Teen inspired by strong women to open pizza place

A Belfast teenager has said she was inspired by the strong women in her life as she launches a new pizza takeaway in the Four Winds area of south Belfast.

Lily Brown has recently opened Colby Street Pizza, on Newtown Park, hoping to bring something new and exciting to the area, while she is still working on her degree in university.

However, the teenager is not new to the hospitality industry, having worked in pizza restaurants since she was just 13.

Lily said that she has always had a passion for making pizzas and aims to have a focus on fresh ingredients with everything on the menu being prepared in store.

She also gave thanks to her friends and family who have supported her in launching Colby Street Pizza, including her partner who also has over six years experience working in and managing pizza restaurants.

Lily said: “For the past five years I have worked in pizza restaurants and takeaways and it has become a very strong passion in my life, so when I had a bit of down time during my criminology course at Ulster University I decided to try and set off on my own and start my own takeaway in the Four Winds.

“The strong women surrounding me growing up inspired me to become a young female entrepreneur. When I was growing up my mother ran a successful business, showing me the value of hard work and determination.

“Additionally, my auntie, a current Irish triathlete competing for her country for 25 years, demonstrated the importance of perseverance and dedication. My uncle, who coached me in sports during my youth, instilled in me the principles of teamwork and resilience.

“Their achievements and support encouraged me to start my own business.

“I am currently running the business with my partner with the support of friends and family, but once we are firmly settled we will be looking at hiring more people and bringing a few more jobs to the area.”