West Side High School’s First LEO Riderworks: A Resounding Success

Newark, NJ — June 16, 2025

The Leonidas Foundation is proud to celebrate a major milestone with the successful debut of the LEO (Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Opportunity) Program’s first-ever Riderworks pitch competition at West Side High School in Newark.
The event, modeled after the popular Shark Tank format, brought together ambitious student innovators who pitched their minimum viable products to a panel of respected community leaders and professionals. The energy in the room was electric as students stepped into the spotlight to showcase their creativity, grit, and business savvy.

Taking home the grand prize was team Drawnetics, whose compelling and thoughtful pitch captivated the panel of “Shark” judges and secured the top spot in the competition.

We extend our sincere thanks to our distinguished panel of judges, who generously lent their time and expertise:
    •    Tony Fields, Prudential Financial
    •    Deborah Gregory-Smith, Newark NAACP
    •    Corwin Connor, CEIY

The event culminated in a powerful awards presentation by hip-hop legend Treach and Cicely Criss of Bold Beginnings, whose presence inspired both students and attendees alike.

Special kudos to Bold Beginnings for sponsoring the monetary prize that made this opportunity even more meaningful for our student entrepreneurs. Your investment in youth potential is deeply appreciated and truly impactful.

This unforgettable event would not have been possible without the generous support of Newark Public Schools, Bold Beginnings, and our vibrant community of partners and changemakers — with special thanks to Principal Akbar Cook and the entire West Side High School family.

Together, we are shaping the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. See you next semester!

#WestSideHSPartnership #NewarkPublicSchools #YouthEntrepreneurship #LeonidasFoundation

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