Business Department News

Teen Entrepreneur of the Year Award Finalist

Marist College Ashgrove’s very own Angus Healy, 11 Foley, has been announced as a finalist in the Teen Entrepreneur of the Year Award from The Teens in Business Awards Initiative. 

Three entrepreneurial education experts run these Awards; Young Change Agents, Tech Girls Movement and BOP Industries. Their mission is to recognise young people across Australia who have creative ideas, develop and run amazing businesses, and create value for their communities.

The competition judges are industry leaders and include ZIPPAY co-founder Peter Gray and Australian-born entrepreneur Fred Schebesta, founder of global financial technology company Finder.

The judges consider four main points when selecting a winner; the business model, market potential, management team and momentum. Winners in each category will share in a prize pool valued at $20,000.00, including mentoring, experiences, and prizes. Select teams will also have the opportunity to pitch at the leading entrepreneurial festival – SparkFest, in mid-October.

Angus started his business called Happy Paws by Angus in 2018. The business was born out of a love of animals and a desire to have pets.  Because of overseas travel, Angus was unable to have his own dog, so he did the next best thing, he borrowed someone else’s! According to Angus, “Things just took off from there!” Angus now provides loyal and loving care to dogs from the North Brisbane area and prides himself on his patience, kindness, and competence.

His work ethic centres on this quote: “Don’t sit down and wait for opportunities to come. Get up and make them” – Madam C.J. Walker That work ethic has seen Angus grow his business into a multi-dog walking, minding and boarding business. Although Happy Paws doesn’t currently have employees, Angus hopes that being involved with the Teens In Business Awards will allow him to speak with business industry experts and gain valuable advice to help him create a pathway to expand his business into other areas of Brisbane.

 Angus’ 5-year goals include attending University, obtaining a degree in Social Work, and growing his business. Angus’ big picture goal is to one day purchase a rural property that would allow him to cater to many more dogs!

MCA wishes Angus good luck with his business and in all your future endeavours! Keep aiming high!