Lilly
High School
Four years ago, Lilly had no idea how to bake. Today, the Michigan Connections Academy student is the owner of a successful baking business.
Lilly’s dad taught her the basics of baking during the COVID-19 pandemic. She loved what she learned, continued developing her baking skills, and took her first shot at selling sweets at a school bake sale. After making $400 in just two days, she was inspired to begin selling treats to neighbors, friends, and family.
Lilly continued working hard to become a skilled baker and eventually started her own business, Lilly Jane’s Treats & Eats. Today, the online business ships delicious homemade treats across the country — including layered cakes, cupcakes, cookies, crumble bars, and cheesecake cones.
According to Lilly, Michigan Connections Academy’s flexible approach to learning is a huge benefit since it allows her to balance her work with her schooling. Reports Lilly, “I work throughout the day and have two different computers. I have my business computer and my school computer, and I’m usually just flipping [between the two] all day.”
What’s next for the young entrepreneur? Lilly wants to open a storefront for her bakery and provide jobs to other people who have a passion for baking. She also wants to start a foundation, with the proceeds from her business going toward helping women who have been sexually assaulted.
“When you have a job you like doing, it’s way easier. It’s like a hobby.”
— Lilly