In the year 1907, high school students harbored dreams of attaining business success akin to becoming Spartans in battle. Yet, for decades, these aspirations remained unfulfilled, existing merely as unattainable fantasies. Fast forward to 2024, and the narrative took a turn as two young students, Mia Reyes and Fabiana Bayas, dared to chase their dreams with unwavering determination.
Mia Reyes, a 2024 graduate, has made a remarkable mark in the gothic scene with her business, Wickeddolleyez, launched in October 2023. At just 18 years old, Mia has already sold over $800 worth of her handcrafted jewelry, which includes beautifully unique bracelets, scrunchies, and earrings. Her journey began not just as a business venture, but as a heartfelt expression of her passion for the gothic subculture and a deep desire to forge her own path.
Mia’s entrepreneurial journey has been anything but easy. When reflecting on her experiences, she candidly shares the challenges she has faced, emphasizing the importance of “time, ambition, dedication, and networking.” Each piece she creates is not just jewelry; it’s a piece of her soul, meticulously crafted to resonate with others who share her love for the gothic aesthetic. This dedication shines through in every sale, reminding her customers that they are part of something larger—a community that embraces individuality and self-expression.
Currently studying Business Administration at Elmhurst University, Mia embodies resilience and determination. Her story is one of perseverance and courage, inspiring her peers to chase their dreams despite the odds. As a proud Spartan, Mia continues to push boundaries, reminding us all that with hard work and passion, success is not just a destination but a beautiful journey filled with growth and self-discovery. Through her art, she not only sells jewelry but also shares her heart, inviting others to embrace their unique identities.
Fabiana Bayas, a 2025 graduate, embarks on her entrepreneurial journey with the inception of The Matcha Shoppe in 2024. A fervent matcha enthusiast, Bayas noticed a decline in quality from her regular sources, prompting her to take matters into her own hands. What started as a personal morning ritual blossomed into a thriving business venture as Bayas shared her matcha creations with friends and classmates, garnering rave reviews.
From humble beginnings with four loyal customers to capturing half of her Senior class with over 70 sales, Bayas’s perseverance and quality offerings have transformed The Matcha Shoppe into a beloved local establishment that transcends mere tea sales. Today, Bayas’s business stands as a testament to the power of youthful ambition and entrepreneurial spirit. When asked if business was what she hoped to major in Bayas answered, “no”. Bayas has always been astonished by the wonders of Psychology and hopes to study to become a Psychologist at Loyola University. Fabiana Bayas is a business woman with a passion for the sciences.
Our Spartans are accomplishing what past generations have hoped to lay their eyes on. These accomplishments make OLCHS proud, as a home for these creative minds.
