Los Angeles Scholars Gain Financial, Leadership Skills Through Launch Generation Partnership

This summer, four Posse Los Angeles Scholars—Zoe Sanchez, Julianna Vargas, Joshua Pearson, and Nathan Loza-Batres—participated in the transformative Launch Generation program, a weeklong intensive designed to empower youth with critical financial and leadership skills. Hosted by Cresset Capital Management, the exclusive program offers a highly interactive and engaging curriculum focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership. With the generous support of full scholarships provided by Cresset, all four Posse Scholars fully engaged in this immersive experience.

Throughout the program, Scholars participated in hands-on sessions covering essential topics, including budgeting, credit, business structures, goal setting and resilience, providing a strong foundation in financial concepts while also developing teamwork, critical thinking, and public speaking skills.

"Launch Generation is a program aimed to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders,” shared Cayla Surovsky, an associate in family governance at Cresset.

Workshops led by entrepreneurs, industry experts, and financial educators provided real-world insights, while creative team projects and leadership challenges encouraged students to apply their new skills in practical ways.

Each day brought unique experiences, from scavenger hunts and culinary business challenges to off-site visits with industry professionals. A highlight of the week was a Shark Tank-inspired session, where participants pitched their business ideas to a panel of investors and executives. This final project allowed Scholars to work in teams, developing original business ideas and honing their presentation skills.

“My time at Launch Generation developed my networking skills and how to carry out a business pitch from start to finish,” says Tulane Scholar Zoe Sanchez. “I enjoyed the hands-on experience, especially when I designed an app for our presentation. Discovering my ‘True Colors’ personality helped me understand my teamwork style and how to improve.”

Throughout the week, staff and visiting mentors—including founders and CEOs from various industries—encouraged autonomy while guiding participants with valuable advice drawn from their own journeys. The program’s three pillars—financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership—ensured students walked away with comprehensive, real-world knowledge that would benefit them in their college and career journeys.

"Launch Generation gave me the confidence to rely on my critical thinking to solve any type of problem,” Julianna Vargas shared. “The staff really pushed us to our full potential, and we had daily opportunities to interact with company founders. This program strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in entrepreneurship and finance.”

This collaboration reflects Cresset’s dedication to nurturing the next generation by equipping them with skills essential for financial success and leadership. Each Posse Scholar gained not only practical knowledge but also connections, friendships and a clearer vision of their potential impact on the world.

“We encourage autonomy and independence throughout our program while our professional staff ensure safety and accountability,” noted Cayla Surovsky.

A special thanks goes to Launch Generation Founder Whitney Webb, Co-Directors Rachel Gil and Cayla Surovsky, and Doug Raetz, Co-President of Cresset Sports + Entertainment, for their dedication to making this partnership possible. The full scholarships provided by Cresset allowed these Posse Scholars to fully immerse themselves in this unique learning experience, highlighting Cresset’s commitment to fostering future leaders and supporting diverse pathways to success.