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Lucy Williams has been the chief executive, financial officer and marketing expert for her Kidz Kitchen business for the past eight years. For her entrepreneurial efforts, Williams was recently recognized by the Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame. The twist is, she is only a senior at Greenwich Academy, and she created the company when she was 11.
"I have developed games, activities, recipes, budgets and a website," Lucy said. I thought it would be a great one-summer activity, but seven years later I'm still running it and loving it. It has given me insight into my own leadership abilities and helped me prioritize my goals around a possible college curriculum."
When she came home from sleep-away camp in 2002, Lucy told her parents camp was not for her. So her parents advised her to find something creative to do. And a business was born.
For each summer session of Kidz Kitchen at least 12 girls come to her home for a day full of activities. Campers learn to cook recipes and make crafts and end the day with a dip in the pool. The camp is offered in three one-week sessions, from 9 a.m. to noon, for $225. Lucy feels it is important give back to the community, which is why Kidz Kitchen gives 10 percent of its profits to charity. She has also brought the program to a non-profit day care.
At the Connecticut Women's Hall of Fame 17th Annual Induction Ceremony and Celebration Nov. 8, Lucy was surrounded by corporate leaders, business owners and three other students. "Being among such driven, creative and successful women that night was very eye-opening," she said.
"What they all have in common, Lucy said, is determination and willingness to support other women. Their message comes across loud and clear: You have to give all you have no matter what, because you never know when an opportunity may open up."
Lets chat: Do you know any young entrepreneurs? I would like to meet them. Send me an e-mail at acorbett@mainstreetconnect.us.
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