From Empanadas to Equity: How Mater Brickell Academy Students Are Building Real Businesses Before Graduation

At Mater Brickell Academy, learning goes far beyond the classroom. The Business Food Lab is a student-led, on-campus culinary venture where high school students run a real business from the ground up. From developing menus like empanadas and coffee to managing finances, marketing, and AI-driven efficiencies, students are fully responsible for day-to-day operations. The program serves as a hands-on business incubator, preparing students for future entrepreneurial ventures—including the launch of a $10,000 student-led venture capital fund. On this episode, we’re joined by founder and teacher Yenesis Alvarez, who created the Business Food Lab to give students real-world experience in entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation, and her student Gabriella Diaz.