RALEIGH, N.C. – A record number of people have started small businesses during the pandemic, but the steps to getting an idea off the ground can be the most difficult part.
Hanley House, the 2024 Miss America Teen from North Carolina, started a small business using a vinyl cutting machine to create custom designs for T-shirts, pajamas, and more when she was 12 years old.
“When I was 10 years old, I auditioned and was accepted into some of the most respected ballet schools in the country,” House said. “So, of course, like any extracurricular activity, it cost a little bit. So if I want a way to pursue my dreams, I have to help with that cost.”
House, now 16, believes the experience helped him develop real-world skills, which he now uses to help others through his community service project, Profit to Passion. doing.
“I teach students across the country the five steps to success as an entrepreneur. It involves learning meaning, reinvesting in the community, and finally taking action,” House said.
This year’s National Small Business Week will be held from April 28th to May 4th.
Beyond business, House draws inspiration from winning the national title just six months before entering the pageant world as a young Miss North Carolina teen.
“It was great to have this experience. I was able to continue to develop my real-world skills, including interviewing skills and learning all about the Miss America opportunity,” House said. Told. “I won an $80,000 scholarship through the Miss America Opportunity, and I’m so grateful for that. So I can’t wait to continue building relationships as a Miss America Teen.”
Hanley says she hopes to continue her entrepreneurial journey, own her own small business, and one day become an interior designer.
She is a senior at Cleveland High School in Johnston County and is taking college courses through Wake Technical Community College.
