The Power To Break Down Barriers to Entrepreneurship

Natalie Suppes is CEO of S&S Creative based in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

By Natalie Suppes

When I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease in 2007, I wasn't sure how that would affect the plans I had for my life. I was about to start university and had big dreams for my career and personal life. 

Little did I know, I wasn't alone. My dream of being a business woman who happens to have a chronic illness is not a singular story. There are many people out there with chronic diseases or disabilities who want to be their own boss, and my passion now lies in empowering them to achieve that.

I finished my university education and spent time in corporate, at which point my passion for entrepreneurship became clear. I left the corporate world, struck out on my own, and started my digital marketing agency, S&S Creative, helping business owners and entrepreneurs elevate their online presence.

Entrepreneurship is an incredible option for those with chronic illness or disability because you can build your work at your pace. It provides flexibility in tasks, hours, and location in a way that many corporate or traditional jobs cannot.

The problem is obstacles are plenty, and resources are scarce. To help mentor and coach people, I started the Sick and Successful podcast, sharing the honest, heartfelt, and realistic experiences I've had about the ups and downs of building a business. My tips and tricks are aimed at the real-life challenges facing entrepreneurs with chronic illnesses, disability, or those going through significant life events. From topics like letting go of employees, monetizing on social media, overcoming fear and doubt, or the importance of a healthy work environment, my insights and lived experience can inspire others. 

Being CEO of a thriving business is complex and challenging. Still, it's possible for anyone who desires it, no matter what life throws at them.

Natalie Suppes is CEO of S & S Creative based in Winnepeg, Manitoba. https://www.facebook.com/groups/sickandsuccessful ; https://www.instagram.com/for.the.success/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliesuppes/ ; https://www.sandscreative.ca/ ; https://www.tiktok.com/@s.and.s.creative