Little Rock Students Host 'Boss Up' Entrepreneurship Event

Southwest High School partners with community center to empower next generation of business leaders

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:49am

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A minimalist studio still life photograph featuring a collection of premium office supplies and stationery items arranged in a clean, elegant composition, conceptually representing the tools and materials used by young entrepreneurs to bring their business ideas to life.A showcase of the entrepreneurial spirit and drive of Little Rock's young business leaders.Little Rock Today

Students at Little Rock Southwest High School, in collaboration with the Southwest Community Center, hosted a 'Boss Up' entrepreneurship event on Saturday. The event gave young entrepreneurs the opportunity to set up their own shops, sell products, and gain valuable real-world experience from local business leaders.

Why it matters

The 'Boss Up' event aims to cultivate entrepreneurial skills and confidence in the next generation, empowering students to turn their ideas into action. By partnering with the local community center, the high school is providing valuable resources and mentorship to foster the growth of young business owners.

The details

The 'Boss Up' event featured student-run shops where young entrepreneurs were able to sell their own products to guests. Marketing teacher Renitia Bullard noted that she has seen students 'blossom' and build their confidence through the class and the event. Student Jacolbie Baines, founder of 4ShowHustle, said 'Boss Up means to me, just keep growing, growing every day' and 'just becoming a boss'.

  • The 'Boss Up' event took place on Saturday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Little Rock Southwest High School

A public high school in Little Rock, Arkansas that collaborated with the Southwest Community Center to host the 'Boss Up' entrepreneurship event.

Southwest Community Center

A community organization in Little Rock that partnered with Little Rock Southwest High School to put on the 'Boss Up' event.

Renitia Bullard

A marketing teacher at Little Rock Southwest High School who has seen her students 'blossom' and build confidence through the 'Boss Up' program.

Jacolbie Baines

A student at Little Rock Southwest High School and the founder of the business 4ShowHustle, who participated in the 'Boss Up' event.

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What they’re saying

“I've seen students blossom, their confidence build. They now have figured out a way through the class and the 'Boss Up' Shop to make their own money.”

— Renitia Bullard, Marketing Teacher, Little Rock Southwest High School

“Boss Up means to me, just keep growing, growing every day, you know what I'm saying? Just becoming a boss. Just developing each and every day.”

— Jacolbie Baines, Student and Founder, 4ShowHustle

What’s next

The 'Boss Up' event is expected to continue as an annual program, providing ongoing opportunities for students at Little Rock Southwest High School to develop their entrepreneurial skills and connect with local business leaders.

The takeaway

The 'Boss Up' entrepreneurship event demonstrates how schools can partner with community organizations to empower the next generation of business owners. By fostering hands-on learning and mentorship, the program is helping students build confidence and turn their ideas into action, preparing them for future success.