Deven Meyers, a local teen who started a business, the FH Swim Academy, two years ago has been nominated for a national small business scholarship.

SuretyBonds.com is offering a $3,000 scholarship. A company spokeswoman said the contest rules were straightforward: “tell us about an experience with a small business that has impacted your life.”

In her submission video, Meyers told about starting her small business to teach swimming to local children. She said her motivation stemmed from witnessing a small child almost drown.

She researched the issue and learned that drowning affects 2,500 children annually.

Meyers noted that Fountain Hills does not have a public swimming pool where youngsters can learn to swim.

She decided to become a lifeguard and certified water safety instructor. Meyers said the success of the business gave her confidence to pursue a career in the medical field with the goal of becoming a surgeon.

The $3,000 scholarship would pay for some of her college expenses. She will graduate later this month from Fountain Hills High School and start college this fall at Barrett Honors College, Arizona State University, where she will major in biology with a minor in business.

The public can vote daily at SuretyBonds.com/scholarship.

Seven other scholarship finalists’ videos and their application synopsis are posted on SuretyBonds.com blog and website.

The winner will be announced by June 3.