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As schools try to prepare students for success after school, 16-year-old Morgan Hipworth took the initiative by launching his own business.
The idea was spawned from his hobby of making cakes for family and friends, but has now grown into a thriving doughnut shop – Bistro Morgan – located in Melbourne’s inner-city suburb of Prahran.
He knew he was on to something when a doughnut pop-up store he ran last year sold more than 10,000 units in one week.
Today, Hipworth employs two full-time bakers and several casuals. This allows him to operate the business after school and on weekends.
Hipworth told The Educator that he had chosen VCE subjects that fitted around his schedule with a plan to do most study during school hours.
“I think my real inspiration is it's what I love. I have looked cooking and baking since I was seven and that's really how everything started,” he said.
Hipworth said his teachers at Caulfield Grammar School deserve credit for supporting his drive to make Bistro Morgan a reality.
“My school has really supported me in my journey with Bistro Morgan, from general ‘how is everything going?’ passing in the yard to chatting more in depth with teachers,” he said.
“I think it has been really great the support given, especially as it can get very busy juggling the two - so that little bit of support can go a long way.
Hipworth gave some advice to students who have an entrepreneurial spirit but might lack the confidence to take that important first step.
“I think my main piece of advice would to just go for it. It's an amazing journey and if you know what you love there should be nothing stopping you from doing it,” he said.
“Besides from that I would recommend communicating with your family and school and talking through what you would like to do as it is very important to have everyone by your side supporting you through the journey.”