Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My biggest inspiration in business is my mom. I grew up watching her run businesses, help people, and bring communities together. I go with her to meetings, and even as a kid she made sure my voice mattered. That showed me that business isn’t just about money. It’s about solving problems and making a difference for others. Because of that, I’ve started selling merch, publishing books, leading community projects, and showing other kids they can make a difference too.

How do you stay motivated?

What keeps me motivated is noticing problems in my community and doing something about them. Sometimes it’s small things like our Little League needing a new sound system. Other times it’s bigger, like making sure kids have cereal over summer break. Recently the Boys & Girls Club even asked if I’d help with one of their events. That really motivates me because it means people see my leadership and trust me to help make things better.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I won $25,000, I would use it to grow the work my mom and I have been bootstrapping. I’ve already raised money for community projects, visited classrooms, and spoken at events across Maine. I am honored to be named Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy for Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. With real resources, we could build systems to expand these projects beyond Maine so more kids across the country see they can lead and make a difference too.