About Brenna: Brenna Turner is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Sake High!, a pioneering sake-in-a-can brand that has been making waves in the US beverage market. With a background in sports management and community engagement, Brenna previously worked with franchises like the Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers, and Los Angeles Rams. Currently, she is pursuing her Full-Time MBA at UCLA Anderson School of Management, where she is actively involved in empowering women in venture capital. Brenna’s unique blend of experience in established franchises and disruptive startups positions her at the forefront of entrepreneurship and venture capital, championing innovation and diversity in the ecosystem. Her long-term goal is to expand Sake High! into international markets and become a household name in the canned sake category.

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As I reflect on my experience at UCLA A-Days, I am reminded of the power of community and the impact it can have on our personal and professional journeys. My connection to UCLA Anderson began long before I stepped foot on campus, as I was inspired by the support the school and Venture Accelerator provided to my cofounder at Sake High!, Joey Labes (FTMBA ‘22), and the strong network of entrepreneurs and venture capitalists affiliated with it.

My decision to pursue an MBA at UCLA Anderson was not just about furthering my education; it was about leveraging the school’s vibrant ecosystem to propel my career in venture capital while running my own company. Many might view this as ambitious, even crazy, but I was determined to make it happen. UCLA Anderson offered the perfect blend of academic rigor, entrepreneurial spirit, and a supportive community that I knew would help me achieve my goals.

About A-Days!

A-Days at UCLA Anderson was more than just an orientation event; it was an immersive experience that allowed me to connect with fellow admits, current students, and alumni. The weekend was filled with engaging sessions, networking opportunities, and of course always ended with a social event that showcased the school’s diverse community and close distance to many bars in Westwood! From learning about the academic and career resources available to exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Los Angeles, every moment was a chance to build meaningful relationships and gain insights into the Anderson way of life.

One of the most significant takeaways from my experience at UCLA Anderson has been the emphasis on storytelling. The school’s culture encourages students to share their stories, whether it’s about overcoming challenges, achieving success, or simply navigating the MBA journey. This focus on storytelling has been invaluable for me, as it has helped me refine my pitch, articulate my vision for Sake High!, and connect with potential investors and partners on a deeper level.

As I continue on this path, I am excited to apply my expertise in building teams and scaling innovation across multiple industries to empower female founders in venture capital. My goal is to bridge the funding gap for women and underrepresented communities, leveraging my experience in fundraising, operations, and community building to make a meaningful impact.

Why Anderson

Initially, I was uncertain about pursuing an MBA. After being accepted into several programs, I questioned whether I truly needed a degree to achieve my goals. However, as I delved deeper into UCLA Anderson’s community, I realized that the people I met were not just talented individuals but overachievers like myself. They were driven, ambitious, and supportive, and I knew I deserved to be surrounded by that kind of energy and positive workforce. I understood that these would not only be school friends but lifelong friends, regardless of our different industries, because we lift each other up.

What sealed the deal for me was the personal touch from the professors. They took the time to know me, remembered my name, and showed genuine interest in my story. This one-on-one connection was invaluable, and it made me feel seen and valued from the very beginning.

Attending UCLA A-Days was a pivotal moment in my journey, marking the beginning of a transformative experience that has equipped me with the skills, network, and confidence to pursue my ambitions. As I continue on this path, I am reminded of the power of storytelling and community in achieving success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a future venture capitalist, or simply someone looking to make a meaningful impact, UCLA Anderson offers a unique environment that fosters growth, innovation, and connection.

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• Student Blogger: Brenna Turner ‘26
• Undergrad: University of Michigan ‘17
• Pre-MBA: Sake High! Cofounder
• Leadership@Anderson: A26 (Student Led Venture Capital Fund) Director of Events & CPG Vertical Lead, Anderson Venture Impact Partner, Entrepreneurs Association VP of LA/SF Venture Relations, Japan America Business Association Member