NEXT Generation Business Summit brings networking and education opportunities to FTCC

By Faith Hatton, posted May 10, 2024 on BizFayetteville.com

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.

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