Shaping the Future of Young Entrepreneurs
By Cody Downing
Carson City is home to a thriving community of young entrepreneurs, many of whom found their footing in the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) program at Carson High School.
Two standout businesses, BobaBabes and Delgado Weddings & Events, are proof that FBLA fosters the confidence, skills, and real-world experience necessary to turn ambitious dreams into successful ventures.
FBLA has long served as a stepping stone for students interested in business and leadership. Designed to equip young minds with financial literacy, strategic planning, and marketing expertise, the program goes beyond textbooks, providing hands-on experience that builds resilience and adaptability.
For Shaylin Segura, Sophia Waite, and Andrea and Eveline Delgado, FBLA was the launchpad that helped transform their business dreams into reality.
of Delgado Weddings & Events
BOBABABES: BREWING SUCCESS ONE CUP AT A TIME
haylin Segura and Sophia Waite first explored entrepreneurship through their business class at Carson High School.
Their first business idea for a food delivery service to be presented at FBLA competition didn’t take off. However, the experience ignited their entrepreneurial drive. Years later during a conversation at the beach, inspiration struck. Having experienced Boston’s boba tea culture, Segura realized Carson City lacked quality boba options. Combining their shared passion for tea and business, the duo launched BobaBabes in 2020.
They started small with coolers at farmers markets, then quickly expanded into a mobile food truck. Their FBLA background proved invaluable and helped them navigate licensing requirements, health codes, and financial planning. Mentors from FBLA and local business community members played a crucial role in securing resources. Today, BobaBabes is a beloved community staple, and Segura and Waite are now considering expanding their business through franchising or a brick-and-mortar location.
DELGADO WEDDINGS & EVENTS: TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY
Sisters Andrea and Eveline Delgado always had a flair for organization and creativity. As a former Carson High FBLA chapter president, Eveline honed her leadership skills and learned the importance of teamwork, budgeting, and client relations. These experiences laid the foundation for Delgado Weddings & Events, a business dedicated to planning and coordinating seamless, memorable events.
From breathtaking wedding venues to corporate gatherings, the Delgado sisters have built a reputation for excellence. Their ability to manage intricate logistics and exceed client expectations stems from the discipline and problem-solving skills they developed in FBLA. Today, they continue to grow their brand, turning clients’ dreams into reality.
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
The success of BobaBabes and Delgado Weddings & Events underscores the transformative power of FBLA. Beyond competitions and classroom lessons, FBLA fosters a mindset of resilience, strategic thinking, and community engagement, all key traits of successful entrepreneurs.
- For aspiring business owners, Segura, Waite, and the Delgado sisters offer this advice:
- Start small but dream big: every business begins with an idea, so don’t be afraid to take the first step.
- Learn from setbacks: challenges will arise, but perseverance and adaptability will set you apart; Never stop learning.
- Surround yourself with support: Seek mentors, attend networking functions, join business organizations, and nurture strong relationships with others.
As these young entrepreneurs continue to make waves in Carson City, they serve as an inspiration to the next generation of business leaders. Thanks to the foundation provided by FBLA, their journeys prove that with passion, preparation, and perseverance, anything is possible.
