Who: Michael Platt, 14
What: Started a business to help feed homeless and hungry people
Michael Platt loves baking. But that’s not why he started Michaels Desserts, a baking business he runs out of his family’s kitchen in Bowie, Maryland. He did it because he’s passionate about social justice.
Michaels Desserts helps tackle food inequality. How? For every cupcake, cookie, and cake he sells, the teen gives away a treat to homeless or hungry people in the Washington, D.C., area.
Michael hands out about 100 desserts a month at places such as homeless shelters. All the recipes are his own, including the ones for his signature dessert: Freedom Fighter Cupcakes.
Each month, these creations honor a person who has fought for justice. October’s Freedom Fighter Cupcake honors abolitionist Harriet Tubman.
“You don’t have to be an adult to make a difference,” Michael says.