B U S I N E S S + C U LT U R E 35 extinction of bees by donating a portion of the company’s profits to bee research efforts. Riley McDowell, CEO of Underground Farms, said the program not only allowed him the chance to develop his business plan but meet other students who share his dream of starting a business. “My favorite part of the program would have to be the connections that we made with leaders and mentors in the business community,” McDowell said, “and with other students who have the same interests and goals.” McDowell explains that his business concept is focused on growing worms, compost, and castings. “With more people caring about sourcing local or growing their own food, soil health is key. My business unlocks the most important resource for that naturally and locally,” he said. “Whether a person needs the black gold of compost or the worms themselves for the garden or some good old fashion fishing, I’ll be there to meet their needs.” McDowell said he would recommend the YEA! program to others. “Everyone has thoughts about easier ways things could be done or new products that would change the world, so why not take advantage of those thoughts?” The 2018-2019 YEA! class will begin in August. Applications will be accepted from middle and high school students. For more information, email YEA! coordinator DeWayne Johnson at johnson.yea@valdostachamber.com 2017-2018 YEA! CLASS Dominique Bennett Irelynn Bono Autumn Brooks Alexis Carmichael Truman Crow Jalen Denton Cherelle Hutcherson Riley McDowell Cedric Montgomery Caden Powell Hunter Shelton Mykel Sherman Carlos Torres www.valdostachamber.com Cedric Montgomery, CEO of Bee the Change Farms