Four BRYC seniors have been selected for the Young Entrepreneurs Academy 2025-2026 cohort

Each Young Entrepreneur will be mentored by Baton Rouge business leaders and compete in a community pitch competition. Meet them now!

By Elin Hawkinson
Left to right: Zahara Firven, Rodrick Joseph, Jaylen Lewis, Anńa-Liza Washington
Left to right: Zahara Firven, Rodrick Joseph, Jaylen Lewis, Anña-Liza Washington

Zahara Firven

  • High School: Zachary High School
  • Graduating Year: 2026
  • Entrepreneurial Dream: To improve health and safety in communities often overlooked by innovation.
  • Fun Fact: After serving as Treasurer of the Student Government Association, Zahara was elected Senior Class President.

Rodrick Joseph

  • High School: Home School
  • Graduating Year: 2026
  • Entrepreneurial Dream: To achieve my potential for success.
  • Fun Fact: Rodrick is a finalist for the Leading Scholar Award, which offers a full-ride scholarship to Michigan Tech University.

Jaylen Lewis

  • High School: MSA East Academy
  • Graduating Year: 2026
  • Entrepreneurial Dream: To elevate your experience with the most popular foods in America.
  • Fun Fact: Jaylen was named MSA Academy East and Iberville Parish Student of the Year.

Anña-Liza Washington

  • High School: Baton Rouge Magnet
  • Graduating Year: 2026
  • Entrepreneurial Dream: To increase access to sustainable beauty and self-worth.
  • Fun Fact: Anña-Liza won a $2,000 scholarship from 100 Black Men Metro Baton Rouge for her video promoting financial literacy.