An upcoming documentary is highlighting the impact youth entrepreneurs can have on the world.
Releasing on Disney+ on March 12, “Own The Room” follows the journey of a handful of student innovators and their ideas on their way to compete for a $100,000 prize at the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA), an annual pitch competition held by Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) – a worldwide community that includes a chapter in Dallas.
“With each generation, those with the entrepreneurial mindset of determination, creativity and problem solving will be the ones that move our world forward,” Adrienne Palmer, former global director at EO and current external engagement lead on the GSEA committee, told NTX Inno via email. “It is important to let them know they are not alone and that their accomplishments will be celebrated and appreciated.”
The film was made by award-winning filmmakers Cristina Costatini and Darren Foster, whose previous documentary “Science Fair” also appeared on Disney+. It is being produced by Shopify Studios and Saville Productions for National Geographic Documentary Films.
“Own The Room” centers on five student entrepreneurs. While not releasing full names or too many details about their ventures, Disney+ said the students come from Nepal, Puerto Rico, Nairobi, Greece, and a Venezuelan immigrant living in New York.
Overall, the filmmakers said the documentary shows how the subjects have overcome immense obstacles, from natural disasters to civil unrest, to develop and present their ideas at the GSEA. And, they are hoping that it inspires others who are thinking of following a similar path.
“Entrepreneurs drive innovation. Entrepreneurs have a social impact focus by nature and will take on the world’s toughest challenges,” Palmer said.
At the GSEA, which was held virtually last year, awards were given for things like innovation, social impact and pivoting, among other things. To participate, students need to be attending college or university and be the founder, owner or primary stakeholder in a business that’s been in operation for at least six months.
The last DFW entrepreneur to win at the global championship was former TCU student Brent Skoda.
EO started in 1987 as the Young Entrepreneurs' Organization, later changing its name to EO in the early 2000s. According to EO, its network has more than 200 chapters and more than 14,000 members spanning 61 countries. The Dallas chapter, which started in 1991, has about 135 members.
“Our future is in good hands, as long as we find ways to support, empower and celebrate entrepreneurs and give them the opportunity to thrive and connect,” Palmer said.
You can check out a trailer for “Own The Room” below.
A previous version of this article stated EO was launched in 2000. It was created in 1987, later changing its name in 2000.
