VEND Marketplace Virginia is shining a light on the next generation of small business owners with its Young Entrepreneur Program, which takes centre stage this month at the Young Entrepreneur Pop Up Market.
The market, an extension of the program, features young creators, makers and innovators aged 10 to 17 taking their first steps into business.
Retail Manager Cory O’Brien said the program offered passionate, creative young minds a unique opportunity to experience real-world retail in a supportive, professional environment.
“Participants set up their own mini-storefront, sell their handmade or curated products, and gain hands-on experience in marketing, customer service, and small business operations – all without the burden of rent or commission fees,” Cory said. “It’s a platform to grow confidence, build entrepreneurial skills and connect with a community that values creativity and innovation.”
Meet the Young Entrepreneurs
Among the stallholders is 17-year-old Georgina, founder of Created by Gina, who started her business at just nine. Her offerings include tumblers, mirror decals, trolley tokens and a new keychain collection.
“The market is a great opportunity to meet like-minded young entrepreneurs and share my passion of helping people create a love they love!” Georgina said.
Also showcasing her work is 14-year-old Estella Hopkins of Starseed Designs, who creates handmade earrings, necklaces and bracelets featuring crystals and freshwater pearls.
Jaz Boardman, 14, runs JB’s Army Candy, selling beaded bracelets, keyrings, pens and lanyards.
Jaz’s mother, Lisa, said the markets were a great opportunity for Jaz.
“Jaz also has improved her self-esteem and social skills by promoting her beautiful products to the community and is looking forward to buying herself something nice in the near future with her earnings,” Lisa said.
Xavier (11) and Alex D’Souza (12) bring a team effort with EnJoY by Alex and Xavier. Xavier makes resin décor, keychains and bookmarks, while Alex creates greeting cards and personalised items.
Twelve-year-old Sienna Powell will debut Hook & Loop, her handmade crochet stall featuring beanies, snoods and amigurumi designs.
“I’ve been working hard for the past couple months trying to build up stock and I can’t wait as I will get to showcase all of my effort alongside other people my age,” Sienna said. “It will be a great first step for me and my business.”
Also attending is Mackie Sta Maria, 12, of Kayla’s Creations, with handmade beaded charms, amigurumi crochet keychains and plushies.
“Markets give me the opportunity to showcase the things I am passionate about,” Mackie said. “I get to meet a lot of people and experience what it’s like to run a small business.”
Applications for the Young Entrepreneur Program open seasonally at Virginia and Annerley.
Young Entrepreneur Pop Up Market
- Saturday, 14 June, 9am-12pm
- VEND Virginia
- 1768 Sandgate Road, Virginia
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