The 2025 Career ChoICE Youth Expo brought together thousands of students from across Southern Virginia to explore the many career and education pathways available in our region. Hosted by the Institute for Advanced Learning & Research and partners, the event offered a hands-on look at local industries—from healthcare and manufacturing to technology and small business.
The RISE Entrepreneurship Booth, presented by the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center and SOVA Innovation Hub, introduced students to a different kind of career path: entrepreneurship. Through interactive discussions and activities, students learned that starting a business can be a powerful way to shape their own futures, solve community challenges, and turn creative ideas into real opportunities.
The booth was designed by Jocelyn Forest, RISE Entrepreneurship Education Coordinator, with event support from volunteers Laura Coleman, CIC Entrepreneurial Impact Manager; Tiffany Ferrell, founder of CAREFully Anchored and member of the SOVA Innovation Hub coworking space; and Demaya Coleman, a 2025 Halifax County High School alumnus who completed the RISE Student Entrepreneurship Curriculum during her senior year.
By engaging with the RISE booth, students experienced how entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business—it’s about creativity, problem-solving, and leadership. The RISE team was inspired by the excitement and curiosity students brought to the conversation and looks forward to helping schools across the region bring this kind of innovative learning into their classrooms.
Want to bring entrepreneurship to your classroom or club?
Contact Jocelyn Forest at jocelynforest@svhec.org or 434-572-5483 to learn more about the RISE Student Entrepreneurship Program.