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

The motivation to start Luma Vita Counselling came from a profound experience I had while working as an educational assistant. I had the privilege of supporting students with diverse needs, including a young boy with autism. As I worked closely with him and his peers, I realized that many of these children were struggling with emotional challenges that went beyond their academic needs. They needed someone to talk to, someone who could listen and provide guidance without judgment. I soon came to understand that when someone is emotionally struggling, they don't have the capacity to learn or thrive. This experience sparked a passion within me to pursue a career in counselling. I wanted to create a safe and supportive space where individuals, couples, and families could find comfort and guidance. Luma Vita Counselling was born from this vision, with the goal of being a beacon of hope and support for people's emotional well-being. We strive to be the unbiased, empathetic ear that everyone deserves, helping our clients not just survive but thrive in the face of life's challenges. As I look to the future, my vision for Luma Vita is to continue spreading hope and light to those who need it most. In the short term, we're excited to launch a golf fundraiser to raise money for individuals and families who cannot afford counselling. We believe that mental health support should be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial means. Additionally, we're organizing a Spring clothing drive to collect gently used items and distribute them to those in need. We understand the importance of clothing in shaping one's identity and confidence, and we want to help bridge the gap for those who struggle to access basic necessities. In the long term, our goal is to expand our reach and services, allowing us to support even more people in our community. We're committed to building a team of compassionate and skilled professionals who share our vision of empowering individuals to find their inner strength and resilience. As we grow, we'll continue to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of our clients, always keeping their well-being at the forefront of our mission. Ultimately, my vision for Luma Vita Counselling is to create a ripple effect of kindness, compassion, and hope that spreads far beyond our walls. We're not just a counselling service – we're a community of care, dedicated to helping people find the light within themselves and shine their brightest.

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

As a young entrepreneur in the mental health field, I have demonstrated a unique ability to grow my business with dignity and grace, always ensuring that the well-being of our clients remains our top priority. I am proud of my unwavering commitment to both my clients and my team of counsellors at Luma Vita. What sets me apart is my innovative approach to counselling. I strive to help clients not only work through their challenges but also discover joy in the process. This positive-focused methodology has proven effective and distinguishes our services in the market. My dedication to continuous learning and self-improvement is another key factor. Since graduating, I have consistently pursued further education and training, recognizing that the field of mental health is ever-evolving. This commitment to ongoing professional development enables me to provide the best possible care for our clients and stay at the forefront of counselling practices. Furthermore, as a young entrepreneur, I've successfully expanded Luma Vita from a solo practice to a team of four counsellors with two office locations in a short span. This growth demonstrates my business acumen and leadership skills, all while maintaining a client-centered approach. Lastly, my vision extends beyond just running a successful business. I'm actively working on initiatives like fundraisers and clothing drives to make mental health support more accessible to those in need, showcasing my commitment to social responsibility. I am not just building a business- I am building a community of care and support that makes a real difference in people’s lives. In essence, my blend of entrepreneurial spirit, innovative counselling approach, commitment to continuous learning, and dedication to community service make me a strong candidate for the Best Youth Entrepreneur Award.

Why do you think you should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award?

Luma Vita Counselling is a shining example of a small business that is making a significant impact in the community. Our dedication to supporting the Fraser Valley area and beyond is evident in everything we do. We offer a range of services, including in-person, online, and Telehealth sessions, ensuring that everyone has access to the mental health support they need. What sets us apart is our team of passionate and dedicated counsellors who are committed to helping others. We've experienced rapid growth, expanding from a single counsellor to a team of four, and from one office to two, allowing us to reach even more people in need. Our growth is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and we're proud of the positive impact we're having in the community. But our commitment to the community doesn't stop there. We're also building a social media presence that will provide psychoeducation and resources to individuals who may not be ready for counselling, or those who want to continue their personal growth after their sessions. Our upcoming blog will offer valuable insights and information on counselling and healing, further solidifying our position as a trusted resource in the community. One of our most exciting initiatives is our upcoming golf fundraiser, which aims to raise money for individuals and families who cannot afford counselling. This event demonstrates our commitment to making mental health services accessible to everyone, regardless of financial means. We believe that Luma Vita Counselling deserves to win a Small Business BC Award because of our tireless efforts to support the community, our commitment to accessibility and flexibility, and our innovative approach to business practices. We're proud of what we've accomplished, and we're excited to continue making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve. Our business embodies the spirit of the Small Business BC Awards, which recognize and celebrate the achievements of small businesses that are driving innovation, creating jobs, and making a difference in their communities. We would be honored to receive this award, and we believe that it would be a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team.