Folsom student places high in national business competition

A Folsom resident and St. Francis High School student is celebrating after her team placed second runner-up in the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) High School Business Pitch Competition, powered by Junior Achievement of Sacramento. Sophomore Gemma Frisch of Folsom and her teammate Alexandra Wallace developed an app, Specialized Care for Kids, to connect trusted sitters with families who need reliable, specialized and flexible support. They were awarded $100. "Competing in the National Association of Women Business Owners program through Junior Achievement pushed me in the best way," said Frisch. "The mentorship and hands-on experience helped me see both the challenges and possibilities of starting a business. More than anything, my confidence grew and I learned how to present professionally. It's an experience that has truly prepared me for college and beyond." To enter the competition, teams developed original business concepts and worked on marketing plans and detailed financial models before delivering a formal presentation and business plan in front of a panel of several local female business leaders. A team of St. Francis juniors earned first runner-up with Serenlinq, a Near Field Communication (NFC)-enabled productivity and wellness tool designed as a fashionable accessory. The experience program wraps up March 7 with the NAWBO Outstanding Women Leaders Gala and Awards, where students are recognized for their hard work and success. Michelle McCauley is a student at St. Francis High School.