For a group of pint-sized entrepreneurs, preparing for Christmas goes way beyond writing a letter to Santa. Participants in the Kids Only Christmas Sale & Money Savvy Show are busy making stock lists, checking their inventory twice and perfecting their sales pitch for the trade show, set for December 6-7 at Mario's Bowling & Family Entertainment Palace.
Event founder, Keshelle Davis of Creative Wealth Bahamas, launched the show in 2008 for young Bahamians to learn money management skills while earning extra cash for the holidays. What started as a way for kids to clear out their closets by selling used books, video games and toys has evolved into viable businesses for young vendors.
"The show allows participants the opportunity to understand the basic principles of operating a business. By selecting inventory, setting up a booth and selling items, they learn how money works and the art of negotiation," Davis explains. "Through the years, our kids have enhanced their product offerings to include brand new toys, crafts and services."
During the event, American kid entrepreneur, 14-year-old Gabrielle Jordan, will share her story of building a business from the age of 9 (www.gabriellejordaninspires.com). There will also be presentations for parents on money matters, parenting an entrepreneur and talking to kids about VAT.
Past Kids Christmas Only Sale exhibitor Cherell Williamson participated in the show in 2008. Today, the 21-year-old owner of Mask Ara has grown her business and now earns income as a professional makeup artist and face painter.
"It's extremely rewarding to see kids who have passed through this program go on to fulfill their business goals as adult entrepreneurs. Cherell is a perfect example of how planting a seed can yield positive results," said Davis. She encourages parents to register their children for the show and asks members of the general public to support future business leaders by attending the event.
On November 29, during a pre-event pep rally kids can sign up as individuals or with business partners, receive their "business license" and select a charity to donate a portion of their sales.
"We always include an element of charity at the event," noted Davis. Christmas is typically a time when kids are focused on receiving gifts, but we want to show the importance of giving back. This year, we are proud to contribute to the Ranfurly Homes for Children, Hands for Hunger, All Saints Camp and BAARK. A member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. will also be conducting a toy drive at this year's trade show."
She continued, "I would like to thank the United States Embassy, our key sponsor for this event and all of our other corporate partners including Scotiabank Bahamas Ltd., Lickety Split and Creative Wealth Bahamas," Davis concluded.
The event is open to children ages 6-16. To register your child for the 2014 Kids Only Christmas Sale & Money Savvy Show, visit http://www.kidschristmassale.com, call 429-4493 or email info@creativewealthbahamas.com.
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