Step into our dynamic Entrepreneurial Summer Internship (ESI) Program, where ten remarkable student teams are granted a transformative summer job opportunity. During the season, they will have the opportunity to unleash their entrepreneurial spirit, crafting businesses from scratch, and accessing top-tier mentors, educational workshops, and a generous stipend. Meet our entrepreneurs and discover what inspires them and fuels their journey.
Meet Megan Brown, Founder of Nature Gemz.
What does your company do? Please write a short elevator pitch:
We are a handmade accessory brand specializing in candles, makeup, and tote bags. We create artisan, uniquely designed products with a personal touch and spark joy. We have a loyal social media following of 210K on TikTok, and we sell through e-commerce, markets, and retail stores. We are currently based out of London and Toronto.
What drew you to entrepreneurship?
From a young age, I have been passionate about entrepreneurship. I have run lemonade stands and charity events, raising money for environmental charities across Canada. My parents run their own business, inspiring and leading me toward entrepreneurship. I have always loved creativity and creating both art and crafts.
Elaborate on your business venture. What problem are you solving, and what is your unique approach?
I designed and curated all our products, offering patterns and designs that can’t be found anywhere else. We have been in business for almost 5 years, initially selling resin jewelry and keychains. We have a substantial online following of over 200,000 followers on TikTok and have sold nearly 2,000 product units. We have unique brand messaging and a loyal customer base, allowing us to pivot and sell various handmade products, from jewelry to makeup bags and candles. We offer products that cannot be found in any large retail store, giving a feeling of custom as both my grandma and I hand-make each bag.
What are you hoping to accomplish over the summer at ESI?
Over the summer, I plan to start shipping worldwide on my e-commerce store and expand product offerings to tote bags, laptop cases, and book sleeves. Our goals also include continuing to grow our social media presence, participating in more local markets, and selling at retail stores.
If your business had a theme song, what would it be?
"Good days" by SZA.
Who is your biggest entrepreneurial inspiration?
I really enjoy reading books related to entrepreneurship and self-development! I recently enjoyed The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber and The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.