October 23, 2008 - Vancouver business owners win Entrepreneur of the Year Awards

Allison Kanderka conquered money, health and car problems to take an award in the perseverance category. Kanderka had just $500 in her bank account when she started Alleycat Music, a rehearsal studio for musicians located in East Vancouver. After banks and private investors rejected her requests for help, she got a $15,000 loan from the Canadian Youth Business Foundation.

But Kanderka's challenges didn't end there. She has since slogged through a bad fall that left her with a fractured skull and concussion and two back-to-back car collisions.

"I wouldn't be human if I didn't have moments of asking `What did I get myself into?' I remind myself that it will be hard and try to keep my vision in sight," says Kanderka.

Kanderka tied with Ed Lapins of EAL Trucking in Pitt Meadows for the perseverance award.

Tim Wong's Chi Activate has come a long way from its start as a one-man operation based in Wong's one-bedroom apartment. The online retailer of beauty and massage products now has over 200 resellers across North America. He moved his business to an office with three employees in August. Chi Activate's Neck Traction Device will be featured on Global TV's da Kink in my Hair early next year.

Wong, winner of the high-tech category, says market research, social marketing and networking with fellow graduates of the Self Employment Program at Douglas College are the keys to his success. "I made a lot of alliances in the Self Employment Program. We still get together and share ideas with one another," says Wong.

The Entrepreneur of the Year Awards recognize graduates of the Douglas College Self Employment Program. This year, 20 finalists were nominated for awards in eight categories. Last night's celebrations at the Executive Plaza Hotel in Coquitlam coincided with Small Business Week. Over 300 program alumni and special guests attended.

For more information on the Douglas College Self Employment Program, please contact 604-777-6012.