SIX-YEAR-OLD Christopher Joseph Barran’s parents – Channey Wong and Christopher Barran – were all too excited to help him launch his business, Little Barran’s Enterprise (Little BE), at the recent Art of Collaboration event.
The pupil who attends Marian Academy launched the business two weeks ago with his parents’ help, providing children with stationery.

The idea of helping Christopher start his own business started when he’d go to stay with either of his parents after school at their workplaces. He was always intrigued by their work and showed a deep interest in it. “We were his aftercare, and usually when he’s there, he’s always curious about what we’re doing, and he asks a lot of questions,” his mother Channey shared with Pepperpot Magazine.
“We thought, if he’s so curious, why not let him start his own business? We started teaching him at an early age not just the fundamentals of business but also responsibility and to learn to save at an early age,” she added.
Artist Roberta Nichols invited Christopher to collaborate with her as one of the youngest entrepreneurs at her event, where he launched the business.

He was able to have a little table with his items laid out without anyone’s help. “He set up his table, put up his little signage, got dressed with his bag and when his customers came to him, he was able to introduce himself and tell them about his business,” Channey recalled.
Christopher was able to write up his receipts, make his customer’s change; he used a calculator if it was a large amount. “He was one hundred percent involved with the business,” his mom said.

Whenever he would need to order items for the business, this is where his parents would step in. They would go online, show him the items and he would point out what he thinks his customers would like.
Following the launch, he was able to get a shelf space at The Sach Store, located opposite Woodlands Hospital on Carmichael Street in Georgetown, where his items are available for purchase.
As a dedicated kids’ stationary shop, Little BE specialises in providing a “magical” selection of stationary items that inspire young minds and bring joy to learning, creativity and crafting.

“At Little BE, we understand that children need more than just functional tools; they need products that spark their imagination and make everyday activities fun and exciting.
From colourful notebooks and quirky pencils to innovative art supplies and fun accessories, our shop is a haven for kids who love to express themselves through writing, drawing and crafting,” Channey said.
As a participant of the recently held ‘Road to Growth’ programme by ActionINVEST Caribbean Inc., the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women and ExxonMobil Foundation, Channey, owner of Mommy and Me Gy, benefited from tools shared to develop her entrepreneurial skills.

As a mom and business owner with a 9 to 5 job, she explained that it was challenging to juggle it all. However, she was able to create a work-life balance.
Her word of encouragement to fellow small business owners: “Do understand that the journey ahead would be challenging, but it is also rewarding beyond measure. Each setback is a lesson and a stepping stone that brings you closer to your goal.”