Young newcomers create their own business

Some junior high students in Charlottetown are trying their hands at running their own business.

It's part of a program specifically to teach newcomer youth about entrepreneurship.

The PEI association for newcomers to Canada (PEIANC) organized the program in partnership with the PEI Young Millionaires Program, and with a grant from the National Bank.

Seasonal business

Ten young newcomers worked together through the fall to create their business: Global Reindeer.

The products: reindeer noses (chocolate balls), and reindeer food (for kids to lay out to attract reindeer).

"Because it's close to Christmas time … It'll be I think the right product to sell," said participant Haia Alzobe.

The Young Millionaires Program  provided lessons and mentors to help the kids get started on their business.

They didn't just decide on a product. The kids had to create a contract, a business plan, do market surveys, and more.

Alzobe said she learned many lessons about running a business.

"That like, whatever the product costs … by selling it we have to get the same amount of money, you know what I mean," she said.

After creating their plans, the kids spent a full day packaging their products — about 1,200 altogether.

Learning experience

They had their first shot at sales at the Eastlink Christmas fair last weekend. They sold about $400 worth of product — making a dent in the $1,000 or so that went into the business.

But organizers with the PEIANC said profit or not, the learning experience is worth it.

"Even if they are not successful in making a big profit, I think it will teach them that sometimes having an idea is very different in your head and when it actually comes and becomes concrete," said youth settlement services coordinator Rocio McCallum.

McCallum said she hopes introducing the kids to entrepreneurship will give them another option to consider for their futures.

"There is this big option of starting your own business, and it's very appealing to newcomers," said McCallum.
"I wouldn't be surprised if I see a couple of these kids becoming entrepreneurs in the future."

The young entrepreneurs will also be at the at the Glen Stewart/Stratford Elementary craft fair at the end of the month. They also plan to start selling the crafts door to door. 

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