A graduate is taking the business world by storm after being named among the top young entrepreneurs in Wales.
Shaun Roberts started online marketing agency Creative Catalysts at the age of 19 with support from Glynd?r University.
Specialising in web design, marketing and SEO, Shaun has worked on projects for organisations across the region, including the Woodland Trust.
A graduate in Computer Network Management and Security and self-confessed “computer geek”, the 23-year-old is now studying for a PhD in Context Aware Computing and is forging close links with some of the area’s top companies.
Among them is Mike Scott, of Mike Scott Associates, providing mentoring and support to the Big Ideas Wales role model.
That said, having featured in Wales Online’s ’35 young men making their mark in business’ list recently, Shaun is now the one offering out advice to other up-and-coming entrepreneurs.
“When I was 14 I attended a Careers Wales event to inspire young entrepreneurs to work on their ideas,” he said.
“I immediately got the ‘business bug’ but it was five years later, after taking a Go Wales placement at the university, that I felt I had gained the confidence and knowledge I needed to start my own business.”
Shaun added: “When I started out I had a very broad view on how it may evolve; two years down the line the company has held true to its original aim.
“I provide a service which supports other new or growing businesses, I gain a great deal of satisfaction working with them, their business and providing them with an online marketing strategy that meets their needs.
“However, the most important thing about being my own boss is how much I enjoy it. The whole process of business just fascinates me, from the strategic planning for the future of the company to working with a very broad client base - every stage within my business is a passion-filled exercise.”
Shaun feels his youth and inexperience was an advantage rather than a barrier.
“When you start a business there are always some things you wish you’d have known beforehand, but you just learn and move forward.
“Mistakes are sometimes inevitable and doesn’t mean your business will fail, it’s all part of the entrepreneurial journey.”
Looking ahead, Glynd?r University continues to play a big part in Shaun’s life. He works closely with the careers team and Zone enterprise hub, offering support and tips to young entrepreneurs.
“Anyone can start a business, it can be on a very small scale or you can become a big international player, you just need the confidence to believe in yourself and surround yourself with positive people,” said Shaun.
For more information visit - http://www.creativecatalysts.co.uk
