Growth & Jobs | Students encouraged to set boundaries and build wealth

STUDENTS ATTENDING the recent JN Financial Academy summer camp were encouraged to be bold when making decisions, understand their value, and embrace the opportunities available in the global economy during a practical presentation on entrepreneurship and career development.

Now in its fourth staging, the virtual summer camp was held under the theme, ‘Building the Future Business Mogul – Diversifying Income for Wealth Creation’.

In a session facilitated by journalist and public speaking coach Javaughn Keyes, he emphasised the importance of staying true to personal values, even in the face of seemingly lucrative opportunities.

“Sometimes you have to say no, even if the opportunity pays well, because it doesn’t align with who you are or where you’re going. Set clear boundaries and know your non-negotiables. Your authenticity is key,” Keyes advised.

Keyes, who was presenting on the topic, ‘Leveraging Talent, Career, and Network to Build an Income-Yielding Brand,’ addressed issues such as self-doubt and imposter syndrome, and urged the young audience to make decisions confidently and recognise their worth.

“You are good enough. Excellence resides in you,” he said, while stressing the importance of trusted mentors who can reinforce that mindset and provide insight into the realities of chosen careers.

Turning to the subject of income, he offered a frank view of certain industries.

“If you’re going into journalism, know that it won’t pay you a heap of money. But if you love it, supplement your income through other means. The same applies to many careers, passion and practicality must go hand in hand,” he informed.

Students were also introduced to the growing potential of the gig economy. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr were highlighted as gateways to earning from anywhere in the world.

“People are being paid for all kinds of services globally. Find what works for you and what aligns with your skills and time,” he said.

Keyes also touched on practical tools such as Google Calendar for time management, QuickBooks for business finances, and even using ChatGPT to build spreadsheets to track income.

He left students with a powerful reminder: “Your potential to be great in business and to create wealth is based on you. It’s your strategies, your mindset, and the skills you already have. The world is your handkerchief – there is no limit to where you can go or what you can achieve.”

Students raised questions about entrepreneurship, exploitation in the workplace, and even how to become a famous singer in Jamaica. Keyes offered reassurance and guidance on how to turn ideas into registered businesses, avoid being taken advantage of, and use platforms like the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission to showcase talent.