**Ever wonder what it takes to turn a weekend idea into a thriving startup?** 🤔 Come hear directly from those who’ve done it!

Join **[StarterStudio](starterstudio.org)**[®](starterstudio.org) and the **[Orlando Innovation League](http://Orlinnovationleague.org)** as we gear up for **Startup Weekend 2024**—the *can’t-miss* event for aspiring founders and innovators! 🚀

### **What’s Happening?**

We’re bringing together a powerhouse panel of Startup Weekend Orlando alumni, some of who’ve gone on to launch successful businesses *starting right at our event*. 🎉

Come to the **Tech Hub** on October 16th at 6:30 PM for an evening of food, networking, and stories of startup journeys that began at *Startup Weekend*. Learn firsthand what it’s like to pitch, validate, and launch your dream idea—all in just 54 hours.

But that’s not all! 💥 We’ll also be hosting an **impromptu pitch competition**, where *anyone* can give a one-minute pitch and get feedback. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this is your chance to test the waters!

**Bonus:** All attendees will receive a special discount code for their **Startup Weekend Orlando tickets**. 🎟️

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from alumni! **RSVP now** and get ready to be inspired!

**Meet the Alumni Who’ve Been Where You Are:**

**Rachel Flasterstein** is a dynamic serial entrepreneur celebrated for her relentless drive, passion, and genuine empathy. Her entrepreneurial journey began in grade school as a balloon artist and face painter and has since expanded into performing arts and business
technology.

As the founder of “The Tampa Mermaid,” a captivating performing arts company, Rachel brings the enchantment of mermaids to audiences of all ages. She is also a dual major in Entrepreneurship and Sales at the University of Central Florida. Her impressive track record includes top 3 finishes and semi-finalist spots in all 8 startup competitions she entered during 2022 and 2023, establishing her as a seasoned veteran in the startup world. She also made a splash on the front cover of Orlando Business Journal’s Innovators Under 25 in 2023.

Rachel’s collaborative spirit shines through her work with entrepreneurs of all ages, from 11-year-olds to those in their 60s. This broad experience has enriched her insights and fueled her commitment to self-improvement and mastery. As a transformative leader, Rachel champions self-belief and vulnerability as keys to success, embodying the principle that greatness emerges from the journey of self-empowerment.

Instagram: @thetampamermaid

**Reese Kelsey** is an entrepreneur and producer from Orlando Florida. She is most known in the Orlando tech scene for her performance and excellence in local startup competitions, recruiting and leading teams every time she has participated. Reese placed 1st at the Orlando Magic Innovation Challenge for her startup ‘Sick Seats’, leading her to the center court of the KIA Center and face-to-face with the CEO of the Magic organization. Less than 3 months later, Reese placed 2nd at Startup Weekend Orlando for her startup ‘DJU’ where she received high commendation from Priceline.com/Booking.com founder, Jeff Hoffman.

Reese can also be found DJing for local tech events and works as a personal assistant to high-net-worth individuals.

**Adam Ben-Evi** is a successful serial entrepreneur and proud native of Central Florida. He started his first company at the young age of 21 and has since built and sold over twenty businesses, products, and brands across various industries. With a talent for building and leading teams, Adam has worked with C-Level Executives at over 100 different publicly traded companies and has experience in startups.
Adam is currently the CEO of Spot, a social fitness app that promotes helping people lead a healthier, active lifestyle. He is passionate about giving back to his community and has been mentoring entrepreneurs for the past 10 years.

**Tatsiana Sokalava,** originally from Belarus, moved to Central Florida as a young adult and has been part of this vibrant community ever since. She has traveled across the country, working with multinational companies and startups in roles ranging from business development and operations to recruitment and product development. With experience spanning industries such as retail, real estate, and technology, Tatsiana now focuses on developing innovative tech solutions with a positive societal impact. She co-founded Career Scoops with her high school son, Arman, to help young people unlock their full potential and navigate their career paths with confidence. Tatsiana holds an MBA from Rollins Crummer Graduate School of Business and certifications in Data Science and AI technologies from Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. She is passionate about empowering the next generation and fostering a strong startup ecosystem in her community.