The Neni Market: Empowering Young Entrepreneurs Across Guam
- Ana Vuki
- Apr 24
- 3 min read
The Neni Market, Guam’s first-ever kids entrepreneurship program, is more than just a market—it's a movement. Developed by Inspire Marianas, the program is designed to spark creativity, innovation, and hustle in kids ages 7–12 through a dynamic blend of workshops and a real-world pop-up market experience.
Since launching in September 2022, The Neni Market has seen two successful cycles. In the first year, we welcomed 22 bright young minds, and in 2024, we grew to 26 participants—bringing our total to 48 EntrepreNenis who’ve completed the program so far. That’s 48 kids who’ve taken their first bold steps into the world of small business, armed with confidence, creativity, and community support.
Each cycle includes three fun, hands-on workshops led by the Inspire Marianas team with support from local mentors. Topics range from branding and product development to budgeting and customer service. These workshops culminate in a one-day market event—The Neni Market—where participants launch their businesses and bring their ideas to life.
After completing the program, our young creators officially earn the title of "EntrepreNeni", and many go on to continue building their brand beyond our program.
One of our standout success stories is 3Charms, a business created by Holland, Carmen, and Charlotte. They designed and sold fun, colorful charms for shoes and accessories. Carmen, a participant from our first cycle, returned in the second cycle and brought her friends along for the journey. Together, they formed 3Charms—and they didn’t stop there. The trio has continued to grow their business, appearing at local pop-ups and building a following on Guam. (Follow them on Instagram @charmedthreetimes!)
But what made our second cycle even more special was the addition of participants from Guam’s foster care program. By welcoming these incredible kids into The Neni Market, we created new opportunities for underserved youth to experience entrepreneurship firsthand. To ensure their success, we expanded our resources—offering personalized support, product sourcing help, and one-on-one mentoring throughout the workshops. The result? More inclusion, more impact, and a wider reach for our mission to empower all of Guam’s youth.
Graduates of The Neni Market are also invited to join future Maolek Market events, giving them the chance to sell alongside seasoned local vendors, gain new exposure, and keep building on what they’ve learned.
Another shining example is Rosario, a returning EntrepreNeni who joined us again at Inspire Marianas’ Maolek Market to showcase her hand-drawn artwork and custom products.
And Malachai O’Brien, creator of Cards by Chai, has impressed us with his culturally inspired greeting cards and marine life-themed illustrations. His work continues to evolve, and we’re incredibly proud of his journey.
The Neni Market is more than a program—it’s a launchpad for young dreamers and doers. And we’re just getting started.
“It’s really amazing to see the kids progress from the first workshop to the market event,” said Program Director Victor Calvo. “I enjoy helping them bring their ideas to life and I appreciate all their hard work and commitment to the Neni Market program and events. They truly inspire us all.”
With two successful cycles complete and a wave of positive community response, The Neni Market will return for Cycle 3 in Summer 2025. Parents and aspiring young entrepreneurs are encouraged to join the waitlist now at inspiremarianas.org/thenenimarket to stay updated on future announcements and sign-ups.
The future is bright—and it’s Neni-sized.
Meet other creative EntrepNeni's:
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