Girl Scouts learn to lead through entrepreneurship

PHOENIX (STN) – What does selling cookies have to do with preparing girls for future success in business, leadership and life?

According to Girl Scouts Arizona Cactus-Pine Council (GSACP) Co-CEO Mary Mitchell and Girl Scout Kiana Jeskewitz, it’s everything.

During the ‘In the Room’ segment of the April episode of ‘It Happens at STN‘, Mitchell and Jeskewitz shared how the Girl Scout Cookie Program is more than a seasonal fundraiser, it’s a launchpad for entrepreneurial thinking and long-term growth.

“There are fewer and fewer spaces where girls can safely explore financial literacy,” Mitchell said. “The Girl Scout Cookie Program gives them a hands-on opportunity to build a plan, save toward a goal, develop a strategy and take ownership of their success. That box of cookies fuels real experiences. It teaches girls how to market, brand and think about corporate social responsibility.”

She also underscored how the lessons go far beyond dollars and sales.

“They’re building small corporations. They’re learning teamwork, pitching, budgeting and how to invest back into the community,” Mitchell said. “These are highly transferable skills, and they’re starting at age five.”

Jeskewitz, now in her 12th year with Girl Scouts, said the cookie program has opened the door to incredible experiences, including opportunities to meet and learn from local leaders.

“We get to ask big questions and learn directly from community leaders,” Jeskewitz said. “That helps us grow, not just in our cookie season, but in our lives.”

Mitchell pointed to the council’s partnership with OneAZ Credit Union as a model for meaningful collaboration, praising the company’s willingness to turn over its headquarters for a full day of mentoring and co-creation.

“It was amazing,” she said. “We had more mentors than girls in the room. That’s the kind of commitment that helps girls envision themselves in leadership and business.”

She also had a message for anyone who wonders whether buying a box of cookies really makes a difference.

“Please say yes when you see them,” she urged. “That simple act builds resilience and reminds them that they are seen [and] that they matter.”

Near the end of the panel, Jeskewitz took the opportunity to speak directly to community leaders and encourage them to get involved.

“We want to learn from you,” she said. “We’re ready, willing and able. We’ve already learned so much, and we’re excited to keep growing.”

Mitchell’s closing words reflected her core belief. “We’re preparing girls today to lead tomorrow. Whether that’s running a business, launching a nonprofit, or being an incredible teammate. We owe them opportunities to be seen, heard, and mentored.

“That box of cookies is just the beginning.”