YOUTH BUSINESS ACADEMY – Where Future Leaders Begin!

Why Join Us?

Enhance Public Speaking Skills: Become a captivating and confident speaker ready for any stage. Develop Critical Thinking: Cultivate a robust entrepreneurial mindset that sparks innovation. Master Business Fundamentals: Gain essential knowledge in core business concepts. Engage in Real-World Business Experiences: Participate in practical exercises like pitching business ideas and mock competitions. Prepare for Prestigious Competitions: Get ready to excel in top-tier business competitions with comprehensive preparation.

Our Approach:

Utilizing DECA To achieve these benefits, we leverage the prestigious DECA platform. DECA is an international organization that equips high school and college students for successful careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Through exciting competitions, enriching conferences, and leadership development opportunities, DECA offers practical, hands-on experiences like case studies and role-playing scenarios that are crucial for developing these skills. Our Mission: At the Youth Business Academy, our mission is to inspire young leaders in financial literacy, business administration, hospitality, and marketing. We provide interactive learning experiences, mentorship, and bi-weekly sessions that equip students with the tools to confidently turn their ideas into reality. Our graduates are motivated and prepared to shine in international business competitions such as DECA and FBLA.

Meet the Team:

Co-Founder Brannon Zee: A senior at Bergen County Academies in New Jersey, Brannon has an impressive track record in business and finance competitions. With numerous accolades and roles in organizations like DECA and the Federal Reserve Challenge, he brings valuable expertise to inspire future innovators through BCMSDL.

Co-Founder Aanya Marya: A junior at John P. Stevens High School in Edison, NJ, Aanya has excelled in national debate tournaments and has significantly contributed to BCMSDL as VP of the MUN Chapter and COO. Her leadership roles in her school's DECA chapter and newspaper highlight her commitment to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Program Timeline:

Start Date:

December 3, 2024 Duration: 5 months of immersive bi-weekly sessions focusing on: The 4 P’s of Marketing SWOT Market Analysis Public Speaking Exercises Business Legalities and Financials Culminating Event:

Mock DECA Districts: A thrilling event held 5 months post-start, simulating the excitement and challenges of real DECA competitions. Bi-Weekly Plan Highlights:

Introduction to DECA & Competitive Events

Market Research & Business Fundamentals

Marketing & Sales Strategies

Financial Literacy & Business Operations

Public Speaking & Presentation Skills

DECA Role-Play Practice

Written Event Development

Team Case Study Preparation

Final Competition Preparations

Mock DECA Competition

Join us at the Youth Business Academy to embark on a transformative journey that will equip you with the skills and confidence to excel in the world of business! Whether you're a student eager to learn or a parent eager to support your child's future, our academy is the perfect place to start. Let's build the leaders of tomorrow today!

The Bergen County Middle School Debate League (BCMSDL) does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military status, or any other categories protected by United States law or identified by the BCMSDL in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.