Twelve seniors at Fairfield Warde High School are taking their entrepreneurship class beyond the classroom, diving into the real purpose of the course: creating and launching a product. Through Mustang Entrepreneurs Co., they’re designing more than just a sweatshirt—they’re building a brand that captures the essence of Warde pride. From brainstorming to selling, they’re experiencing the full scope of what it takes to run a business, while bringing their classmates together in the process.
From a Simple Idea to Something Bigger
What started as a class assignment quickly grew into a mission: make merchandise that truly reflects what it means to be a Mustang. The group initially brainstormed a graphic T-shirt, but after surveying their classmates, they pivoted to something warmer and more practical: a crewneck sweatshirt.
The design is timeless and bold. A sleek “Mustang” logo sits across the chest, with “Fairfield Warde” proudly displayed. “We wanted something everyone could wear—to games, events, or just around town,” said Head of Marketing Alanna Faith Da Silva. “It’s not just a sweatshirt; it’s a statement.”
Their target audience includes Warde underclassmen and incoming eighth graders who often lack school spirit gear. “Freshmen especially want something cool to wear and show off,” added Alanna. “This is their chance to feel like part of the community from day one.”
How They Made It Happen
Building a business isn’t easy, but Mustang Entrepreneurs tackled every step with creativity and teamwork. A schoolwide survey revealed that students wanted a long-sleeve option, leading to the choice of a crewneck sweatshirt. Team member Reina gathered quotes from several vendors, and the group carefully compared prices and quality before making their decision.
To fund the production of 250 sweatshirts, the students pooled $3,000 through investments from teachers, classmates, and pre-orders. After much debate and guidance from their mentor, Andrea Charles, they set the price at $39—striking a balance between affordability and profit.
With production complete, the crewnecks are ready for sale just in time for winter and the school’s Thanksgiving football game.
The Faces Behind the Business
Mustang Entrepreneurs Co. isn’t just a team; it’s a mini-corporation. With defined roles and responsibilities, they’re learning firsthand how real businesses operate:
- Nate Jackson (CEO): Leads the team and ensures the vision stays on track.
- Alanna Faith Da Silva (Head of Marketing): Promotes the product and drives sales through social media and creative campaigns.
- Amelia Johnson (Head of Operations): Manages logistics, from order tracking to distribution.
- Andrew Blanco (Head of Finance): Handles budgets, investments, and cost projections.
Each leader oversees a smaller team, ensuring every aspect of the business runs smoothly.
Challenges Along the Way
The road to success wasn’t without obstacles. Pricing the sweatshirts sparked intense discussions. Some students wanted a lower price to attract more buyers, but after hearing Andrea Charles’s advice that consumers view $35 and $39 similarly, the group chose the latter.
Collaboration was another hurdle. “At first, we were just 12 random students put together,” said Alanna. “But over time, we’ve learned how to work as a team. Business is unpredictable, and you need to adapt when things don’t go as planned.”
Creative challenges also emerged, especially in marketing. Alanna described the difficulty of coming up with ways to grab attention in a competitive space but found the process rewarding.
Lessons They’ll Never Forget
For the students involved, Mustang Entrepreneurs has been more than just a project. It’s taught them invaluable lessons about teamwork, leadership, and adaptability. Reina, who worked in marketing, shared how this experience confirmed her interest in finance while also highlighting the importance of collaboration.
“Business is about more than just one person,” she explained. “You need everyone to contribute for it to work.” Alanna added that this project has cemented her love for marketing while also sparking an interest in business analytics.
Looking Ahead
The team’s immediate goal is to sell out the crewnecks, which they plan to do through selling during the third lunch wave. Looking further ahead, they hope to inspire the school to make entrepreneurship a full-year course.
“We wish we had more time to learn from this first product and grow,” Alanna said. “But we’re proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited for what’s next.”
Why You Should Support Mustang Entrepreneurs
Behind every sweatshirt is a story of hard work, collaboration, and Warde pride. “We care deeply about what we’re selling,” Alanna said. “Not just because it’s for a grade, but because it represents who we are as a school.”
If you’re looking for a way to show your Mustang pride—or just want a cozy, stylish crewneck—don’t wait. Follow @mustangentrep.co to support this talented group of young entrepreneurs.
Get your crewneck today and wear your Warde spirit proudly!