Here's something you might not have known: Gen Z is all about the business scene. We've noticed the trends, and it's obvious how drawn this generation is to starting businesses at a young age. "Why is that?", you might be wondering. The answer is plain and simple: Gen Z is born into the boom of the entrepreneurial message.

At this point in time, it is quite normal to see kid CEOs. A good example would be Mo’s Bow’s founder and owner, Moziah Bridges, who started his business at the young age of nine. Today, his startup earns to $150,000 a year. From featuring in popular magazines, employing several workers (waaaayyy older than himself, might we add), and even going on Shark Tank, Moziah stands as an inspiration to kids and adults alike.

Gen Z Arts and Gifts Opens

If you happen to be in the Outer Banks in Northern Carolina, you might be able to witness another young entrepreneur laying the seeds of her business. Lauren Smith, the 17-year-old owner of Gen Z Arts and Gifts moved from Virginia Beach to Outer Banks with her family a couple of months ago. An aspiring artist herself, Lauren confided in her mother about how she didn’t want to work for someone after graduating from high school.

OBX Today | Let’s just say if every kid had a mom like Lauren’s, they’d grow up not wanting for anything in the world.

Michelle Smith, Lauren's mother, was quick to advise the young artist to start her own business. Mrs. Smith strongly believes that the best kind of job is working for yourself, a notion further strengthened from being in a retired military family.

Michelle is paying the shop's rent for the first year, just until Lauren figures out what being a business owner actually entails. Seeing as Lauren opened for business just about a week ago, the response is seemingly positive, with many local artists signing up to have their products sold at the store.

OBX Today | Lauren is also revolutionizing art in a way by providing a space where people can express themselves

How Did the Family End Up in Outer Banks?

For starters, none of the Smiths knew they would be laying down roots in Outer Banks. When the pandemic hit, like most other American families, they set out to escape the hustle-bustle of urban life in the midst of the crisis. Driving up to Asheville, they saw no possibility of it being their future hometown. However, they stopped over in Outer Banks on the drive back to Virginia, and the rest is history.

OBX Today | Lauren tries to accommodate as much local art as she possibly can in her store

Bottom Line

Many things in life can be scary and the uncertainty itself can be enough to put ourselves off of great ideas. The lessons we must take from entrepreneur kids is to never doubt yourself out of a good idea. See it through. What must happen will happen. Secondly, for parents with enthusiastic children, give your child the freedom and space to grow, all the while providing them a steady spine to rely on.

You never know what idea might strike in a community – and believe it or not, your kids might have a better understanding of the current world than you do.