Growing up, I was surrounded by entrepreneurs. My parents were my first examples—I watched them work together to build their businesses into what they are today. I was always drawn to the process of starting with an idea, no matter how crazy it might seem, and believing in it. If there’s anything I’ve learned firsthand from watching my parents, it’s that it all starts with believing in yourself, and the rest will fall into place.

One of my earliest entrepreneurial endeavors was my Rainbow Loom bracelet business. I had a pretty good business model for an eight-year-old, if I do say so myself. I stocked up on inventory, making a wide variety of bracelets, rings, and accessories all crafted from tiny colorful rubber bands. I even got to work on my signage the old-fashioned way—painting my own sign. To make the business look official, I designed my logo in Microsoft Paint and printed it on sticker paper to seal the plastic bags I used for packaging. Luckily, I had my parents to provide endorsements, bringing the advertisements I made and some sample products to work to help broaden my market. That eventually turned into custom orders for their friends and coworkers. Looking back, it was nothing extravagant, but it was the first time I put something I created out into the world. My Rainbow Loom bracelet business taught me to have confidence in the work I create.

All this to say, none of that would have happened without inspiration, inspiration from my parents and their support. I believe that inspiration and entrepreneurial innovation go hand in hand. Which brings me to where I am today: a Marketing Intern here at Awesome Inc! I find it incredibly inspiring to contribute to an organization that helps fuel the spark of local entrepreneurs here in Kentucky. Experiencing the 5 Across pitch competitions has been one of my favorite parts of my internship. I am always inspired by the unique ideas and by watching startup founders put their all into their pitches.

There’s something truly special about the entrepreneurial spark, and it teaches you something at every turn, even when you’re just an eight-year-old selling Rainbow Loom bracelets for a dollar.