08/12/2024
Young Entrepreneur Sparks Joy at Local Markets in NZ
At just 13 years old, Olena from Lenaz Beadz is making waves at local markets in her region, as one of New Zealand's youngest entrepreneurs, a journey that began after sharing her colourful designs with friends and family.
Olena, who specialises in creating vibrant, handmade, beaded bracelets, caught the eye of Local Markets NZ in October, so we decided to catch up with Olena in November to hear more about her journey and inspirations.
Olenas’ creations have quickly gained recognition from both seasoned sellers and loyal customers in the local market community, with her mum Fleur guiding her journey.
When asked about her favourite designs, Olena, who clearly puts her heart and soul into her work, regards her pieces as “pretty, stand out and they make a statement.”
The young artists' favourite creations are her bold pink and purple bead stacks, which have become best-sellers and a customer favourite.
Olenas’ family connection to breast cancer inspired her to create bold pink beaded bracelets in support of the Breast Cancer Awareness in October to coincide with the BCANZ annual appeal.
In Olena’s own words, she explains, “It is very close to my family, and I knew that the charity was fun and honest, even though they deal with a very serious illness.”
Olena’s approach to fundraising is refreshingly simple. “Every little bit counts!” she explains, “if everyone just gave a coin, it all adds up to make a big difference.”
Olena is determined to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer, stressing that '1 in 3 people in NZ are affected, and I know that it affects men too.”
When asked how she plans to continue her support, Olena is committed and says “every time the charity has a volunteer day, or a collection, I want to be involved,” demonstrating drive and maturity beyond her years, a characteristic that transcends into her extracurricular sporting activities.
The list of achievements has been numerous in 2024, with Olena participating in Counties Manukau Gymnastics, Papakura Rugby/Netball Club, and Year 8 athletics collecting an impressive array of awards, medals and trophies.
Olena’s short-term goal is to make as many bracelets as she can before the holiday rush!
For the upcoming festive season, Olena has also added ‘limited edition’ colours to her collection, as well as clay charms with a young ‘BFF’ aesthetic, perfect for gifting to teenagers and adults alike.
“Adding new colours for the holiday’s is so much fun, and I am seeing a lot of excitement on the ground in markets” says Olena, as she talks about her designs that make a statement.
In the long term, Olena envisions Lenaz Beads growing with the addition of an online store and hopes to still be in business this time next year. While she hasn’t yet set her sights on becoming a full-time entrepreneur, she sees creativity as a definite part of her future
Olenas mum Fleur is super proud of her daughters' achievements, encouraging academic development and growth, with Olena securing a 5-year scholarship with a private school in Auckland.
Local Markets NZ wishes Lenaz Beadz all the best in 2025.
For more information about Lenaz Beadz head to her socials
FB Lenaz Beadz
Instagram: lenazbeadz
TikTok: .beadz
Local Markets NZ supporting 'Local' since 2021 with Hercules Instant Shelter
