a job readiness workshop led by area business advocates including Workforce Development Professional Xavier DeBrough. During his presentation DeBrough provided practical tips to apply when going for your next opportunity. Topics included focusing on areas such as first impressions, confidence and communication. 

He also focused on the importance of networking as a potential and current business owner, and included a group exercise to demonstrate how you never know where your next key connection can come from. 

Following a Munch & Mingle food truck picnic lunch hour, outside of the student center, summit attendees were welcomed back to a Business Strategy Panel Discussion Session. 

Seven panelists composed of successful Fayetteville rooted entrepreneurs were able to give their insight as business owners on a number of business topics including finding a market for your business, the importance of networking, business operations and strategic planning, the biggest challenges they faced when starting their business and more. 

Panelists included: 

  • Kwame Molden, SPGBK Watches Co-Founder & President       
  • J'Kwan Fulmore, Er'Body Eatz Owner and Former Pro-Athlete Chef        
  • Chris Dixon, St. Footwear Designer-Timberland Energy Founder         
  • Derrick McArthur, Economic Development Manager with the City of Fayetteville    
  • Eric Anderson, Founding Partner of Black Label Access    
  • Jessica Jones, Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Becoming Counseling Services
  • Adriel Hortiales-Lynch, Opulence Productions Owner & CEO 

The panel was moderated by President and Executive Director of The Tulsa Initiative, Inc. Qu'Derrick R. Covington. 

The Fayetteville Next Advisory Commission is established to attract, retain, and engage Fayetteville residents between the ages of 23 and 39. The Commission is dedicated to improving the quality of life for young adults through targeted event programming and community outreach initiatives, making Fayetteville a “desirable place to live, work and recreate” for this generation. Keep up with their mission and current events on their Facebook page here

 

Editor's note: This article is still being developed. More still to come from Fayetteville NEXT event organizers. 

Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT

In The Current Issue

Growing and glowing: Skin Specialists of Fayetteville expands into new Owen Drive facility, plans July grand reopening

Photo provided by Skin Specialists of FayettevilleA Veteran-owned Fayetteville medical spa that launched during the COVID-19 pandemic has grown into a multi-disciplinary aesthetics and wellness practice — winning the 2024 Readers’ Choice Award for Be


Savoring tradition: How Yinzers is bringing Pittsburgh's iconic flavors to Fayetteville

Josh Buracchio and his wife Gina had a vision two years ago: to bring the best of their beloved Pittsburgh’s culinary scene to Fayetteville. They created Yinzers, an in-demand food truck known for its take on the traditional Pittsburgh sandwiches. Ph


Publisher's note: Medical marvel

Photo by GFBJI’m sorry—what do you mean we’re already halfway through June? Wasn’t April last week? You’ll have to forgive my confusion. You see, on Friday, June 5, just one day after a successful Power Breakfast, my dear husband brought home a