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Dunstable Town Council proudly hosted its second Dunstable Young Trader Market alongside their Middle Row Market on Saturday 5 July. The event forms part of the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) Young Traders campaign, which aims to support and inspire young entrepreneurs aged 16 to 30 to engage in local markets and develop their business skills.
Georgiana Bogatu founder of Scent & Bloom Collection, who was one of the winners of the Dunstable Young Trader Market showcasing her beautiful handmade bouquet candles, was put forward by the Town Centre Manager and the Town Mayor Cllr Sally Kimondo to the NMFT London & South East Young Trader Regional Finals in London.
Izzy’s Sweets from the Dunstable Young Trader Market, was also put forward to the Under 16 Category Regional Finals.
Dunstable’s young entrepreneurs truly made their mark at the London & South East Young Trader of the Year event, hosted by Broadway Market in partnership with Hackney Council. Competing against the region’s best, they impressed judges and visitors with their creativity, passion, and business flair.
We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of our local winners:
- Georgiana Bogatu, founder of Scent & Bloom Collection, was crowned Arts & Crafts Category Winner. Her brand stood out for its originality, elegant design, and professional presentation.
- In the Under 16 Category, Isobelle from Izzy’s Sweets won recognition for her colourful and delicious confections. Her energy, initiative, and attention to detail delighted both the judges and the public.
''Our young traders have done Dunstable proud. Their success at this regional event shows just how much talent and entrepreneurial drive exists in our town. We’re excited to see where their journey takes them next — they are a real inspiration to other young people in our community.'' Dunstable Town Mayor Cllr Sally Kimondo
''It was such a lovely day at the Middle Row Markets, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been recognised as one of the winners. To see my work appreciated in this way is both humbling and encouraging, especially being surrounded by so many talented young traders.''
The atmosphere was fantastic—so supportive and full of positive energy. Events like these really highlight how important community-driven markets are for small businesses like mine. Middle Row Markets had such a warm and welcoming vibe, and I felt proud to be part of it.
Most importantly, I wouldn’t have made it to the finals without first being selected as a category winner at Middle Row Market, so it’s been a truly pivotal moment in my journey. Now, I’m absolutely thrilled to be heading to the finals in Stratford-upon-Avon! Georgiana Bogatu, founder of Scent & Bloom Collection
''A big thank you to you and all the others at the council for supporting Isobelle, the markets have been a great experience for the girls and being able to go to London as well was brilliant. We are just so grateful to have a great Council behind us, who really looks after everyone.'' Isobelle - Izzy’s Sweets
Georgiana will be going to the National Final of the NMTF Young Traders Market, taking place in Stratford-upon-Avon on 23 August – a fantastic achievement!
Addtitonaly, other Dunstable Young Traders, Skye Alefounder from Country House Treats – Natural Pet Supplies and Massimo Resintastic will be going to the Regional Finals in Bury St Edmunds. They’re aiming to follow in the footsteps of our successful London Regional Finalist, and see them joining Georgiana in Stratford-upon-Avon!
We wish them all the best of luck!
