ELKHART, Ind. (WNDU) – Programs like “Startup Moxie Elkhart County” are taking students out of traditional classrooms with textbooks and offering them real-life experiences in business management. This inspired Daphne Cid, a junior at Goshen High School, to combine her life experiences with her passion for business.
Cid, an American with Mexican heritage, is already making a name for herself in the community as a budding business owner. She was voted “People’s Choice” during the Startup Moxie Pitch Showcase, which took place at the Tolson Center in Elkhart. The event featured 18 students from various schools presenting their startup ideas to the public and a panel of judges.
Nine Goshen High School students participated in the showcase, and Cid placed third in the competition. Winning $500 for her business idea aimed at providing resources for immigrant teenagers in the Goshen area to practice English and build community connections outside of school.
Additionally, an anonymous donor gave those who placed an additional $500. Getting voted “People’s Choice” earned her an extra $250, bringing her total prize money to $1,250.
Cid’s business pitch was inspired by her father’s struggles with learning English after moving from Mexico. She says she has always had a soft spot for people in these situations and recognizes the challenges faced by non-native speakers, she developed a concept that not only helps teenagers learn a second language but also fosters a sense of community.
This year, a total of $3,500 in prize money was awarded to the top three finishers.
Alongside Daphne, other Goshen High School students who participated in the event include Lukenza Laguerre, Williams Luque, Myles McLaughlin, Elena Olguin, Rebeca Rodriguez, Braxten Sheets, Levi Subera, and Cristian Valdez.
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