Empoweringtomorrow'sentrepreneurs

Joshua Paul Hooks is a serial entrepreneur and consultant known for scaling startups into nationally recognized brands. As the founder of Iconic Brand Group, Joshua helps founders and investors transform ideas into high-growth ventures by combining operational systems, creative marketing, and global market strategy. His career includes consulting for startups and Fortune 500 companies alike, guiding them through product development, branding, and U.S. market entry. Driven by family, community, and a passion for building impactful businesses, Joshua brings a rare mix of visionary leadership and hands-on execution to every project he touches.

Kevin Harrington is an internationally recognized entrepreneur, investor, and pioneer of modern direct-to-consumer marketing. As the original "Shark" on the hit television show Shark Tank and the inventor of the infomercial, Kevin has launched and scaled hundreds of companies worldwide. He has played a pivotal role in the growth of iconic consumer brands, including helping drive the global success of Celsius. With decades of experience in product commercialization, capital strategy, and brand scaling, Kevin brings unmatched insight, credibility, and mentorship to the Young Entrepreneurs of America board.

Thomas Thompson serves as Secretary of the Board for Young Entrepreneurs of America, bringing decades of legal expertise and governance leadership to the organization. A highly awarded business attorney and litigator, Thomas has been Board Certified in Civil Trial Law for over 15 years and is widely respected for his work in complex commercial disputes. His experience advising major corporations and agencies ensures strong governance, compliance, and integrity as YEA scales nationally.

Sarah Blakely serves as Treasurer of the Board for Young Entrepreneurs of America, bringing a founder-first mindset and exceptional financial discipline to the organization. As the founder of Spanx, Sarah built one of the most successful consumer brands in the world from the ground up. Her experience in capital efficiency, scaling responsibly, and long-term value creation helps ensure YEA's financial stewardship supports sustainable growth and maximum impact for young entrepreneurs nationwide.

Turner Tenney, widely known as TFUE, serves on the Board of Young Entrepreneurs of America, bringing firsthand experience as an early entrepreneur in the gaming, YouTube, and digital media space. As one of the most influential creators in esports and online entertainment, Turner built a global brand through innovation, discipline, and audience-first thinking. His perspective helps YEA connect with modern youth entrepreneurship, digital business models, and creator-led ventures shaping the future economy.

This could be you!... Young Entrepreneurs of America intentionally reserves an open board seat at each meeting for a youth representative, ensuring the voices and perspectives of the young entrepreneurs we serve are always present. This practice keeps YEA grounded in real youth experience, informed by the needs of the next generation, and aligned with its mission to build programs shaped by those they are designed to empower.

Alexandra Reed serves as Executive Director of Young Entrepreneurs of America, leading the organization's mission, operations, and national growth strategy. With experience scaling mission-driven organizations, Alexandra focuses on partnerships, fundraising, and building sustainable programs that empower young entrepreneurs nationwide.

John Aguilar serves as Chief Operating Officer of Young Entrepreneurs of America through Iconic Brand Group. With deep expertise in systems, logistics, and organizational design, John ensures YEA operates efficiently, scales responsibly, and delivers high-impact programs across communities nationwide.

Michael Bennett serves as Chief Financial Officer of Young Entrepreneurs of America, overseeing financial strategy, budgeting, and compliance. With a background in nonprofit finance and organizational growth, Michael ensures strong fiscal stewardship, transparency, and long-term sustainability in support of YEA's national mission.

Danielle Morgan serves as Chief Development Officer of Young Entrepreneurs of America, leading fundraising, donor relations, and corporate partnerships. With a proven track record in nonprofit development, Danielle focuses on securing resources that expand access, equity, and opportunity for young entrepreneurs nationwide.

Rebecca Lawson serves as Chief Program Officer of Young Entrepreneurs of America, overseeing curriculum, competitions, mentorship, and incubator initiatives. With experience in education and youth development, Rebecca ensures YEA's programs are impactful, scalable, and aligned with real-world entrepreneurial outcomes.

Brennen Lesser, founder of Lesser Media, serves as Chief Marketing Officer of Young Entrepreneurs of America. With over 15 years of experience in brand building and digital marketing, Brennen leads YEA's national storytelling, media strategy, and audience growth.