FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“28th Annual Provincial Awards Celebrates Youth Entrepreneurial Excellence”
Youth Ventures Newfoundland & Labrador hosts its biggest event of the year to recognize the achievements of youth entrepreneurs.
Youth Ventures Award winners celebrate at the 28th Annual Provincial Awards Ceremony.
ST. JOHN’S, NL – Ten entrepreneurs, along with a dedicated program mentor and regional coordinator from across Newfoundland and Labrador have been recognized for their business acumen, creativity and hard-work through CBDC’s Youth Ventures program.
This year, the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of CBDCs also announced the recipient of the 2025 CBDC Provincial Business of the Year Award during the provincial celebration.
The awards mark the end of another successful program year, celebrating the hundreds of youth who took the leap into business ownership and gained valuable experience that will benefit them for years to come. Through their efforts, each recipient developed unique business ideas, built strong customer relationships, and made lasting contributions to their local communities.
The following individuals and businesses were recognized for their achievements:
CBDC Provincial Business of the Year Award:
Anna Paytyan and Suren Margaryan, Cakeyhand, sponsored by CBDC
Youth Ventures Award Categories and Recipients:
Venture of the Year
Jake Thompson, NL Now Productions, sponsored by CBDC
Excellence in Food Service
Olivia Penney, Rolling in the Dough, sponsored by Jungle Jim’s
Excellence in Arts & Tourism
Jaden Melvin, Melvin’s Mini Museum, sponsored by Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador
Excellence in Marketing
Alana Kearley, Wax & Wonders, sponsored by Islandwide Promotions
Excellence in Financial Management
Stephanie Clarke, Lady Luck & Lady Locks MJ Beauty & Style Shop, sponsored by Newfoundland and Labrador Credit Union
Community Impact
Kaisey McFatridge, Kaisey’s Dance Corner, sponsored by Atlantic Chamber of Commerce
Environmentally Sustainable Award
Ryan Easton, Ryan’s Recycling Services Inc., sponsored by econext
Excellence in Customer Service
Jacob Sheppard & Jacob Kirby, Avalon360, sponsored by iDesign
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Juliette Osmond, J’s Creative Mix, sponsored by Northpine Foundation
Mentor of the Year
Shena Fowler, Whaler’s Quest Ocean Adventures, sponsored by CBDC
Star Coordinator
Mandy Clarke, Southern Labrador / Strait of Belle Isle Community Youth Network, sponsored by CBDC
“I am continually impressed by the creativity and dedication of our young entrepreneurs. For over 30 years, the CBDCs have proudly supported, encouraged, and empowered aspiring business leaders,” said Wayne Power, Chairperson of the NL Association of CBDCs. “Youth Ventures is a testament to what’s possible when young people are given the tools and confidence to take their ideas and run with them. From handmade products and local services to sustainability ventures, these young entrepreneurs are shaping the future of Newfoundland and Labrador’s business landscape. Congratulations to all participants, and we look forward to supporting your businesses in the future.”
The Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), contributed $508,790 towards the delivery of the Youth Ventures program this year.
“I’m proud to celebrate the amazing young entrepreneurs recognized at this year’s Youth Ventures Awards,” said the Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for ACOA. “These rising stars are launching businesses, creating jobs, and building strong communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. ACOA continues to invest in programs that help youth turn bold ideas into thriving businesses. If you’ve got a dream, take that first step. With the right tools and resources, success is within reach.”
About Youth Ventures NL
Since 1992, Youth Ventures has helped thousands of young Newfoundland and Labradorians start and grow their own businesses. The program operates in communities across the province through local delivery partners that employ Regional Coordinators who assist with idea development, business planning, marketing direction, accessing financing, mentorship, and more. Since inception, Youth Ventures has helped more than 8,300 youth explore entrepreneurship and has assisted in the creation of 5,300 youth-owned businesses.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Robyn Evans, Provincial Coordinator, Youth Ventures NL
(709) 745-4406 ext. 202
Roseanne Leonard, Managing Director, NL Association of CBDCs
(709) 691-5530