West Side Baker, boutique owner on a mission to inspire young entrepreneurs

CHICAGO (CBS) – A West Side baker whose mission is to inspire young people to become their own boss.
CBS 2’s Steven Graves with a look at how she takes her lessons from cooking to the classroom.
At this candy store in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood, you’ll find a different kind of flavor.
“SCHWEET Schweet!” It just sounds good!
So, Chamille Weddington gave his name to his newly opened company, born out of a pandemic – “Schweet Cheesecake”.
“It speaks of a taste, it speaks of an emotion. It’s warm, it’s friendly.”
And it stands out on Chicago Avenue. An adventure inspired by the recipes of his late grandmother.
One Weddington would go nowhere but the West Side – his home.
“And this company is meant to be mission-driven. It’s underpinned by who you are and your gifts.”
The baker’s gifts go beyond the oven to education.
“My job here is to inspire you to be an entrepreneur.”
The former Columbia College professor uses her tenure as a teacher.
“Take one if you want”
To turn cheesecake into discussions around business creation.
Talking to teenagers Friday at the charter school – Association House – in Humboldt Park.
“Architecture and Hair, Cosmetology, and Others”
Lots of students – minorities – who can see each other in Weddington.
“I even dreamed when I was a little girl of being my own boss.”
“We have a saying – it’s called community is the true currency of a business. And it’s true because without those relationships I mean what do you have?”
Leading a community towards empowerment through entrepreneurship.
“It’s a method of freedom. When you have options. It’s when you know you’re free.”
Weddington ultimately hopes to inspire others to open businesses like hers. Hoping to make this region a “Schweet” destination spot.
Today was Weddington’s first speaking since opening his business last year. She expects to do more as COVID restrictions ease.