JA 18 Under 18 2026
KIRIAKOS (ROCCO) KATSIKIDES
Plenty of kids enjoy baking cookies, but Kiriakos (Rocco) turned a hobby into a business. In 7th grade, Rocco got a mixer and baking supplies and built his own business, Colossus Cookie Company, from the ground up, starting with sales in his neighborhood and growing to sales in local markets. Everything changed when the family moved from Texas to Maryland and Rocco had to begin all over in a new town. Undaunted, he’s grown his cookie company in Severna Park, setting up a website for orders, and connecting with local marketplaces. In addition to being an honor student, the ninth grader plays club soccer and is active in community service through the Greek Orthodox Youth of America.
“[Rocco’s] focus, creativity, and determination are impressive—whether he’s leading a play during practice of refining his latest batch of cookies, Rocco works very hard on his goals.” —Gavin Boyer, soccer coach