Okotoks will be transformed into a fantasy realm this Saturday, and the Okotoks Youth Entrepreneurs in Action, or "OYEA" will be amongst the vendors showcasing their wares.

The group was formed in March with the intention of providing local youth with an avenue to start their own businesses, as well as learn from established locally owned businesses through field trips and other events.

Co-founder of the group and local business owner Andrea Glowatsky says OYEA was formed after she saw entrepreneurial sprit in local kids.

"I volunteer for a lot of kids groups, and as I was talking to the kids they were always (saying) 'Aw I wish I could sell me things' or 'I had this great idea,' and there was no way for them to really figure out how to get that started."

GLOWATSKY says Okotoks has an excellent and supportive business community, and that they wanted to extend that community to younger entrepreneurs.

"I deal with a lot of businesses, and the number one thing is to help each other in our businesses. This is a small community, and if we're going to be doing that as adults, why can't we be doing that with the kids?"

Several young entrepreneurs from OYEA will be showcasing their products and services, including face painting, clothing, and yarn hang items.

The Enchanted Okotoks Youth Market takes place on Saturday, October 26th from 10am to 4pm at the Okotoks Library.

 

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