Youth Changemakers' Feature - Dreams to Business

Welcome to another Youth Changemakers’ Feature! I interviewed the CEO of Dreams to Business Kaitlyn Letien about how she is creating an accessible foundation for future entrepreneurs.

With over 20 chapters and an international presence through engaging workshops, Dreams to Business is an ambitious yet highly accomplished youth nonprofit. Dreams to Business transforms school classrooms and communities into spaces where innovation, passion, and confidence thrive. The organization has empowered students as young as six years old to push beyond boundaries and manage a business. From candle making to earring styling and even community fundraising, ideas formed from Dreams to Business’ interactive workshops are bringing out the best in youth. 

1. What was your inspiration for starting your organisation?

“I’ve always believed that every kid deserves the chance to dream big and learn how to bring their ideas to life,” Letien said. “I started Dreams to Business because I saw a gap, so many kids don’t get the opportunity to learn about things like money, creativity, or how to start something of their own. I wanted to create something that made business fun and accessible for kids everywhere.”

The Dreams to Business team supporting a student at a business fair!

2. What major issues or complications have you faced, and how did your team overcome them?

Creating and sustaining such a large organization has its setbacks. Outreach and communication are hefty tasks, requiring resilience and dedication. 

“One challenge has been managing a growing team and expanding across different countries. It's exciting but also overwhelming at times. We had to learn how to stay organized, communicate better, and support each other even when things didn’t go perfectly. Being flexible, setting clear expectations, and checking in regularly really helped us stay on track.”

Building a strategy, throwing yourself into marketing, and collaborating with team members you may never get to meet in person seems daunting. However, taking risks is how students grow. 

3. What goals does your organisation have for future projects, and where do you see yourselves expanding over the following years?

“We’re currently working on launching free and accessible business resources for anyone to use," said Letien. "Long-term, I see us growing into more schools and communities around the world. I’d love for Dreams to Business to be something any kid can access, no matter where they live or what resources they have.”

And their team is not so far from reaching their goals. Dreams to Business has several workbooks published which seek to inspire young entrepreneurs. These resources are engaging and push for creative thought without any pressure or a strict syllabus. ‘Beads to Business’ teaches children how to manage a jewelry-making business with accessible rhetoric and colorful infographics. ‘Words to Business’ is intended for more advanced readers and includes essential terminology for young professionals. Growing confidence and promoting innovation are two core aspects of Dreams to Business’ mission. 

4. What advice would you give to aspiring young innovators and youth who want to make a difference in their community or on a global scale?

“Just start,” Letien said. “You don’t need to have everything figured out. What matters most is caring about something and taking action. Use your voice, follow your curiosity, and don’t be afraid to mess up. The impact you make doesn’t have to be huge right away, small steps add up and can lead to something bigger than you ever expected.”

Small steps are a powerful way forward in any endeavor, including business. Getting involved has no age restriction. Rather, starting early comes with its own reward and validation after hard work.

Contact Information

Learn more about Dreams to Business and get involved with their contests and events:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dreamstobusiness/

Website: https://www.dreamstobusiness.org/

Email: info@dreamstobusiness.org