Sibling trend in the business academy

By Daja Long •

The Huizenga Business Innovation Academy lets undergraduate students earn their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in four years while developing entrepreneurial skills by running their own businesses. Recently, there has been an increase in siblings wanting to experience entrepreneurship in this program together.

“Our program has reached a steady state, and a lot of our students are following in the footsteps of their families. Business just runs in the family. It is so nice to see the future generations building into the program,” Monica Paneque, program director, said.

The HBIA program now has eight pairs of siblings doing business together.

Ryan Mangamo, freshman real-estate property development major, works with his older sibling, Julianne, graduate student, in their Shark Kits business.

PHOTO BY JULES BATCHKER Senior brothers Luigi Ventimiglia, business administration major, and Frank Ventimiglia, entrepreneurship major, operate Goodfellas Pasta Bar together.

“We definitely have a similar mindset. We both care about the business and want it to grow. We have grown up together, so we’re close and this is not our first business venture either. We have always been in business together growing up, whether it was selling lemonade at a garage sale or other things like that,” Ryan Mangamo said.

With some sibling pairs, there is a slight age difference between the two, creating a mentorship dynamic.

But, with all businesses, there are successes and difficulties throughout the leadership journey. Paneque has observed the challenges these sibling pairs have faced within the program.

“The challenge I have seen already for the younger siblings is the pressure of having to follow in the footsteps of the older siblings. I think there are expectations for the sibling to follow but at the same time, they are challenged to create their own process,” Paneque said.

Having to share not only their personal life but also their work life with their business partner, it is important for them to maintain a harmonious relationship. Ryan Mangamo revealed ways in which he and his sister preserve a healthy connection outside of work.

“We try to have dinner together. Even though we’re at dinner, we still talk about work a little bit. However, we can also just relax and celebrate our successes. If we have a day off, we will go out to lunch or to the beach together,” Ryan Mangamo said.

The sibling business partnership must have a solid foundation to survive obstacles and ensure longevity, especially for younger entrepreneurs. Savannah Santos, junior finance major, created the business, The Açai Shack with her younger sister, Ava, freshman marketing major, and shares advice with other siblings considering taking a business partnership in the program.

“I think if they can get along well without a business, they should consider running a business. I got lucky with my sister because she is the best business partner for me. If they do not get along, they should communicate with each other and plan in cooperation. I would recommend just starting there and seeing how that goes,” Santos said.