Ameer personally experienced the overwhelming pressure and confusion of entering high school. He felt a lack of support and guidance in navigating the complex decisions around courses, extracurriculars, and college applications. Realizing that other students were likely facing similar challenges, he created Running Start to provide the support and clarity he wished he had.

Ameer's personal experience navigating the complexities of high school, particularly the pressure to make decisions that could impact college admissions, inspired him to create a solution for other students facing similar challenges.

Modest Beginnings

In its earliest form, Ameer established Running Start as a group workshop series designed to equip high school students with the tools and strategies needed to excel academically and in extracurricular activities. The program focused on empowering students with a personalized game plan tailored to their unique aspirations and potential.

Early Challenges

Building Running Start wasn't without its challenges. Ameer recognized the importance of personalized attention for each student, leading him to design the workshops as small, intensive boot camps to ensure focused guidance for every participant.

Initially, Ameer relied on word-of-mouth marketing, assuming parents would naturally recommend the program to others. However, he discovered that parents were hesitant to share resources that could give their children a competitive edge. Adapting to this, Ameer shifted his approach and began collaborating with local middle schools, pitching Running Start to principals and teachers as a way to prepare their students for high school. This strategic change expanded the program's reach, connecting with families actively seeking guidance.

More Than Just a Business

Ameer's motivation extends beyond simply running a successful business. Witnessing students gain clarity and confidence through Running Start brought him immense satisfaction. The program evolved into a platform for personal connections and making a tangible difference in students' lives.

For Ameer, Running Start represents the intersection of entrepreneurship and a deep commitment to helping others. It embodies the idea of creating value in the world while simultaneously fueling a personal sense of purpose.

Guiding Principles

At Running Start, the focus is on:

• Empowering students: Equipping students with the tools and knowledge to navigate the challenges of high school and college transitions.
• Personalized guidance: Providing tailored support through mentoring, coaching, and academic skills development.
• Creating confident learners: Building students' self-assurance and preparing them for success in their educational journey.

Impact and Growth

Since its inception in 2022, Running Start has positively impacted 217 students. The program's impact has grown significantly with the addition of 3 new Mentors in 2023, allowing the program to scale. Ameer and Alisha's dedication to creating equitable opportunities and empowering students has positioned Running Start as a valuable resource for the community. The program's continued growth reflects its commitment to guiding students toward a successful future. Running Start is committed to providing 80% of its mentoring sessions FREE to need-based students.