Ledes from the Land of Enchantment

Layla Duga makes pearl pets

Editor’s Note: Each month, Sun News features a young entrepreneur participating in the Cruces Kids Can – Jr. Vendor Program, a project designed to inspire and equip young businesspeople. Student participation includes the presentation and sale of their goods on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Las Cruces farmers and handicraft market in downtown Las Cruces. While the COVID-19 pandemic messed up the students’ sales schedule in the market, their goods continue to be available through their online outlets.

Layla Duga

Age: 10

Class: Fourth grade, Doña Ana Elementary School

Shop: Pearl animals

Where did the idea come from?

My father taught me how to do it. Then I started designing my own animals.

Describe your products:

I make pearl animals out of pony beads.

How long does it take to manufacture your products?

Depending on the size of the piece, it can take between 10-30 minutes.

Describe your process:

I often go online for an idea for inspiration and then I start making a “pet”. I made an elf all by myself. I have to choose which pearls I want to use for my design as well as the string.

Pictured are pearl animals that were created by 10-year-old Layla Duga as part of the Kids Can Youth Entrepreneur program.

What are the prices for your products?

Small: $ 2

Large: $ 3

If I am interested in your products, how can I contact you?

On the Kids Can Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/kidscan.dac)

How long have you been involved with Kids Can?

I started the after-school program this school year.

What’s your favorite part about being a Jr. Vendor?

I like to make money and I like to learn how to run a business.

April Christensen is the founder of the Kids Can Youth Entrepreneur Program at the Community Action Agency. For more information, she can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 575-680-6766.

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