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Ben Deagazio, a recent graduate from òòò½ÎÑ’s Business diploma program, has turned his dream into a thriving business called One Wash Okanagan. But Ben’s journey from student to successful business owner wasn’t easy and is a testament to his own determination, combined with the support he received from òòò½ÎÑ.

Ben started with a bold idea and a lot of determination to build up a mobile washing business, despite financial challenges and skepticism from some people close to him, Ben believed in his vision. He started by purchasing a 2009 Chevy pickup truck, a pressure washer, and some basic equipment. Living at the student residence on the Kelowna campus, he focused on building his business.

Knocking on doors every day, Ben slowly building momentum, by taking on labor-intensive jobs. His hard work paid off, and in the first year, under the name Clean & Clear Kelowna, Ben and his team successfully began to grow the business. They were also able to give back to the community, donating $2,500 to the West Kelowna Professional Firefighters Association. They also became the preferred vendor for Service Master Restore.

Entrepreneurship is never without its hurdles. Just before he started production in March while studying for finals of his last year at òòò½ÎÑ, Ben’s trailer was stolen, resulting in a loss of nearly $10,000 worth of equipment. However, he replaced the equipment the very next day and continued operations without delay.

This year, Ben’s hard work and persistence have led to significant growth for One Wash Okanagan. A notable milestone for Ben is securing nearly 40 per cent of the exterior detailing contracts for òòò½ÎÑ’s Kelowna campus, including the student residence building where he once lived.

"It's a pretty cool feeling to have had my bids win that much of the campus. It was one of my biggest goals for the year and a huge accomplishment from where I started," says Ben.

Throughout his journey, Ben acknowledges the immense support from his professors at òòò½ÎÑ. Ben chose òòò½ÎÑ for its renowned business program and the chance to live in the beautiful city of Kelowna. Reflecting on his time at òòò½ÎÑ, Ben says, "The kindness and support from the faculty were the highlights of the business program for me."

For prospective students, Ben's advice is clear.

"If you want to learn from professors with real-world experience and have the chance to learn from them one-on-one, go to òòò½ÎÑ. The professors truly care about your success and want to help you put your best foot forward when you leave òòò½ÎÑ."

Ben Deagazio, Owner of One Wash Okanagan