During the 2025 tecBRIDGE High School Business Plan Competition, four of the eight teams in the live presentation round were from the Greater Hazleton Area. Three local participants – Karlii Laurel, Lilah Sharkey, and Jaylnn Toohil, all from the Hazleton Area Academy of Sciences – created AveraJewels, a discreet, stylish line of GPS-enabled jewelry designed to enhance personal safety by allowing wearers to stay connected and protected at all times. To celebrate this incredible showing, we caught up with them to learn more about their journeys.

Tell us what motivated you to join the competition.

Karlii Laurel: I joined the competition because I enjoy a challenge and the chance to present an idea that could potentially save lives.

Lilah Sharkey: I’m here because our business has the potential to support and benefit the future for women, and I wanted to be part of that impact.

Jaylnn Toohil: My teammates and I came up with an amazing idea that could save someone’s life someday. That was more than enough motivation to compete.

What does it mean to you to represent Hazleton on this stage?

KL: It’s nerve-racking, but also exciting. I’m proud to share my passion and represent our community.

LS: It’s scary knowing we’re representing Hazleton, but it’s also exciting to see how far our business idea has taken us.

JT: It’s intense to carry the pressure of the competition, but being on stage pitching something I truly believe in is a total adrenaline rush.

Why is this experience meaningful to you?

KL: It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way. I’m already proud of how far I’ve come.

LS: This means a lot to me because I never imagined myself pitching a business idea to an audience. Freshman-year me wouldn’t believe this moment.

JT: It’s incredibly meaningful because it’s a rare opportunity. It’s challenged me in ways that are preparing me for college and beyond.

What advice would you give to students thinking about entering the competition next year?

KL: No matter how stressful it gets, keep going. Trust the process and breathe through it. It’s all worth it in the end.

LS: Just breathe, stay calm, and don’t stress too much over the financials – they’re not as bad as you think.

JT: Stay focused and remember: you’re your own biggest critic. Keep pushing through.

For more information about tecBRIDGE’s High School Business Plan Competition, contact Jocelyn Sterenchock at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..