By Alejandra Wells
A few weeks ago, I sat on a panel for entrepreneurship, in front of 60+ teens and alongside adult professionals in suits and heels. It was one of those full-circle moments I used to dream about: being invited as a teen entrepreneur, sharing the story of Hiya, and reminding other young people that their voice matters.
But let me be real with you. It wasn’t all applause and empowerment.
Before the panel even started, I was nervous. Not just because I was about to speak publicly, but because I felt the pressure of having to prove myself not just to the audience, but to the adults sitting beside me. I kept thinking: What is a 17-year-old going to say next to a 50-year-old real estate broker?
When it was my turn to share my story, I talked about Hiya, a jewelry brand I founded that’s all about mental health awareness and suicide prevention. At GoShopHiya.com, every piece of jewelry tells a story. It’s style with purpose, and it started from my own healing journey.
Then someone asked where I saw myself in the next few years. I said, "In college, studying business."
That’s when the man a few seats down from me started chuckling. Not in a warm, encouraging way. But in a way that made me feel small. He looked at his friend and laughed, as if what I said was ridiculous.
And for a moment, I shut down. I zoned out. I felt like I was floating in space, like I didn’t belong on that panel or in that room.
I’ve had teens side-eye me or judge me for how I dress or talk. But when an adult discredits you, it hits different. It’s a deeper kind of hurt. Because you expect more from people who’ve been where you’re going.
But here’s what I know now: That one laugh won’t define me. My work speaks for itself. Hiya exists. It’s real. It’s growing. And it’s helping people. And no one can take that away.
My mom, Josefina, who was also on the panel, caught the remarks and quickly shut it down. "At her young age, she might be young, but her experience is mighty," she said.
To anyone reading this who’s ever been underestimated or made to feel like you don’t belong: keep showing up anyway. Keep building. Keep being exactly who you are.
Remember: Be kind. Think twice before you speak. And always check on your people. 💖
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