Sadler Means Young Women’s Leadership Academy kicked off Black History Month this past week with a virtual presentation by guest speaker Mikaila Ulmer, CEO of Me and the Bees Lemonade. 

Ulmer started her business as a teenager through youth entrepreneurial events as well as setting up her lemonade stand at home. In 2015, Ulmer was featured on the hit TV show Shark Tank and received a $60,000 investment. Her idea from more than 10 years ago continues to grow and is available in five flavors in more than 1,500 stores nationwide. 

Students heard Ulmer’s story in her own words and got to ask questions of the young business leader. As a special treat, Sadler Means students enjoyed Me & The Bees lemonade and tea, compliments of the company. 

Ulmer’s first book, “Bee Fearless, Dream Like a Kid” launched in August 2020. It is about her experiences being a social entrepreneur and leading a purpose-based brand aimed at offering all-natural lemonades in a way that helps save the bees. 

“I wanted to write a book because a lot of kids have these amazing ideas, but they don’t know where to start,” Ulmer said. “It is possible to be a kid and do these sorts of things, and here’s how you do it.”

In addition to Ulmer’s talk, all Sadler Means students are invited to participate in a Black History Reading Challenge, which features works by and about Black authors. The Sadler Means Black History Reading Challenge was curated in honor of Mrs. Bertha Sadler Means, an Austin civil rights icon and retired Austin ISD reading teacher. Students completing the challenge can win an autographed copy of Ulmer’s book.

Sadler Means Young Women’s Leadership Academy promotes scholarship, leadership, and community service to help ensure students succeed in high school, college, career, and life.