Young Bosses: 6 Successful Brand Builders Who Got An Early Start

“There’s a huge disconnect between the mindset of young people and the companies trying to create products that young people buy,â€ ~Jason Smikle

Jason Smikle, 25, Co-Founder, Managing Director, TUV Online/TUV Media Networks

A creative entrepreneur and risk taker, Smikle teamed up with friends, Ebele Mora and Fabricio Sousa during his sophomore year of college to launch Truly Unique Vision (TUV). The team has since reaped the rewards from this venture, evolving into a Chicago-based new media company that helps brands connect directly with young people (18-24). The company has successfully led efforts in creating video campaigns with companies such as Foot Locker, Toyota and McDonald’s. Marrying a grassroots style of youth engagement and digital media at colleges nationwide, TUV has also helped BET refine its content through an innovative approach to reaching its audience. “There’s a huge disconnect between the mindset of young people and the companies trying to create products that young people buy,â€ says Smikle. “Clients will have a one-stop-shop into the college market.â€ With a growing client list the company expects 100% growth in year-over-year revenue.