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Young Entrepreneur Opens Coffee Shop Over University
9 Jun
Summary
- A 21-year-old woman opened her own coffee shop instead of attending university.
- She aims to expand with multiple shops and a mobile coffee van.
- Her mother provides support, assisting with business operations and orders.

A 21-year-old woman has chosen to bypass university in favor of launching her own coffee shop, Dolly's Coffee, in Lowestoft. This decision stands in contrast to the increasing numbers of young people classified as not in education, employment, or training (NEET).
Mia Wallace, the entrepreneur behind Dolly's Coffee, took over a location in November and reopened it last month after renovations. She was inspired to open the shop after working in a local cafe, realizing her passion lay in entrepreneurship.
Wallace raised funds by pitching her idea to family and friends, while also completing online business courses and leveraging knowledge from previous employment. She now enjoys the autonomy of running her own business.
Her mother, Sue Wallace, who assists at the cafe, expressed immense pride in her daughter's accomplishment, highlighting Mia's self-sufficiency in managing all aspects of the business, from sole trader registration to council communications.
Looking ahead, Wallace aims to expand her venture by opening multiple coffee shops and operating a mobile coffee van for events, signifying her ambition for growth.