YOUNG GUNS

In an era when many are still figuring out what they want to do with their lives, a wave of creative young entrepreneurs are already making their mark. With no roadmaps, no investors, and no guarantees, they’re turning passion into profit, community into currency, and setbacks into stepping stones. What drives them isn’t just ambition — it’s purpose, independence, and a love for what they do. From fresh-out-of-school creatives and self-taught designers to quietly ambitious founders and community-minded trailblazers, this is a celebration of guts, grit, and a whole lot of heart.

WRITTEN BY DONNA RISHTON-POTTER

Here are five under 40s reshaping the business scene.

VAGUE SWIM – ELLA, 19

Swimwear Designer, Entrepreneur, Creative Visionary

Business HQ: Cabarita Beach, NSW

Founded: 2023

Brand: Vague Swim

At just 19, Ella launched Vague Swim straight out of high school. The idea was born during that familiar post-school limbo — feeling a little lost, a little unsure, and entirely “vague.” What began as a creative outlet quickly evolved into a thoughtful swimwear label with a growing following.

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From juggling multiple part-time jobs throughout her teens to fund the dream, to navigating major delays with her first summer drop, Ella has poured everything into the brand. “Every setback teaches you something and makes the brand stronger,” she says. The process has been as much about personal growth as it has been about business.

Now in its second year, Vague Swim ships globally and is known for its romantic cuts, dainty details, and sustainable, small-batch production. Every piece is crafted with intention — ethically made using recycled fabrics and designed to make the wearer feel confident, feminine, and sexy in their own skin.

But for Ella, Vague’s mission extends beyond swimwear. “Everyone involved in the Vague team are emerging female creatives, each forging their own path,” she says. “Vague is about creating opportunities, championing local talent, and empowering women — starting with those closest to home.”

What’s next in business?

Ella is dreaming bigger than ever — refining silhouettes, expanding collections, and deepening her impact in the slow fashion space.

@vagueswim | vague.swim.com

GRAMPA ED – GEORGE, 28

Barber, Community Builder, Accidental Café Owner

Business HQ: Banora Point, NSW

Founded: 2018

Brands: Grampa Ed Barbershop & Uncle George’s Coffee Shop

At just 23, George Saunders opened Grampa Ed, a one-chair barbershop with big heart. “There was this global wave of classic barbershops, and I thought — why not create something cool, local, and mine?” Inspired by the movement, he built a space that blended old-school charm with modern community vibes.

Now with three chairs, four barbers, and a fiercely loyal following, Grampa Ed has become a beloved hangout in Banora Point. But George didn’t stop there. When the shop next door became available, he backed himself again – relocating the barbershop and transforming the original space into a cafe. “I just didn’t want to see it sit empty,” he says. “I had no idea how to run a cafe — it’s been tougher than barbering, but we made it work.” Today, Uncle George’s Coffee Shop feels like a natural extension of the barbershop’s tight-knit community.

“For me, business is about building a life you love. I get to work with people I care about and give locals somewhere to connect.” His philosophy? “Prioritise happiness, don’t take it all too seriously, and build something that reflects who you are.”

“Running your own thing is laughter and tears,” George adds. Some weeks are rough, others feel golden. You just keep showing up.”

What’s next in business? George has just launched a laidback clothing and merch label under the Grampa Ed brand — a mix of relaxed fits, everyday staples, and nostalgic designs made for the community who’ve grown with him.

grampaed.com.au | @grampaedbarbershop | @unclegeorges_coffeeshop

TOGATI – PERRY, 29

Streetwear Designer, Storyteller, Self-Taught Creative

Business HQ: Cabarita Beach, NSW

Founded: 2023

Brand: Togati

For Perry, founder of streetwear label Togati, fashion became a lifeline long before it became a business. Growing up in Taree, he struggled to find his place. “I was getting into trouble, felt like an outcast, and eventually lost interest in everything,” he says. A move to the Tweed Coast changed everything. Immersed in surf, skate, and rap culture, Perry found a sense of identity — and an unexpected creative outlet. With no formal training, he began designing merch for mates in the music scene, unknowingly laying the foundation for his own brand.

In 2023, he took the leap. With just $3,000 — no loans, no investors — he printed twenty shirts and hit the local markets. They sold out, and Togati was born. While still working full-time, Perry pours long hours into the label, designing every detail “down to the millimetre.” There are no restocks, only new drops — always raw, always evolving.

Togati doesn’t follow trends — it speaks to those who never fit the mould. “This is for the misfits and outsiders,” Perry says. “I’m not trying to fit in — I’m building something for people like me.”

What’s next in business? Perry is doubling down on limited drops, deeper storytelling and pushing the boundaries of wearable identity. “It’s not just clothing,” he says. “It’s a message.”

togati.com.au | @togati.co

AZTECA – JESSIE RAE, 27 &

TOMMY, 35

Margarita Makers, Life Partners, Creative Risk-Takers

Business HQ: Billinudgel, NSW

Founded: 2020

Brand: AZTECA Margarita

Jessie Rae and Tommy were just “naïve enough to give it a go” when they launched AZTECA — a bottled margarita brand born from love, hustle, and a pandemic pivot. The couple met over a decade ago when Jessie, from rural California, was studying in Bangkok, and Tommy, a Mullumbimby local, was living large and travelling. Their paths eventually led them through Mexico, where their shared passion for flavour, food, and fiesta began to take shape.

Back in Australia, they started a humble Mexican taco stall. But when COVID shut down events overnight, they pivoted fast, bottling their signature margaritas instead. “We had no idea what we were doing — no money, no business background — but we cared deeply, and we let that guide us,” Jessie says.

AZTECA is bold, sun-drenched, and wildly authentic — clean, fresh, and free of nasties. From branding to bottling, every detail is done in-house with intention. Running a business as a couple hasn’t been without its challenges. “It puts pressure on everything,” Jessie admits. But they’ve stayed true to their values and to each other, growing slowly and intentionally. “We built something that tastes like us, looks like us, and feels like us.”

What’s next in business? New flavours are on the horizon, with plans to expand their retail footprint and explore creative brand collaborations — while maintaining the handmade, heart-led vibe that sets them apart.

aztecamargarita.com | @aztecamargarita

HIGHER SELF SKIN – AMANDA, 39

Skin Specialist, Industry Veteran, Standard Setter

Business HQ: Kingscliff, NSW | Gold Coast, QLD

Founded: 2022

Brand: Higher Self Skin

Amanda Elena might be pushing the edge of young gun territory — but starting in business at 17 and clocking over two decades in the skin and beauty industry, she’s absolutely earned her place. Throwing herself into the world of skin health with passion from such a young age, “I didn’t just build a business,” she says, “I built a career that’s taken me all over the world.” From working with elite brands to high-profile clients, Amanda’s drive and experience has become her edge.

In 2022, she channelled that expertise into the launch of Higher Self Skin — a results-driven clinic that’s as much about self-worth as it is about skin health. “This isn’t a cookie-cutter beauty menu,” she explains. “It’s about transformative results, tailored treatments, and real connection.”

“Those early days were all grit, grind and growth,” Amanda recalls. “But being young and underestimated fuels you. And my vision was always clear: create something iconic. Raise the standard. Never dilute it.”

Clients are drawn to Higher Self Skin for the glowing results, but they stay for Amanda’s honest, heart-led approach. Grounded in intention and precision, the brand is a bold testament to her refusal to play it safe.

What’s next in business? Amanda’s expanding into skin health education, mentorship and launching her own line of skin tools and home protocols. In her own words, “I’m only just getting started.”

@higherselfskin | higherselfskin.com.au