Nationwide — Zoe Oli launched Beautiful Curly Me, her award-winning toy company, at age 7 and grew it from the living room to retail shelves nationwide. Now 14, she’s helping other kids succeed in business. She has made it her mission to support her peers through Youth Mean Business (YMB), the nonprofit she co-founded with her mother, Evana Eko, that empowers youth entrepreneurs in Grades 6-12, with coaching, community and capital to fund their companies.
Since launch, YMB has distributed more than $35,000 in direct grants to youth entrepreneurs, whose businesses generate a combined $750,000 in revenue. YMB also provides entrepreneurship education for youth interested in starting their own business.
On September 12, 2026, the inaugural YMB Summit will bring together youth entrepreneurs, aspiring founders, and their families for Atlanta’s first Youth Entrepreneurship Conference. The Summit, being held at the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) in Atlanta, is open to youth in Grades 6-12 who either have a business or are interested in starting one, along with the adults who support them. Attendees can expect a day of tailored workshops, expert coaching, connections with other youth founders, and a live pitch competition awarding
$10,000 in grant funding.
As the CEO of Beautiful Curly Me, a confidence-building toy and media brand for girls, Zoe has been featured on platforms including Good Morning America, Forbes, and The Jennifer Hudson Show, is a national keynote speaker, and runs a social impact giving program that has donated thousands of dolls to underprivileged children.
“For every opportunity I have received, there are countless young people with incredible ideas who may not have the same access,” said Oli, who serves as YMB’s Chief Youth Officer. “They have the creativity, passion, and drive, but no mentors, resources, or adults willing to take them seriously. That is what Youth Mean Business is here to change.”
“Our young people are brilliant and have big ideas; they just need the right tools, resources, support, and investment to create impact. That is what we do at Youth Mean Business,” said Evana Eko, YMB’s Executive Director.
Registration for the YMB Summit and $10K pitch competition on September 12, 2026, is open now at ymbsummit.org
About
Youth Mean Business (YMB) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that empowers middle and high school youth through entrepreneurship. YMB provides coaching, mentorship, community, and capital, so young people can launch, build, and scale impactful businesses.
Follow Youth Mean Business on social media @youthmeanbusiness
For press inquiries, contact Ekaette Kern ekaette@brandsavor.com
Source: BlackNews.com
