Tony Nguyen is the owner of Gong Cha Danforth. From being an international student, to working in service industry, and then on to becoming a business owner – startGBC has the pleasure of sharing Tony’s journey with you for May 2022 spotlight!
About Tony Nguyen
Meet Tony Nguyen – Certified Boba Boy
I was an international student from Hanoi, Vietnam. I came to Canada in 2012 and I’ve been a part of the services industry for the last 6 years. I worked part-time during school in different food & beverages establishments. But not until I started my job at Starbucks that I really grew to fall in love with the hospitality industry.
I then decided to go back to school and got the Hospitality – Hotel Operations Management Diploma at George Brown College. By the time I graduated, the pandemic began and the hospitality industry was taking a big hit. It was a tough period to look for a job. But I found the opportunity to open Gong Cha – a bubble tea store! So I partnered up and took the chance. We have officially been operating since October, 2021. Going forward with Gong Cha Danforth, I want it to grow stronger, and eventually expand to other locations. At the same time, I will keep on developing myself in the hospitality industry, exploring different products/services, and hopefully to open other businesses in the future.
Academic Background
Tony has certifications in Hospitality – Hotel Operations Management and also Certified Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA).
What made you want to become an entrepreneur?
Both my parents were entrepreneurs, I grew up in their business environment. I always knew that I would eventually have my own business.
Why did you create your business?
I love bubble tea, so why not share it with others? 🙂
What successes have you enjoyed so far with building your company?
We brought bubble tea to Danforth – Greek Town Toronto. We are grateful to be welcomed by the neighborhood, to be able to create personal connections with our guests, and to receive such positive responses from the local residents. Gong Cha Danforth is now an integral part of the neighborhood.
What is one piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
“The same advice I got! Never stop learning and join communities (like startGBC) to help you develop.” – Tony Nguyen
Website & Socials
Website: gong-cha.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thedanforthcha/