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Young Americans Center for Financial Education is so pleased to introduce the third presenting mentor in our 2020 Spotlight on YouthBiz Stars business competition: Raju Patel, Senior Vice President, Denver Market President, and Market Executive, Global Commercial Banking at Bank of America. One lucky winner of this year’s 19th annual event will work with him throughout the coming year to improve his or her business!
Raju Patel, Senior Vice President, Denver Market President, and Market Executive, Global Commercial Banking at Bank of America, will mentor a youth entrepreneur winner of the 2020 Spotlight on YouthBiz Stars business competition.
Raju Patel began his career at Bank of America 35 years ago. “It seems like only 20,” laughed Patel in a recent interview. “I’ve had the chance to learn, move around, switch roles, and build upon prior roles, which really invigorates you.” As Market President, he works throughout the region to connect businesses, families, and individuals to Bank of America’s banking, lending, and investment teams. As Market Executive for Global Commercial Banking, Patel leads a team of commercial bankers who partner across the bank to deliver the full suite of business services in the Colorado Market.
In addition to his roles at Bank of America, Patel is committed to giving back to his community and, in particular, supporting young people. He currently serves on the Board of Downtown Denver Partnership and Food Bank of the Rockies, and he previously served on the Boards of College Now and Youth Opportunities Unlimited in Cleveland, Ohio.
When he first visited Young Americans Center, Patel was amazed. “My first thought was that every young child needs to have this. It’s such a great way for youth to gain practical education,” noted Patel. That first visit encouraged Patel to become a mentor this year, where he hopes to both learn and share advice with an up-and-coming entrepreneur. Pointing out that young people often listen better to adults who aren’t their parents, Patel said “I wish I had the opportunity to have a mentor when I was young.” Patel’s knowledge and experience will be such an asset to a winner of Spotlight on YouthBiz Stars this year.
Patel’s mentee, a winner of the Spotlight on YouthBiz Stars business competition, will be announced at the virtual awards ceremony on October 1, 2020. Join the watch party and RSVP today!
