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September 7, 2023

2023 Training Camp Diaries: Utkarsh Kumaran

I recently had the pleasure of attending VFA Training Camp, and I can honestly say that it was one of the most inspiring and unforgettable experiences of my life. Training Camp provided a unique opportunity to hone my skills, learn new strategies, and bond with my fellow Fellows.

From the moment I arrived at the camp, I was struck by the sense of camaraderie and community that permeated the atmosphere. Everyone was there for the same reason, and we all shared a common goal: to make a better tomorrow.

Another aspect of Training Camp that I found inspiring was the guest speakers. We were fortunate enough to hear from some of the most successful experts in their respective fields. The speakers applied learned concepts into new frameworks, which allowed me to view networking, priority management, and self-care in a whole different light!

The discussion that most stood out to me was Lorenzo Gomez’s talk on creating your “Personal Board of Directors.” His presentation taught us the value of creating a strong network of people around you for success.

Everyone has different strengths and unique journeys to get to VFA, but we were all sitting at the same table. We recognized that we needed to rely on each other’s approach to meet our team’s needs. This not only helped us improve our skills, but it also gave us a sense of ownership and pride in our collective effort.

But perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Training Camp was the sense of accomplishment that we all felt at the end of each day. We worked hard, pushed ourselves, and saw the results of our efforts. We were a team, and we were all in it together. And when we finally left the camp, we knew that we had not only improved our skills as young professionals, but we had also formed lifelong friendships and memories that we would cherish forever.

In conclusion, my Training Camp experience was truly inspiring and great. It allowed me to grow as an entrepreneur, learn from others, and push myself to new heights. I am grateful for the experience, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking to improve their skills, bond with their teammates, and be inspired by the power of hard work and determination.

Posted in: Fellows, Inside VFA

VFA Has Ceased Operations


Since its first cohort in 2012, Venture For America (VFA) has championed entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth across the nation. As of August 6, 2024, VFA has ceased its operations. While this marks the end of an era, it also provides an opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary accomplishments and lasting impact that we have achieved together.

Please click here to read the full update.

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