Group photo of bootcamp graduates with mentor Pankaj Kumar, marking the program’s successful conclusion. | Photo Credit : pankaj kumar
Edison, NJ – August 2025 — Teenagers in Edison are getting a head start in the business world thanks to an innovative program blending real-world training with expert mentorship. The EdisonCare Business Internship Bootcamp, held in collaboration with DNA Franchise and EdisonCare, recently concluded a month-long program led by local entrepreneur and franchise consultant Pankaj Kumar.
The bootcamp introduced students—many just 15 years old—to the fundamentals of franchising, an area of business often unfamiliar even to adults. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, hands-on training, and live walkthroughs inside a working franchise, gaining a practical understanding of operations, marketing, customer service, and profitability.
“I didn’t know what a franchise was until I turned 25,” said Pankaj Kumar. “These kids are getting introduced to it at 15. At their age, I was memorizing textbook definitions. They’re learning actual systems.”
The program culminated with students receiving official completion certificates from Kumar, marking their achievement and readiness to explore entrepreneurship further. For many, the experience was transformative. “Now I know I want to own something of my own someday,” one student shared.
Pankaj Kumar awards certificates to graduates of the EdisonCare Business Internship Bootcamp, celebrating young entrepreneurs’ achievements. | Photo Credit : pankaj kumar
Kumar, founder of Bowl’d Masala, a modern Indian fast-casual brand, brings over 27 years of global hospitality experience, including leadership roles with Pizza Hut, A&W, and Domino’s. Through his consultancy, DNA Franchise, he helps aspiring entrepreneurs identify business opportunities tailored to their goals and resources.
“When EdisonCare invited me to mentor this program, I knew I had to say yes,” Kumar said. “Watching these students grow and push their limits was nothing short of inspiring.”
The EdisonCare Business Internship Bootcamp is part of the organization’s mission to prepare young people for leadership roles through practical mentorship and experiential learning.
For more information about upcoming programs or to connect with Pankaj Kumar, visit www.dnafranchise.pro, email pankaj@dnafranchise.pro, or call +1 929 261 2124.