ENTREPRENEURSHIP: AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO IMPACTING THE COMMUNITY

Characterized by perseverance and defined as “one who undertakes,” the entrepreneur stands at the crossroads of innovation, inspiration, and social change.

Entrepreneurship is more than a skill; it is also a lifestyle that requires imagination and the willingness to take risks without a safety net. Entrepreneurs do not see the world as it is, but instead how they can improve it. By examining creative minds such as those of the Wright Brothers, Henry Ford, and Steve Jobs, we can see how entrepreneurs have pursued ideas that others may have deemed ridiculous, crazy, or unconventional. Having the passion to make the world a better place, combined with the belief that this is a possible feat, can motivate entrepreneurs to transform a big picture idea into reality. However, taking an idea and bringing it to life calls for the proper exploration, development, and implementation of various skills.

An entrepreneur's idea is not just created to provide the public with a new product or service, but also with an opportunity for growth. For instance, the vision of the Google Community Leaders Program is to share with communities the necessary education and tools training to assist them in taking advantage of useful, yet often unknown, resources. An ideal goal in bridging the digital divide among communities is to enable people of all ages and demographics to achieve a sense of digital literacy, and to incorporate important tools and newfound skills into everyday life.

As emergent leaders within our surrounding communities, each of us has the power to help identify prevalent problems that contribute to widespread issues, such as the digital divide, and encourage members of those communities to help create and implement potential solutions. By seeking an understanding of those around us, forming interpersonal connections, and spreading knowledge, an entrepreneur can set the foundation for social change.