Dedication, initiative and heart guide youth into a cultural business venture

Observer Staff

7/5/2005 12:00:00 AM

An imaginative combination of culture and clothing, as well as a knack for business and an eye for style, has Tribal youth Sarah Ballew in stitches-literally.

Sewing, beading and designing are nothing new to the Pokagon Potawatomi and Saginaw Chippewa descendant, as she has applied these and many other talents toward creating her regalia for the past several years.

But now the poised Shepherd Middle School student is applying her skills and expanding her horizons to follow a path of fashion design.

Sarah was recently approved for a rural youth loan to start her own small business, Rez Kid Productions-a clothing line for Native youth.

Since the sixth grade honor roll student spends most weekends traveling the country participating in powwows with her family, the venture seemed to be a �perfect fit'.

The talented fancy shawl dancer has not only gained arena experience, but also forged a work ethic that lead to this endeavor.

On several occasions, Sarah has worked for the powwow vendor Two Eagles Art & Design who specializes in Native apparel. The young entrepreneur usually helps with set-up, sales and packing.

"Sarah is a hard working young girl," commented Todd Harder, owner of Two Eagles Art & Design. "Even at her age, I know I can trust her dedication to work hard and maintain positive interaction with customers."

Sarah's sale merchandise will include beaded eyewear accessories, Native logo youth purses, Native logo youth t-shirts and Native themed throw pillows. She will lease space at the Two Eagles Art & Design stand to display and sell her merchandise.

Sarah's parents, Elizabeth and Jefferson Ballew, are very proud of their daughter's many accomplishments and encourage the continuation of their Butterfly's dance through creativity, education and cultural spirituality.

Outside of powwows, the talented young lady enjoys writing stories and poetry, participating in athletic events and especially participating in her heritage.

Sarah believes Rez Kid Productions will provide an excellent opportunity to earn money, develop work ethics and work experience. She plans to use the profits from her business to finance her college career at either Harvard or the University of Oklahoma.

Sarah is extremely grateful to the Indian Credit Outreach Program and her family for their guidance and support.

The Indian Credit Outreach Program understands that investing in Native youth is essential for the prosperity of Native communities.

"We have been honored to assist Sarah Ballew develop her business, Rez Kid Productions, and are certain of her future success," said ICOP Outreach Liaison Teresa Magnuson. "We wish you the best of luck and opportunities Sarah."

For more information on the National FSA American Indian Credit Outreach Initiative's youth loan programs, contact Magnuson at (517) 694-7784 or by e-mail at teresa@indiancreditoutreach.com.