Beauty, Brilliance, and Business at QPA

Greetings QPA readers, and welcome back to the Queens Preparatory Academy journalism site!

The end of the school year is approaching rapidly, but May has been a month of growth, inspiration, and empowerment for students at QPA. Over the last few weeks, cosmetology and business literacy educator Ms. Chinweta Onwualu, has played a major role in organizing two major events. Both of these events were aimed at enhancing the skills of her students, and increasing their exposure in both the beauty industry and financial literacy—and they have accomplished just that.

On Monday, May 5, for the first time, 17 students from QPA attended the Hair Education Business Summit (HEBS) Hair Show. This was an inspirational industry event that offered them their first glimpse into the professional world of cosmetology and barbering. Sponsored by PureO’Natural products, the convention featured presentations, including a high-energy Hair Fantasy competition and a dynamic Barbering showcase.

Ms. Onwualu shared that “the excitement was palpable.” Students returned energized and inspired, with a deeper passion for their craft and a clearer vision of the opportunities within the beauty industry. “It showed me how you can be creative and take care of yourself,” said Harmonie Nelson, a QPA student who attended the event. QPA expressed heartfelt gratitude to PureO’Natural for investing in the next generation of beauty professionals.

Just weeks earlier, QPA acknowledged April as Financial Literacy Awareness Month with a series of impactful events aimed at empowering students with real-world financial skills. On Friday, April 11, four QPA students: Lahndon Allen, Shade Brooks-Griffith, Jayden James, and Josiah Thompson, took center stage at our monthly community gathering. During this segment, they presented original business ideas in a friendly pitch competition. The event showcased their creativity, confidence, and mastery of financial principles. These students dedicated weeks creating and perfecting their pitch, which left the audience members impressed by their entrepreneurial spirit and professional delivery.

Earlier that week, QPA also partnered with EVERFI—a technology company that focuses on creating interactive, digital education resources—to host the Future Finance Workshop. This was a dynamic learning session led by EVERFI representative Ms. Tori and hosted by Ms. Onwualu. The workshop equipped students with foundational tools for managing money, preparing for financial responsibilities, and making sound decisions. The session enhanced the broader initiative to prepare QPA students for independent financial futures.

As the academic year progresses, QPA continues to invest in both the practical and professional development of its students. Through exposure to real-world industry events and hands-on financial education, our scholars are being empowered to dream bigger and plan smarter. What did you take away from QPA’s take on Financial Literacy Month?

Be sure to let us know in the comments section below.