What motivated you to start your business and what is your vision for the future of the company?

We saw a gap in our community and sought out to fill it. Through Grateful, we bring unique products to our customers and one-of-a-kind beverage options through our bar. We prioritize creating community-centred events that are first of their kind in our area, and uplift the local culture. We hope to continue to create annual happenings that bring excitement, joy and connection to our community. We also hope to continue curating unique offerings for our customers, and listening to their wants and needs!

Why do you deserve to win the Best Youth Entrepreneur Award?

We opened our doors on my 26th birthday. Since my early twenties, I have been creating businesses and failing forward - all of which led me to Grateful. I know the road of entrepreneurship is not easy, and you can often feel at odds with the world, and with yourself. Grateful is the sum of all the hard work, dedication, trial and error and community initiative that being a young, successful entrepreneur requires. I hope to inspire other young people in our town, and throughout the corridor, to create something that feels passionate for them, trust their gut and take chances.