Frostbite's Frozen Ice!

Ever since I was four, I dreamed of running my own lemonade or ice cream stand, picturing kids swarming my stall, their faces lighting up as I handed out ice-cold treats. The sheer thrill of being the one serving up happiness was like a sugar rush in itself. I think "The Duck Song" on youtube may have played a role in this childhood fantasy of mine.

Fast forward a few years to 6th grade, when that dream finally turned into reality—thanks to the kind social entreprenuer teacher at my school who gave me my first entrepreneurial break @ the school's fall fest marketplace. Turned out, I was the only middle schooler to set up shop among the upperschoolers - well, apparently, I had plenty of syrup, ice, and entrepreneurial spirit!

With my Amazon supplies of six 8-ounce syrup bottles and 150 cups, I thought I was set for the day. But three hours later, every last snow cone was gone! I had made $300 in a single afternoon, all with the help of two friends who shaved ice and counted $ like pros. And that was the beginning of "Shaved Ice", my very first business venture, where I discovered just how sweet success could be.

Over the years, I took my shaved ice business on the road (well, around school, anyway), selling at varsity games, and events like the car show. If there was a crowd, I was there, ready to bring the chill!

In the summer of 2024, I got an unexpected opportunity. The school summer camp director asked if I would like to serve shaved ice treats to the Freedom School kids on campus, and of course, I jumped at the chance. It wasnt just about selling shaved ice this time; it felt like I was giving something back. I have kept that check as a souvenir and yet to encash it - I will, soon - I have a plan.😎