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Young Entrepreneurs' Initiative (YEI)
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Get ready to network, learn, and have a blast at the Young Entrepreneurs Initiative (YEI). Hear stories of folks expanding beyond the market
Looking for a fun, relaxed, and inspiring way to connect with other local young (under 40) entrepreneurs? Join us for a FREE evening designed to help you unwind, make meaningful connections, and hear stories from fellow young entrepreneurs who are navigating their business in an uncertain time.
We’re bringing together the future leaders of our community together with:
- Panel discussion with young entrpreneurs that will discuss taking calculated risks and being comfortable with being uncomfortable.
- Fun and dynamic group for networking
- Delicious food and drinks from the newly renovated Skye Chase Winery
- Opportunities to meet and learn more about our incredible local sponsors
Panelists:
Caroline Somba, Founder & Principal CFO Consultant at Topspin Finance - With 14+ years of experience in Accounting & Finance managing billion-dollar portfolios for some of the most respected Fortune 500 companies globally, Caroline founded Topspin Finance to use her knowledge & expertise to help small businesses thrive and grow by anticipating client needs and offering proactive advice to aid informed decision making.
Angie Pruim, Co-Owner at Hive Surrogacy - A true leader in the surrogacy and egg donation space. With over 15 years of experience, Angie brings both professional expertise and a deeply personal perspective to her work. She's an experienced surrogate and egg donor, and above all a proud mom - so she understands firsthand that there are many meaningful ways to build a family. Angie has spent more than a decade building trusted connections in the industry and has always been a strong advocate for empathy, transparency, and support for everyone involved in the journey.
Shawn DeVree, Owner at Mrytle Shop - An entrepreneur and community advocate based in St. Thomas, Ontario, known for celebrating women, creativity, and thoughtfully curated goods, and the founder of Myrtle Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, a foster-based rescue helping animals find safe homes. With a passion for small business, community connection, and animal welfare, Shawn blends business leadership with grassroots impact. Her work reflects a belief that local businesses and compassionate action can meaningfully shape the communities they serve.
Whether you're just getting started or scaling your dream, this is the perfect chance to network, laugh, and build community in a laid-back setting.
Tickets are free, but RSVP is required. Bring a fellow entrepreneur and let’s make it a night to remember!
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Who We Are:
The Young Entrepreneurs' Initiative, known as the YEI, was developed by a grassroots committee of young entrepreneurs.
The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce responded to a gap in representation identified in the community and brought YEI on as a sub-committee of the Chamber.
We were created to serve young entrepreneurs under 40 in St. Thomas and the surrounding area with the goal of showcasing businesses, creating vibrant networking opportunities, and educating them for continued success.
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Our Mission:
Our mission at the YEI is to empower, inspire, and support the next generation of business leaders as they navigate the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship.
We aim to cultivate a vibrant community where young entrepreneurs can exchange ideas, access valuable resources, and forge meaningful connections that propel their ventures forward. Together, we envision a future where young entrepreneurs are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and network needed to realize their full potential and create lasting impact.
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Join Our Next Event:
Navigating Uncertainty
Thursday, March 26, 5-8pm
Skye Chase Winery - 45811 Fruit Ridge Line, St. ThomasFree Admission - RSVP here.
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Get in touch:
Interested in learning more about the YEI?
Send us an email or stay up to date with our newsletter at:

