The Entrepreneur Educational Center, Inc (EECI) hosted an orientation event last weekend at Ted Watkins Memorial Park in Watts to kick off its 2024 vocational training and small business development programs. The purpose of the event was to introduce the attendees to the experts who will conduct courses and the program benefits of starting a small business or nonprofit, gaming, animation, or a certification as an Open Water Diver.
EECI is a non-profit organization that provides entrepreneurship and if the business plan is completed, EECI starts the DBA or Nonprofit Agency for minorities to enhance diversity in industries where minorities are underrepresented. As a trusted community partner for over 20 years, all the courses and training materials are completely free, and diving equipment such as wetsuits and oxygen tanks will be provided to all enrollees at no additional cost.
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Saturday’s event included speeches delivered by State Senator Steven Bradford, Councilman Tim McOsker- 15th District, Councilman Curren Price, 9th District, and Compton City Councilman Jonathan Bowers 3rd District. Additionally, Ed Rice, EECI board chair and Popeye’s Famous Chicken franchisee, and Commissioner Ozie B. Gonzaque, former HACLA board chair, trailblazing activist from Watts, and mother of EECI founder Barbara J. Stanton, shared some words with the group.
“It’s important to expose our young people to opportunities in business and careers,” said Councilman Price. “This is an exciting chance to give people a hands-on experience to meet some people and make some contacts to expand their dreams,” he added.
Wallesha Bedford, 32, aspires to own a bakery. The confectionery enthusiast attended the event to learn how she can next level her baking business from her home. “I would like to start a bakery,” said Bedford. “I did make cakes for a living, but now I do it on the side because I transitioned into another career, but baking cakes is my first passion. I want to have a large clientele,” she added.
Stanton said EECI is committed to enrolling as many students as possible to help empower their dreams. “We love South Los Angeles and believe there are a lot of people who have dreams of business ownership or who want to transition into an exciting career in gaming, animation, and our newest Open Water Diving Program” said Stanton. “We’re here to help turn those dreams into a reality.”
It’s not too late to sign up and be a part of EECI’s free courses. There are two more program registration dates: Saturday, March 23, and Saturday, March 30. Orientation which will be held at the organization’s office at 555 West Redondo Beach Blvd. in Gardena. EECI is requesting that people RSVP by calling 323-757-7506 or emailing [email protected].
