BDC – Celebrating Small Business Week 2024
The Power of Small: Defying the Odds
October 20-26 2024
We ❤️ our members! Starting a business takes courage, determination, and a lot of hard work. This week, we're celebrating the incredible small business owners who make it happen.
Laurabel Mba Consulting
Laurabel Mba, CEO
Your pioneering destination for anti-racism and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) solutions.
I chose to create and operate my small business in Newfoundland and Labrador because this place has become home for me in so many ways. After relocating here for university and deciding to stay, I’ve grown to appreciate the rich tapestry of this province and its people. My son Theo is my biggest inspiration, and it’s important to me that he grows up in a community that values inclusion, equity, and understanding. I strive to be part of the change that ensures Newfoundland and Labrador is a place where everyone belongs and thrives!
What keeps you going & keeps you motivated?
The impact of my work on creating inclusive spaces fuels my passion and perseverance.What is one thing you've learned that you'd pass along to other small businesses?
Embrace diversity in your team; it fosters innovation and drives growth!
Bellie Beth
Winona Browne, Owner
Confidence & comfort, one bra at a time.
I started Bellie Beth to fill a gap I saw in the market for personalized body-positive bra fitting. I wanted to create a space where women could feel confident, understood, and supported, both in the products we offer and in the way we treat them. Our close-knit community makes it the perfect place to build lasting relationships with customers, ensuring every woman that walks through our doors feels important & empowered.
What keeps you going & keeps you motivated?
Knowing we are literally changing lives by changing how women feel about themselves.What is one thing you've learned that you'd pass along to other small businesses?
Don't be afraid to take calculated risks, and remember that you belong just as much as anyone else.
Gian's Kitchen
Angellette Del Carmen, Owner
I wanted a vibrant restaurant known for its eclectic menu that blends traditional Newfoundland flavors with international cuisine.
What is one thing you've learned that you'd pass along to other small businesses? Nothing is easy in starting one and nothing is difficult if everyone works together. Focus on growing the business, be hardworking, have patience... persevere and endure the cycle! Always be kind. Have a goal in business and give your customer exemplary service.
What keeps you going & keeps you motivated?
First of all my family gives me inspiration to work hard , people that trust me and give me opportunity to grow my business , my staff that I also want to help and the community that I want to serve.