At Akins Early College High School, there are students who stand out not just for what they accomplish, but for how they show up with curiosity, determination, and heart. Carolina is one of those students. Being recognized through the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® scholarship in partnership with Junior Achievement is such a meaningful milestone, and a reflection of the journey she has been building over the past two years.
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year®: Investing in the Next Generation
The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® program is one of the most respected recognitions for leaders who are building and growing impactful businesses. What makes this moment even more special is EY’s partnership with Junior Achievement to celebrate young entrepreneurs who are just getting started.
Through this partnership, one outstanding senior from the JA Company Program is selected each year for their entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, and the company they built. Carolina represents all of that and more. Her recognition is not only well deserved, it is also a powerful reminder of what is possible when students are given access to opportunity and support.
A Journey Built Through Experience
Over the past two years, Carolina fully leaned into everything Junior Achievement had to offer. She began with JA Be Entrepreneurial, where she built a strong foundation in entrepreneurial thinking and learned how to take an idea and quickly shape it into something real. From there, she stepped into the JA Company Program and did exactly that, launching and running her own business.
Along the way, she pushed herself to grow in new environments. She competed in the E2 area-wide pitch competition, participated in the Baylor Innovation Challenge, and found her voice as a student speaker at JA Summit. She also strengthened her financial knowledge through JA Finance Park, gaining real-world skills that will stay with her far beyond high school.
What stands out most is not just the number of experiences, but how she used each one to grow. Junior Achievement creates layers of opportunity for students. It starts with building confidence, then moves into developing real, practical skills. From there, students begin to demonstrate leadership and professionalism, and ultimately gain access to networks and opportunities that can change their trajectory. Carolina embraced every layer of that journey.
Building 1st St. Mug
Carolina’s entrepreneurial spirit came to life through her company, 1st St. Mug, which she co-founded with her partner Kelly at Akins. What started as an idea turned into a business that offered craft coffee, matcha, and sweet treats to her community.
There is something special about watching students take ownership of a concept and bring it to life together. Through their partnership, Carolina and Kelly created more than just a product. They built an experience that reflects creativity, collaboration, and a strong connection to their customers. It is clear in the way they approached every aspect of the business.
Looking Ahead to GenBridge
Carolina is already thinking about how she can use her skills to make a difference. Together with her partner Kelly, she also co-founded the idea for GenBridge, a future venture centered on connecting generations by providing technology support to individuals in nursing homes.
It is thoughtful and purpose driven. It addresses a real need and creates space for connection, learning, and dignity. That kind of vision speaks volumes about who Carolina is and the kind of leader she is becoming.
Gratitude for a Community of Support
Milestones like this never happen in isolation. They are shaped by people who show up, encourage, guide, and believe.
A sincere thank you to EY for investing in students and creating opportunities like this scholarship. Thank you to Anna Horndahl and Desiree Triolo for your leadership and commitment to making this partnership meaningful.
To Jackie Ward, thank you for creating a classroom where entrepreneurship is alive and students feel empowered to try, fail, and grow. To Marc Rankin and Mary Mahlie, thank you for the steady support and encouragement you bring into the learning environment. And to the many mentors who have walked alongside Carolina, your influence is clear in who she has become.
A Bright Future Ahead
Carolina’s story is just getting started. From co-founding 1st St. Mug to dreaming up GenBridge, she is already showing what it looks like to lead with both vision and purpose.
She plans to begin her college journey at Austin Community College, where she will study business and engineering. It is an exciting next chapter that will give her even more tools to build, innovate, and lead.
More than anything, Carolina represents what we hope for every student: confidence, curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to take action. It has been an honor to watch her grow, and there is no doubt that what comes next will be just as impactful.
Carolina, we at JA, your educators, EY, your mentors, and your parents are beyond proud of you and are so excited for your future.
“You're off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, So... get on your way!”― Dr. Seuss, Oh, the Places You’ll Go!
