Local fair helps young entrepreneurs gain business experience
The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and growing in St. Margaret’s Bay area youth. On Tuesday June 24, 18 youths showcased their business ventures in Upper Tantallon during a first-ever Youth Entrepreneur Fair. Organized and hosted by the St. Margaret’s Bay Community Enterprise Centre and sponsored by CBDC Blue Water and Third Sector Enhancement, the event was an opportunity for budding business owners aged 10 to 13 to gain experience in what it means to run a business.
Talent and creativity abounded, with items for sale that included unique handmade bookmarks, stickers, cards, jewellery, beadwork, birdhouses, dog treats, dried fruit snacks and a wide selection of delicious-looking (and smelling) baked goods. There was even a table selling lemonade to help keep everyone hydrated in the 30-degree heat.
Customers brought questions and encouragement. The young business owners beamed at the chance to share their products and explain how they made their wares.
Many people browsed each table in turn, allowing every youth to promote themselves and bolster their confidence.
There was networking too, as the young business owners browsed and shopped from one another’s tables, meeting their peers and gaining ideas on how they can grow and improve their own venture.
The event ended on a mixed note of elation and fatigue, but pizza for the participants perked everyone up, and young entrepreneurs left a little more experienced, a little richer, and with a full tummy.
Photos from the Youth Entrepreneur Fair
Lily and Eva L. made charms, coasters and key-chains using epoxy.
For each 3D printed fidget toy sold, Quinn T. donates one fidget toy to a classroom to support neurodivergent students.
Oliver K's First Mates Creations featured a wide range of artistic creations from beach terrariums to rope bracelets made from materials found on local beaches.
Young baker Aurora R.'s colourful cupcakes were a popular treat savoured by many attendees.
One of the most popular vendors, Helen H. and Alise B. shared a table and offered fresh lemonade and cookies as well as rope bracelets.
All of Katherine's creations were one of a kind and hand painted.
A sample of Katherine's bright and colourful cards, bookmarks and bracelets.
Chef Jacob's baked goods were a hit at the Fair. Many a patron could be spotted with one of his rice krispy treats on a stick.
Harvey and Hadlee B . were offering rare trading cards and custom made shirts.
Cheerful positivity was the theme of Annalena M's bead-craft items including bracelets featuring words of inspiration.
Many people showed up to support friends neighbours and family members at the youth entrepreneur fair.
Despite the more than 30 degree heat, the youth entrepreneurs were all smiles.
