At Thomas Mills High School, a new hoodie business has emerged formed by students, with a key focus.

 

The group has joined a scheme called ‘Young Enterprise’ in order to bolster its own understanding of the business world.

 

“It’s definitely exciting what we’ve got planned,” said Managing Director, Edward Smyth. 

 

The business, OurMind, has created its own hoodies with important messages. The initial launch is coming soon with a countdown on shopourmind.com. However, there’s still more.

 

“Mental health is something that, from our market research, we found out that many people believe is a matter that needs to be discussed further,” said Smyth. 

 

With an uplifting, positive approach, the key focus of their ‘OurMind’ brand is mental health. The aim is to create a wider conversation, particularly through young people, about mental health. 

 

The focus on mental health of late has been (partly) a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on young people and adults. 

 

“Our fusion of high-quality clothing with mental health messages should help to bring it to light in every day life,” said Smyth, stating that the aim of the business is to normalise discussions surrounding mental health issues through something universal to everyone - clothes.

 

In terms of the competitive market of hoodies, Smyth seems refreshingly confident.

 

“You’ve got to be ambitious in the world of business,” he said. “It drives the business and it means that we’re going to be successful.”

 

The young entrepreneurs already have plans that extend beyond the school itself.

 

“The plan is to start off in school, getting teachers and students to buy our products. Then in the future we’d definitely like to go global.”