Why Danielle Bregoli, aka Bhad Bhabie, is launching a scholarship fund for trade schools

Danielle Bregoli, aka Bhad Bhabie, was first known to the world from her viral appearance on The Dr. Phil Show in 2016. Since then, however, she has taken her internet fame and used it as a launch pad for a successful music and business career. In 2017, she became the youngest female rapper to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, and, upon her 18th birthday, launched an OnlyFans account.

Bregoli’s non-traditional pathway to financial security and success on her own terms has also inspired her to help others forge their own path, which is why she has partnered with Educapital Foundation to create the “Bhad Scholarship” Award. The $1.7M scholarship will help 1,000 students enroll in technical and trade schools nationwide, with those awarded the Bhad Scholarship having the opportunity to pursue careers in various trades, ranging from cosmetology to cybersecurity to the business of cannabis.

“I know that there's a lot of kids out there that really want to get real jobs and want to work hard, but they just don't have the money to provide it,” she tells Yahoo Life of why she is excited by the scholarship opportunity. “I thought it was an amazing idea.”

Each “Bhad Scholarship” recipient will receive $1,000 towards their trade school education and 50 graduates will receive $10,000 in start-up capital to help launch their own businesses upon graduation. Additionally, Bregoli will handpick graduates to receive full-ride scholarships from a $200,000 fund.

Video: Bhad Babie looks past 'Cash Me Ousside' notoriety

“We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Bhad Bhabie that allows us to continue our mission to eliminate poverty through trade school education,” said Dr. Brenita Mitchell, Founder of Educapital Foundation, in a press release for the scholarship. “I have seen firsthand the role education plays in opening doors to building wealth and creating successful career opportunities. By removing financial barriers, the ‘Bhad Scholarship’ will help students spend more time focusing on their studies, and help them achieve their lifelong dreams.”

Bregoli’s interest in trade schools is partially inspired by her own passion for cosmetology. Had things gone differently, she says, she could see herself pursuing a career as a nail technician. She hopes to pursue opportunities within the beauty space in addition to continuing with her music career.

“I want to get into owning more businesses,” she explains. “I want to own a nail salon. I want to hopefully end up having it become a franchise and putting them in multiple different areas.”

As for what it takes to be a young hustler, Bregoli has some advice for others seeking their own path to success.

“It takes hard work, effort and a strong mind," she explains, "because if you don't have a strong mind, you're not going to get very far."

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