New Plaza pop-up provides education, experience and more to young women
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Some middle and high school students are getting a chance to get some real job experience, and maybe a chance to learn what they’re ionate about.
A new pop-up, Beloved! recently opened at 231 W 47th St. on the County Club Plaza. It’s a resale shop carrying high-quality, in-demand women’s fashions and accessories.
On Tuesday, five new interns had their first day on the job, receiving an introduction to the basics of operating the , interacting with customers, and showcasing inventory.
But that “real-job” experience is just part of the goal of this boutique. Program participants also receive lessons in personal leadership, civic engagement and entrepreneurship.
“We’re building confidence,” said program manager Akiyaa Depusoir-Cochrane. “Feeling confident in their identity as young women of color--that’s really important.”
“We want to build them up,” said Depusoir-Cochrane. “We want to empower them. that’s our whole goal.
Depusoir-Cochrane said the program allows the students to explore their interests, whether that be marketing, finance, fashion, or retail.
“I like to sew,” Mariah Wells, one of the interns, told us. “I like to crochet new concepts, I like to work with fashion. I’d like to make my own crochet fashion brand,”
Another intern, Hannah Getahun, was excited on her first day.
“Getting a chance to see what a job is like,” said Getahun. “It’s been amazing—I really love the environment. It’s really fun!”
Beloved! is a resale boutique, so most of the inventory is donation-based. Purchases help in funding future programs for young women.
The summer internship program is ed by the Kauffman Foundation.
Copyright 2025 KCTV. All rights reserved.
