A SIXTH form pupil has set out to create a business that will kit out the younger generation.
Despite being just 18 years old, business-minded Sienna Zdubek, from Great Houghton, has big aspirations to make her dream of owning her own clothing brand come true.
Sienna’s inventive ideas have secured her a Young Champions nomination, showcasing her impressive entrepreneurial spirit.
The talented young businesswoman first went about turning her passion for streetwear into a business after securing £450 in funding through Barnsley College’s enterprise programmes.
Sienna’s clothing brand ‘Svenja’ is in the early stages of development, with the youngster reaching out to suppliers and making moves to begin production after her course ends.
First, she received £250 from the Barnsley College Enterprising Futures (BCEF) fund.
The youngster went on to secure an additional £200 support from Barnsley College Futurepreneurs - a series of entrepreneurial challenges that help young innovators access funding and develop their business ideas.
Sienna admitted that developing a business at such a young age has been a surreal experience, especially when dealing with other professionals.
her studies helped her develop her business plan, studying A-Levels in business, economics and English language and literature.
The college pupil also participated in a Dragons’ Den-style event, pitching her business to a panel of investors to secure further funding.
Sienna told the Chronicle how she channelled her passion for streetwear into a real concept.
She said: “Currently I’m speaking to suppliers and the tech packs have been created.
“Nothing concrete is planned yet because of my A-Levels, but I’m hoping after I’ve finished college, especially in the summer I’ll have more time to act on it.
“I’ve always been interested in fashion and when I’ve bought from brands before I’ve never loved everything in their collection.
“I’d like to create a brand where I would love to wear everything.
“It’s for people around my age and is inspired by the type of clothes they are wearing.
“I’m not sure about what the future holds just yet, I’ve applied to university and been accepted, but that’s to study English.
“I’m hopeful because I want to see my business take off first and have university as a back-up option.”
Lee Perks, enterprise team leader, praised Sienna’s dedication.
He said: “Sienna was part of our first BC Futurepreneurs group, and it was inspiring to see her embrace every challenge.
“I’m excited to support Sienna in her next steps and eager to see all she accomplishes.”
