A young, vibrant and visionary entrepreneur, Jenell Pierre hopes that her story of resilience and hard work would inspire youths like herself to pursue their dreams despite challenges

A former science student of St. Stanislaus College, Jenell Pierre started her business ‘Bow-Jay’ in August 2011, as a mere 17-year-old. She sees her business venture as “ironic” because she always thought she would pursue studies in science.
“It’s bit of an irony because everyone expected me to go into a science related field. It all started during the period after I wrote CSEC. I found myself being creative with different things. I did a lot of online research on craft. I remember seeing fashion bows becoming popular so I bought one and observed how it was put together and thought to myself – ‘I can make this!’,” she recalled.
The creative thinker went right to work. With her concept in mind, she took a simple piece of ribbon and started moulding it into a bow. Pierre was ecstatic with her creation and showed her mother, who was very impressed. Pierre wore her bow design to church, and people inquired in amazement where she bought it from. When Pierre told them she had made it, they flocked her with requests for bows. Her cousin, who was visiting from overseas, indicated she would pay any amount for the bows. Pierre was impressed with the offer and this sparked her business idea.
As a science student, the CEO said it was difficult for her to start the business as she had no clue how to do so. However, her determination to start a bow business led to her being a part of an organisation called the Women’s Entrepreneurship Network (WENET) through Youth Challenge Guyana. This gave her the necessary tools to develop her business. Being with other entrepreneurs and listening to their experiences empowered this young business owner. Additionally, she did her own marketing research, sending out questionnaires and visiting businesses to find out pricing details. This, she pointed out, significantly helped with budgeting her designs.
“It can be overwhelming at times having to juggle my business, now pursuing Business Management at UG, church and personal matters, but I’m learning everyday to cope. Seeking advice from knowledgeable people has proven to be really helpful. Socializing with other entrepreneurs has been very encouraging. I also participate in various workshops which have helped me to be more business oriented. Also, research is pertinent in order to be very knowledgeable in your area of skill. Through my research I saw how some started off small just like me and now their brands are popular worldwide. This is my inspiration,” she disclosed.
