Some long-standing southwestern Ontario business owners shared their struggles to reach the top and stay there today. Their stories were part of a London Chamber of Commerce summit designed to engage the next generation of entrepreneurs and business students amidst trade wars and a tough global economy. Yet, even in challenging times, a panel of established leaders expressed the ongoing need to take risks. “I invite everybody to, you know, take that chance!”, expressed Brett Lucier, the owner of Provincial Glass and Mirror. Lucier and other leaders shared the stories of their legacy companies. Many have weathered past recessions and trade crises. Andrew Tepperman, the executive chairman of his family’s namesake home furnishings chain, argued that long-term business goals remain achievable. “Is the current trade dispute hurting us? Yes, definitely. It is very difficult moving your supply chain around,” he conceded. But Michael Abela, a manager at the Business Development Bank of Canada, contended opportunities remain. “Perhaps the biggest takeaway this year is this: Canadian entrepreneurs have stopped waiting for certainty, which is a huge theme change. They’re focusing on what they can control and taking definitive action.” Still, for those still in school, uncertainty is unnerving. “I think it’s overwhelming, to be quite frank with you, especially if you keep up with politics,” remarked Western University business student Ann Ta, who is set to graduate next spring. Still, Ta remains optimistic her chance will come. “When you really find that one internship, or that one extra-curricular that motivates you, it could open so many doors to the people and the kind of work you want to do.” And a little inspiration from those who’ve already done it is helpful, said Sanad Bizanti, a first-year university student. “Just learning from people who started in their basement, and people who started from one call the whole year, I mean, now look, they are multi-million-dollar corporations, internationally! And so, we just have to recognize that the goal is achievable… if you put in the work.”
