Christine Kreisher is making a difference in her community by empowering young entrepreneurs through her work at the Emerging Entrepreneurs Leadership Academy. Her story is a reminder that mentorship and community support can uplift the next generation and create lasting change.

Building Future Leaders

Christine Kreisher, at 55 years old, serves as the executive director of the Emerging Entrepreneurs Leadership Academy (EELA) in Berks County. This summer educational program focuses on high school students aspiring to start their own businesses. Kreisher is dedicated to connecting these young people with real-world business experiences, mentors, and opportunities that boost their confidence and direction.

In her position, Kreisher works closely with volunteers who also care about the future of their community. Together, they create an environment where students can discover their potential. The six-week summer program transforms the students from unsure teenagers into confident individuals capable of presenting their business ideas in front of a panel of investors. It’s a remarkable transformation that showcases the power of mentorship and community investment in young minds.

A Personal Journey of Resilience

Christine’s determination stems from her own challenging upbringing. Growing up as the eldest of three sisters in a home affected by addiction and instability, she learned valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of support systems. Her childhood was often riddled with uncertainty, but these experiences shaped her ability to adapt and understand the significance of guidance for young people.

These early challenges fueled her passion for helping the next generation. Kreisher believes that providing a stable foundation allows students to thrive and explores entrepreneurship in meaningful ways. Her commitment to fostering growth and potential stems from her own journey, making her a relatable role model for the young people she serves.

Creating a Thriving Community

Christine’s efforts extend beyond EELA. She is also the founder of Irresistible Teams, where she coaches leaders on building healthy, high-performing cultures. Additionally, she has owned the Bagel Bar Café in Kutztown for over three decades, a place that holds special meaning for her and her family. This café is more than a restaurant; it embodies the culture of community support that Kreisher cherishes.

Her love for supporting local businesses is infectious. She emphasizes the importance of varied dining and shopping experiences in Berks County, fostering a sense of community pride. When showing visitors around, she often starts with her café, highlighting local culture through food and art, culminating in a visit to the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts.

Inspiration and Influence

Kreisher’s journey is filled with insights from influential mentors, especially her father. An entrepreneur battling pancreatic cancer, he taught her the value of courage, positivity, and investing in others. His legacy resonates in the way she approaches her work and community, encouraging young people to take risks and follow their passions.

Books by Richard Rohr and Carol Dweck have also played a part in shaping her perspective on growth. She believes in the transformative power of a growth mindset and is dedicated to instilling that in the students she works with. By encouraging them to see their potential, she is not just teaching entrepreneurship; she is nurturing future leaders.

What this means for you

Kreisher’s story reflects the importance of mentorship and community support in fostering resilience and growth. If you ever need to review an employment contract or mentorship agreement, legal-document-to-plain-english-translator/”>AI legalese decoder can help translate it into plain English in seconds. Empowering yourself and the next generation starts with understanding the rules of engagement.

Source: https://www.spotlightpa.org/berks/2026/04/berks-county-business-leadership-community-profile/