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Congratulations are in order for 13-year-old Maile McManis, the owner of Sewing with Smiles LLC and winner of the 2020 Spotlight on YouthBiz Stars business competition in the 12-15 age category.
Sewing with Smiles began in 2018 when Maile discovered her mother’s old sewing machine, gifted by her grandmother. Since Maile’s mom had never picked up sewing, the machine sat unused until Maile mobilized both the machine and her newfound business inspiration.
In the two years since her discovery, Maile’s sewing skills have grown exponentially, along with her burgeoning business. Maile now has two product lines: fashion, including cosmetic bags and purses, and an eco-friendly line, including reusable produce bags. Judges loved Maile’s dedication to improving her business, and especially her timely response to COVID-19 by sewing and donating masks for essential workers.
Over the next year, Maile plans to explore new product offerings and sales opportunities with the help of her mentors, Bob and Judi Newman. Maile has, “learned so much from them already!”
