Landsharks has been closely affiliated with Saugatuck Public Schools since we opened our doors in 1989. Over the years, we've had the unique opportunity to connect with youth in the community through various partnerships with the school. Mr. Smit's Business Foundations class visits us annually. It's always exciting for us to connect with young people who, like us, are interested in business, marketing, and customer service. 

Allegan County grants thousands of dollars in scholarships to high school seniors every year, but it came to our attention that there is no specific award for students pursuing business. This year, in partnership with Saugatuck High School, we created the Landsharks Entrepreneurial Scholarship. This award grants $1,500 to a student pursuing a business degree, starting a business out of high school, or pursuing a skill-based trade for the purpose of self-employment. We were inspired to start this scholarship, in part, by the students who visit our store with Mr. Smit's class. Their curiosity and excitement in learning how our business is run inspired us to give back, and we believe this scholarship has the potential to meaningfully contribute to the businesses that will shape our community in the future. 

The Landsharks Entrepreneurial Scholarship is awarded to a student who possesses qualities such as ambition, entrepreneurial spirit, and creative vision. This year, we awarded our scholarship to Natalia Laskowski. Natalia says her family inspired her enthusiasm for small business ownership. Many of her siblings, and her parents themselves, are entrepreneurs. "My parents have always encouraged us to start our own businesses so we don’t feel stuck in a 9-to-5 job. I want the freedom to choose my own hours and be my own boss. More importantly, I want my work to be something I genuinely enjoy. That’s why I’m drawn to baking." After high school, Natalia plans to start an organic baking business, blending her love of baking with her belief in a healthy, natural lifestyle. "High-quality ingredients are extremely important to me because they reflect the values behind my brand: health, quality, and purity."

One business that inspires Natalia is the Starfish project, which employs girls and women who have been victims of human trafficking. "If there's ever been a meaningful cause to support through business, I think this is one of the best examples. The Starfish Project doesn’t just remove girls from harmful situations and help them recover, they equip them with skills they can use for the rest of their lives. They give them something they can lean into for a source of income and something to be proud of." 

Natalia plans to use the scholarship aid to fund her business startup. Soon, she'll be bringing delicious and healthy baked goods to the community, while also utilizing her cake decorating skills. We are so excited to see her business succeed! Landsharks is honored to have been a contributor to Natalia's upcoming business venture. Next year, we plan to award another Entrepreneurial Scholarship to a member of Saugatuck High School's class of 2027!

Congratulations Natalia!