Guest Column: Why I decided to help young entrepreneurs

Editor's note: The Town of Newmarket Bulletin participated in the Ontario Summer Company program. In the course of this program, young entrepreneurs were introduced to local business people who offered their advice and support as mentors. J.R. Genua, owner of Centre Square Solutions Corp,, was asked to reflect on why he decided to to be a mentor within the Ontario Summer Company program.

When I finished school I interviewed for a job at a company that I didn’t get. What I did get though was an introduction to someone in that company that gave me the opportunity to be an entrepreneur, rather than an employee.

Entrepreneurship is a genuine career path, but unfortunately does not come with a procedures manual or a training program.

I decided to become a business mentor in the Summer Company program with York Small Business Enterprise Centre to help young entrepreneurs learn from my experience, my success, and my failures.

I’ve had many mentors throughout my career and learning from them has been invaluable to my businesses growth and success and I jumped at the opportunity to be a mentor. I discovered that mentoring isn’t just a one-way process. I’ve learned many new things and continuously was amazed at the perspective these young entrepreneurs have that I didn’t see.

Although this year's Summer Starter program with YSBEC is over I look forward to keeping in touch with everyone I have met. I encourage all entrepreneurs of all ages to get involved with your community, your local chamber of commerce, and of course, take advantage of all resources available to you to continue to grow your business, develop your network, and expand your knowledge.

Jason R. Genua

Centre Square Solutions Corp.

jason@centresquaresolutions.com