Pelin ozesen
Editor

Betsy Campos has never forgotten her alma matter. The founder of Ūnika Swim has hired numerous George Brown students to, in her website’s words, make every women deserve “to feel confident in their swimsuit, no matter what size, age or shape.” With a storefront in Yorkville, Campos has transformed a dream into success.

Campos appeared at the #WhyNotMe Alumni Entrepreneur Founders Panel, part of the George Brown College Celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week 2019. Set up by the School of Fashion & Jewellery, in her speech she pointed out how important was her relationship with her fellow classmates during her education. “Building a brand requires more than fashion knowledge, you need to know supply-chain and marketing too. George Brown has students from all fields so I have always tried to work with my classmates, because I knew that they will be ones that I will work with”.

A former student at George Brown College, Campos spoke alongside three entrepreneurs, Supramorphous founder Luis Padilla, Sarah Dougall of Made You Look, and Brazil Heels’ Lilia Costa. All shared their experience starting their business in the fashion industry from the ground up.

Campos was quick to offer advice to future entrepreneurs, as well as hopefuls for ŪNIKA. “Showing up and showing out,” she says on what she looks for, “putting your best foot forward.

The name “Ūnika”, latin for unique, was chosen to reflect that all swimwear is custom made for all customers. And Campos, ever confident, feels all the students are heading towards the right direction. “Me, myself, (did) lunch and learns,” she recalls, “it’s a good tactic to use for your advantage.” She finishes with a smile, “you never know who you’re going to meet.”

Campos’s own success strategy included scheduling lunch and learns in order to build her network. She offers this advice to future entrepreneurs or future Ūnika staff, “Show up and show out,” and “ask questions.”