The Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce a special honor as part of our annual Business Awards: the Amazing Kids in Business Award. This award highlights the creativity, drive, and entrepreneurial spirit of our youth—those who are already making a difference and shaping the future of business in our community.

It is with great pride that we present this year’s Amazing Kids in Business Award to Kevin Zhang, a sophomore from Annandale and a student at North Hunterdon High School.

Kevin recently earned first place in Seton Hall University’s highly competitive Pirates Pitch for High School Students competition, thanks to his innovative startup idea: Aetherstar.

What is Aetherstar? It’s a forward-thinking online platform designed to help high school students discover extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, internships, and academic competitions—all in one centralized, accessible space. The idea was born from Kevin’s own experience—he only found out about the Pirates Pitch competition by chance just two weeks before the deadline. That sparked a realization: students need a better way to access the opportunities they’re searching for.

Kevin described the competition as a “great learning experience,” where he learned to identify and address real-world market needs with a solid, thoughtful business pitch. He faced tough questions from the judges and walked away with invaluable advice, new insights—and a first-place trophy.

Kevin was quick to share credit, thanking Professor Scherreik, the panelists, the student volunteers, and Seton Hall University for hosting the event. He also gave special thanks to his family, his business club advisor Mr. Tomson, and North Hunterdon High School for their unwavering support.

Kevin Zhang is proof that age is no barrier to innovation, and that passion and purpose can begin early. With Aetherstar, he’s not just solving a problem—he’s opening doors for students just like him across the county and beyond.

On behalf of the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce, it is our honor to recognize his vision, determination, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Congratulations to this year’s Amazing Kids in Business Award recipient—Kevin Zhang!

For more information about events or to learn more about how the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce supports local businesses, please visit www.hunterdonchamber.org or contact us at 908-782-7115 or info@hunterdonchamber.org