From humble beginnings to growing success, senior Laniyah Pierre’s business “Sweet Treats by Niyah” continues to expand. 

       Pierre was inspired by the time she spent with her mom in the kitchen, turning those moments into the foundation for her new business.

     “Since I was little I’ve always been in the kitchen with my mom baking and cooking,” Pierre said. “It was either treats for Christmas or preparing for Thanksgiving meals with my family.”

     In the summer of 2023, Pierre participated in the Summer Youth Internship program. After receiving her first check, she used the money to buy the main ingredients and items needed to start her business. 

     “I needed to start practicing with my items even if there was hesitation,” Pierre said. “I did feel apprehensive about starting at first, but that did not stop me.”

     With her friends and family’s support, she took the next step and created the company’s Instagram page, @sweettreatsbyniyah, which hit 100 followers the same day. 

     Aside from taking orders over the phone, Pierre uses the Instagram account to stay connected with her customers and gather feedback to improve future orders. 

     Balancing school and a business simultaneously has been challenging, but Pierre said she makes adjustments to her schedule when needed and manages her time to successfully handle both responsibilities. 

     “I have a set schedule and a policy for my business where I make sure that if someone needs something they order it 3-4 days in advance,” Pierre said. “This is so that I can know the tasks that I have at hand and not overwhelm myself with school and work.” 

      Since starting up Sweet Treats by Niyah, Pierre’s clientele has steadily increased, growing from a small clientele of 10-20 people to over 100 customers. 

     “Now, I’m not only making a profit but I am also meeting a lot of new people and enjoying what I do,” Pierre said.

     In the future, Pierre said she plans on turning her business into a well established brand, and plans to expand on her product line, including catering to different dietary needs by offering gluten-free, vegan or sugar-free options.

     “For her to even want to open her business and become an entrepreneur demonstrates that she is a student with aspirations and goals,” Office administrator Rita Crawford said. “To come up with the designs and ideas she has is unique. She’s a very talented and passionate person that I believe will one day acquire more success on her journey.”