In a heartwarming display of forward-thinking parenting, Reco Oxendine from Pennsylvania recently made headlines for an unconventional gift to his 10-year-old daughter: her very own vending machine. This unique present wasn’t just about instant gratification; it was a strategic move to instill entrepreneurial values and foster financial independence from an early age.
Oxendine’s decision to gift his daughter with a vending machine garnered significant attention after he shared the news on Facebook. The post quickly went viral, sparking admiration and curiosity from thousands of users across social media platforms. Rather than the usual toys or gadgets, Oxendine’s gift represented a long-term investment in his daughter’s future.
“I want her to be a boss,” Oxendine expressed in an interview with Atlanta Black Star. “I want her to understand the value of being a business owner at a young age. So, when it comes to her growing up… and she has to make decisions about how she can earn money, she knows that a job isn’t the only way.”
This isn’t the first entrepreneurial endeavor for Oxendine’s daughter. Since 2016, she has been part of a business called Candy Lovers, alongside her father and friends. Together, they sold candy at various local venues, including barbershops, salons, and sporting events. The profits from this venture were reinvested into vending machines, marking the beginning of a more substantial business journey.
Their vending machine enterprise isn’t just about passive income; it’s a hands-on learning experience. Oxendine and his daughter actively engage in selecting the best locations for their machines and curating the ideal snack selection. By involving her in these decisions, Oxendine is nurturing her entrepreneurial spirit and teaching her valuable lessons about business management.
Furthermore, Oxendine is extending his mission beyond his own family. Through his video series called Next Uplifted, he aims to educate other children about financial literacy and the importance of saving. His dedication to empowering young minds highlights a commitment to building generational wealth and addressing financial disparities, particularly within African-American communities.
Owning and operating vending machines may seem simple, but it requires careful planning and strategic decision-making. From selecting prime locations to managing ongoing maintenance costs, there are various factors to consider for sustained success. However, Oxendine’s story exemplifies how dedication, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose can turn a simple idea into a thriving business venture.
In a world where traditional notions of success often overshadow unconventional paths, Oxendine’s approach serves as a reminder that there are multiple avenues to prosperity. By encouraging his daughter to think outside the box and pursue her entrepreneurial ambitions, he is not only shaping her future but also inspiring others to rethink the possibilities of success.
In an inspiring milestone for the art world and Ghana, one-year-old Ace Liam has etched his name in history as the youngest male artist to hold a Guinness World Record. This extraordinary achievement was confirmed at a press conference in Accra on May 14, 2024, following Liam’s official record attempt between January 18 and January 20, 2024.
Ace Liam’s artistic journey began remarkably early. According to his mother, Chantelle Eghan, the young prodigy started painting at just six months old. His innate talent and early exposure to art were nurtured in a supportive environment, allowing his creativity to flourish. “His paintings are classified as abstract,” Eghan explained. “It was in the presence of my grandmother and I had a commission from Miss Universe to create a kit for the Ghanaian representative to walk on their stage. So, I had a six-month-old baby and I also had to finish my painting.”
The official attempt to secure the Guinness World Record was meticulously organized and conducted in Accra. During the record attempt, Liam had to participate in an exhibition, make sales, and provide comprehensive evidence of the event, including media coverage and social media documentation. This rigorous process ensured that his record was recognized under stringent criteria, solidifying his place in the Guinness World Records.
Ace Liam’s mother, Chantelle Eghan, expressed her gratitude to the Ghanaian community for their overwhelming support. She reflected on the journey and the challenges they faced, particularly the decision on whether to expedite the review of her son’s record attempt or wait patiently for the results. Despite these challenges, the confirmation letter from Guinness World Records brought immense joy and a sense of accomplishment. Click here to read more about Ace.