'Next on Greenwood' program inspires Tulsa youth to build bold futures

In the wake of a community tragedy, one Tulsa organization is investing in the next generation by helping young people dream big and build boldly.

❓ What is “Next on Greenwood: Vision Builders Academy”?

It’s a new youth entrepreneurship program offering hands-on learning and real-world business experience for young people in North Tulsa. The goal: empower kids with tools to create, own, and lead.

❓ Why was the program launched now?

Organizers say the idea was born out of heartbreak.

Meghan Scott, founder of the Original Black Wall Street Marketplace:

“I did have a few vendors that was there when the Juneteenth shooting kicked off. It really provoked something in me to just get out there and find a solution to what our youth need,” Scott said.

Scott says the tragedy sparked a mission to give youth hope, purpose, and economic power.

❓ What do students learn?

Each week focuses on a different topic — from leadership and marketing to product creation and branding. Students also hear directly from local business owners who look like them and come from their own neighborhoods.

Meghan Scott:

“I wanted to expose the children's minds... to have them imagine something after graduation — something they can own and create,” Scott said.

❓ Who’s already standing out?

Meet Kha’Mari Daniels, a 14-year-old entrepreneur who launched Pretty Girl Lemonade at just 7 years old.

Kha’Mari Daniels:

“We do lip gloss, candy pickles, Kool-Aid pickles, candy grapes, cocoa bombs in the winter, cheesecakes — and we also do t-shirts,” Daniels said.

Her business, which started in her grandmother’s garage, now has a website, a growing customer base, and plans to expand even more.

“I want to explore outside of what we already do,” she says.

❓ What’s next for the program?

Organizers are already planning two more youth-focused initiatives launching in 2026.

Meghan Scott:

“It showed that our kids really know what they want. They have dreams,” Scott said.