CHICAGO — While most 12-year-olds are focused on schoolwork and sports, Stephen “Stevie” Mitchell Jr. is already laying the groundwork for his dream: owning a Chick-fil-A by age 25.
A standout student at Bronzeville Classical School, Stevie is known not just for his academic success in math, poetry, and robotics, but also for his clear vision for the future. That vision includes entrepreneurship, community uplift, and chicken sandwiches.
Inspired By A Mentor — And Dressed As Him Too
Stevie’s passion for business was sparked by Kareem Edwards, a Chick-fil-A owner/operator in Chicago. Edwards not only serves food — he serves as Stevie’s mentor.
“Stevie’s father expressed to me that he dressed as me for Halloween,” Edwards shared. “To see Stevie in all the greatness he has and play any role in his life was surreal and rewarding.”
(Source: ABC27 / WGN)
The young entrepreneur even owns a “Future Operator” Chick-fil-A name tag — proudly wearing it during his mentorship activities.
Summer Internship With a Purpose
Stevie is currently interning at Edwards’ Chick-fil-A to learn real-world business strategies.
“Different strategies to make sure you’re getting the right profit and saving money,” he said, explaining what he hopes to gain from the experience.
The internship isn’t just about profit margins — Stevie wants to build something meaningful for his community.
More Than Just a Dream — A Plan For Opportunity
For Stevie, owning a franchise is more than a personal goal — it’s a platform to create jobs and opportunities for others.
“I think as a Chick-fil-A owner/operator, I can help the people around me and my community. I want to create jobs for other people and to create opportunities,” he said.
At just 12, this Chicago sixth grader is already showing what vision, mentorship, and drive can do.
Inspired by Stevie’s ambition?
Know a young person with big entrepreneurial goals?
Tell us your story or shout out a local kid dreamer at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
