Entrepreneur Profile: Fun into Profit

February 2008

The Youth Center in Marceline is a place where kids can hang out with their friends, play games, skateboard, and dance. At least once a month the Center hosts a dance night for area youth. DJs Kendra Efker and Emmanuel Moore have become indispensible parts of Youth Center dance nights by providing an upbeat atmosphere. These two 4-H members began their own DJ service about a year ago and since their start have been busy working various dances and weddings.

Emanuel and Kendra didn’t plan to become DJs.  Because they were given an opportunity to purchase a complete package of equipment at a very reasonable price, they invested $2500 of their own funds for speakers, amplifier, laptop, lights, and 4000 songs. Initially the cost was intimidating, but eventually the two agreed to split the cost of the equipment knowing that the Youth Center would benefit from dances.

The investment has paid off! These young entrepreneurs have already recouped the cost of the equipment and are enjoying the benefits of running their own service business. “If I would have known how much fun it was going to be, I wouldn’t have hesitated,” said Emmanuel.

Becoming DJs has been a learning experience. Emmanuel was familiar with electrical equipment, but neither youth had any previous DJ experience and both had to learn more about music. They observed other DJs and took note of what the crowd did and didn’t like. They had to get a feel for songs with good beats and make sure the tunes were age appropriate for their audience. At times, Emmanuel and Kendra have had to deny friends who requested songs the two DJs felt were inappropriate.

Kendra and Emmanuel have proven successful with their business investment. They both have other jobs working with family members, but plan to keep up their DJ business throughout high school. Part of their success comes from their financial sense and their willingness to learn. Kendra suggests that other entrepreneurs who are considering starting a business “examine all costs before getting into it.”

Kendra and Emmanuel are thankful for the help their parents have provided. They also wish to extend thanks to Donnie Evans, the man who sold them the equipment and who has been on call to help with problems. 

Do you know a 4-H young entrepreneur?  Send profile ideas to Adam Loftin, 4-H Center for Youth Development, at 573/884-7929 or acl7f4@mizzou.edu.