Young Dougherty County entrepreneurs showcase their abilities in FLEX ABY finals

ALBANY – The panel of judges had a tough job picking a winner out of three talented finalists, but ultimately only one could come out on top, with Tabarri Mathis’ tailoring business coming out ahead in the finals of FLEX ABY.

Mathis will represent Dougherty County in the state round of the entrepreneurship competition with Malik’s Perfect Stitch and was awarded $3,000. Samantha Aberdeen and Janessa Robinson’s SJ Apparel was named second place and received a $2,000 award, while Mike’s Saxes was third, with saxophonist Michael Anderson II walking away with a $1,000 check.

During the Friday presentation of the three finalists, held at the Albany State University’s West Campus, judges asked questions and gave feedback on ways that the young entrepreneurs could look to boost their businesses.

“It was a fun experience,” Anderson said. “The judges gave me some great critiques.”

One of the judges suggested to the Westover High School senior that he charge more for his services after Anderson said that his rate of $125 an hour was less than the $200 an adult professional may charge for playing gigs.

Anderson, who plays in his school’s marching and jazz bands, said he plans to attend Albany State University and continue his business of providing music for parties and other events.

“This experience was awesome,” he said. “Even though I didn’t win, I got some money, so I feel like a winner. I’m going to use the money to invest and sustain my business. It was a friendly competition. I am so glad Tabarri won and I’m glad (Aberdeen) won.”

FLEX ABY is a partnership between the Albany Area Chamber Foundation, the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission and the Commodore Conyers College & Career Academy.

“Without 4C, I would not have had the connection, I would not have got my name out,” Anderson said.

For Mathis, a Monroe High School junior, one of the tips the judges gave was to spread the word about his business through social media. He has built a local clientele through word of mouth for his work, which is inspired by the elegant styles of the 1950s and ‘60s.

“It is a really great experience,” he said of FLEX ABY. “Meeting with the different people, meeting community leaders and getting the feedback was great. Getting feedback is very important.

“If I want to launch myself nationally, obviously I’m going to need to use social media.”

For Aberdeen, the money will help grow the business and to recoup some of the money she has put into the custom T-shirts and jewelry venture.

“I plan to use it obviously to pay myself,” she said. “I plan to put some away so in case of a rainy day I’ll have a little put away. I’ll probably start working on my website. I’m going to develop one.

“It was a great experience. I really enjoyed doing all of this. I know I’m going to keep going and keep dreaming.”

Staff Photo: Alan MauldinAlanMauldin[email protected]
Staff Photo: Alan MauldinAlanMauldin[email protected]