More Than a Program.
A Legacy.
The Youth Entrepreneurship & Leadership Academy (YELA)
is designed to equip both youth and adults with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive.
We believe in action, not just ambition. In building, not just dreaming.
Founded by Cheryl Ellis-Taylor
A visionary leader committed to empowering the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs. Cheryl created YELA to bridge the gap between ambition and achievement, providing structured pathways for both emerging and established builders.
YELA Youth:
Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
YELA Youth is where vision meets action. Designed for ambitious teens, this program empowers participants to turn their ideas into real-world ventures while developing the leadership, confidence, and business skills they'll need to thrive.
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🚀 What Students Learn​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
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Entrepreneurial Basics
How to identify a problem, develop an idea, and turn it into a business model.
Financial
Literacy
Budgeting, startup costs, and how to fund a business.
Branding &
Marketing
Building a personal brand and promoting a business through social media.
Leadership &
Teamwork
Communication, problem-solving, and collaboration in real-world settings.
Pitching &
Presentation Skills
Delivering confident, professional business presentations.
Real-World
Application
Hands-on projects guided by experienced business professionals.
Why YELA Youth Works
YELA isn't just another summer camp — it's a hands-on incubator for young innovators. Over six weeks, students collaborate with peers and are mentored by experienced business professionals, completing the program with tangible outcomes.
A business plan they can launch immediately
Confidence in public speaking and financial planning
A network of mentors and like-minded peers
A certificate of completion for future resumes and college applications
YELA PRO: BUILD. PITCH. OWN YOUR FUTURE.
In just 6 weeks, you won't just learn business—you'll live it. You'll walk away with more than knowledge. You'll walk away transformed.
Leadership &
Business Foundations
Lead with purpose. Build with strategy. Stop dreaming—start doing.
Vision &
Financial Confidence
Know your worth. Fund your dream. Understand credit, cash flow, and capital like a founder—not a follower.
Mental Wellness Tools
Great creators don't just survive pressure—they thrive in it. Learn resilience that lasts.
Branding & Storytelling
Your story is your superpower. We'll teach you to tell it so the world can't scroll past.
Pitch Like a Pro
Command the room. Win the room. Make them believe—because you already do.
Certificate &
Lifelong Network
Graduate with a certificate, connections, and the confidence that you belong at the table.
And yes—your journey ends with a Capstone Pitch Showcase.
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Present your business to real judges.
Earn your Certificate of Completion.
The top idea wins a $500 grant—and ongoing mentorship from industry leaders.