Students "Dream Big" at Inaugural Communications & Entrepreneurship Day

Prince George's County Public Schools is bolstering student college and career readiness with the launch of the Dream Big Communications and Entrepreneurship Day. This inaugural event brought together students from Crossland, Duval, Suitland, and Northwestern High Schools for a day of immersive learning, professional networking, and career discovery.

Bridging the gap between classroom theory and industry practice, the event offered students a front-row seat to the professional world. Through interactive workshops led by industry leaders, scholars gained a competitive edge in the fast-paced fields of media and entrepreneurship, while learning the art of mastering first impressions.

The "First Impressions" Workshop led by event sponsors  Employ Prince George's and Youth Career Connections, focused on how students can strategically "architect" their online presence. The workshop provided in-depth guidance on personal branding and professional conduct, with facilitators demonstrating the exact standards of excellence expected by modern employers.

“We were honored to sponsor the inaugural Dream Big Entrepreneur and Communication Day. Our mission at Employ Prince George's (EPG) is to enhance the local workforce by creating a demand-driven system that connects residents to high-growth industries,” said Shannon Williamson, Manager of Youth Career Connections. “Supporting the students of Prince George's County is a vital part of that commitment, and we are proud to help equip the next generation of leaders with the communication and entrepreneurial skills they need to thrive in a changing labor market."

The NBC 4 Media Boot Camp offered a deep dive into the fast-paced world of broadcasting. Students received a behind-the-scenes look at content creation, news production, and the technical skills required to succeed in high-stakes media environments.

The Business and Career Discovery Zone powered by Kaiser Permanente, featured 30 local and national organizations, giving students the chance to engage with entrepreneurs, professionals and career recruiters.

"Kaiser Permanente is proud to support opportunities that strengthen our healthcare industry through empowering our greater community,” said Ondrea McIntyre-Hall, Senior Director of Community Health at Kaiser Permanente, Mid-Atlantic States. “We believe that health starts with strong, connected communities where people have access to healthy food, stable housing, economic opportunity, and supportive care. Career development is an integral part of total health."

The event also included a "Lunch & Learn" segment where students received a master class in entrepreneurship with keynote speaker, Imani Ford, a McDonald's Owner-Operator who operates seven restaurants and employs more than 500 people in Prince George's County. Her presentation highlighted the realities of local entrepreneurship and demonstrated how world-class leadership and business success is attainable.

“Our inaugural Communications and Entrepreneurship Day was about proving to our students that no dream is too big when you have the right tools,” said Denise Douglas, Associate Superintendent of Communications and Engagement. “By connecting them with over 30 industry leaders from media to aviation, we are doing more than just educating; we are empowering them to navigate their own futures and launching the next generation of leaders."

The success of this inaugural event was made possible through the collaboration and support of sponsors including Employ Prince George's, Youth Career Connections, Kaiser Permanente and Discovery Education. 

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