Starting a business is a commitment and requires dedication, resources and sacrifice. We asked some of the rising stars in our community how they thought through the idea of starting their own businesses.

VICTORIA EDWARDS

My thought process in starting my own business was rooted in both passion and purpose. As someone who has worked as an educator, administrator, and human resources professional, I’ve always recognized the value of strong social skills, confidence, and poise—especially in young people. Read More>>

Reyna Perez

For many years, I’ve held a strong aspiration to establish my own beauty school, with the goal of empowering future students to thrive within the beauty industry. My 23 years as a licensed cosmetologist have only deepened my passion for this field. Read More>>

Anita Sneideraitis

I felt a strong need to create a business that bridges the gap between design vision and the realities of residential construction. I founded my interior design business with a mission: to bring thoughtful, functional, and beautiful interiors to life by working hand-in-hand with the builders and tradespeople who make it all possible. Read More>>

Rachel Lipson

I always felt passionate about helping people use clothes to feel their most confident. For years, i’d advise my friends and family about which dress was the best option, which necklace made the most sense, or which colours worked together etc. Read More>>

Devon Brown

To be honest, there was no other option. I couldn’t hold down a job. Everything I had done I started to hate in just a few months. Eventually it became so unbearable that I just had to quit. This happened a few times before I finally realized that working for someone else just wasn’t for me. Read More>>