Three Mira Costa Students Shine in National Entrepreneurial Competition
In the realm of innovation and entrepreneurship, three Mira Costa High School students have emerged as shining stars on a national stage. Charlotte Fan, Wyatt Newbill, and Taylor Ryan have earned the distinction of being finalists in the prestigious 2024 “Why Didn’t I Think of That?” competition, organized by the Intellectual Property Owner’s Education Foundation (IPOEF). This esteemed contest recognizes young entrepreneurs who have demonstrated exceptional creativity, business acumen, and a knack for problem-solving.
Taylor Ryan: Unstoppable Protective Gear, LLC
In the 16+ age category, Taylor Ryan stands out as the founder and CEO of Unstoppable Protective Gear, LLC. At just 14 years of age, Ryan has revolutionized the sports industry with her invention: the first wearable, flexible set of women’s breast protective cups. Drawing inspiration from her experiences as a lacrosse player, Ryan sought to address the glaring lack of adequate protection for female athletes. Her innovative design provides comfort, confidence, and enhanced performance on the field, empowering women to excel in their chosen sports without fear of injury.
Ryan’s entrepreneurial journey began in 8th grade when she participated in the Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce (MBCC) Young Entrepreneur Academy (YEA!) program. Her exceptional business acumen earned her first place in the program, propelling her to the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) 12th Annual Saunders Scholars National Competition.
As a young female entrepreneur, Ryan recognizes the unique challenges faced by women in the sports industry. She believes that her invention not only fills a critical need but also reflects the changing landscape of women’s sports. Her goal is to empower female athletes with the confidence and protection they need to excel, shattering stereotypes and breaking barriers along the way.
Charlotte Fan and Wyatt Newbill: Terreus, an Eco-Friendly Alternative to Styrofoam
In the 13-15-year-old category, Charlotte Fan and Wyatt Newbill have captured attention with their business Terreus. This eco-friendly venture offers a 100% biodegradable replacement for styrofoam, addressing the growing concerns about microplastic pollution and waste reduction. Terreus is crafted from four simple materials, making it a sustainable and effective alternative to traditional styrofoam.
Fan and Newbill’s passion for environmental stewardship led them to develop Terreus. They recognized the urgent need to address the harmful impact of plastics on the environment and human health. Their invention has gained significant recognition, propelling them through the ranks of the local, state, national, and global Invention Convention competition.
At the state level, Terreus won the Most Marketable Award, securing a provisional patent for the young entrepreneurs. They also achieved remarkable success at the Raytheon Technologies Invention Convention U.S. Nationals, placing 8th overall. These accolades solidified their belief in the potential of Terreus to make a meaningful impact on the world.
Currently, Fan and Newbill are focused on licensing their business, taking Terreus beyond its initial application in shipping and exploring its potential as a comprehensive replacement for styrofoam in various industries.
The “Why Didn’t I Think of That?” Competition
The “Why Didn’t I Think of That?” competition provides a platform for young entrepreneurs like Ryan, Fan, and Newbill to showcase their innovative ideas and business ventures. Finalists are selected based on their original inventions, intellectual property protection, and compelling pitch videos. This contest offers a unique opportunity for these young innovators to connect with industry professionals, receive valuable mentorship, and gain recognition for their entrepreneurial achievements.
The winners will receive business and IP coaching, along with recognition across the IPOEF network, reaching thousands of IP professionals, innovators, and educators. This exposure can be invaluable in helping these young entrepreneurs launch their businesses and make a lasting impact in their respective industries.
Conclusion
The participation of Charlotte Fan, Wyatt Newbill, and Taylor Ryan in the “Why Didn’t I Think of That?” competition is a testament to the remarkable talent and entrepreneurial spirit of Mira Costa High School students. Their innovative ideas, unwavering dedication, and commitment to making a positive impact on the world are truly inspiring. As they navigate the competition and continue to develop their businesses, these young entrepreneurs are poised to shape the future of innovation and sustainability.