In this episode, we sit down with Israel James, a proud Rocky Mount native whose story embodies youth leadership, academic excellence, and entrepreneurial innovation. Israel shares his journey from growing up in Rocky Mount to being elected Student Body President at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM), and his role as Chairperson of the NC State Youth Council, where he advocated for youth-driven policy across the state.
We also dive into Israel’s entrepreneurial journey as the founder of Terrabite, a sustainability startup turning food waste into biochar cement. Terrabite has won multiple entrepreneurship awards, been featured in the Frontier Journal of Economics and Entrepreneurship, and is gaining recognition for its mission to combat climate change through carbon-neutral building solutions. Israel discusses participating in startup accelerator programs with Launch Chapel Hill, refining Terrabite’s go-to-market strategy and impact model, and his vision for building a more sustainable future.
Looking ahead, Israel will attend the University of Pennsylvania this fall as a University Scholar (Class of 2029), one of the most selective undergraduate research tracks in the country. Tune in to hear how this young leader is combining academics, entrepreneurship, and civic impact to make a difference in Rocky Mount and beyond.
