But this week the Grimsby resident enjoyed a veritable tidal wave of success as she found herself winning one of the top spots in the 2008 Youth Entrepreneur Awards sponsored by the Grand Erie Business Centre.

The third-place win surprised Katie, who, at 17, was the youngest of those in the running, and was younger by more than a decade to the first and second places winners.

"I looked over the others and they all had larger start-up capital and were older so I figured they would be chosen," she said.

Katie's experience as an entrepreneur began after she qualified as a certified lifeguard and swimming instructor. While considering her employment options she came across information on a website that led her to a business program offered through the Ontario Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

"Instead of working as a lifeguard, I realized I could go into business for myself," said Katie.

Through the Summer Company Program, Katie developed a business plan, worked out a budget and was provided a $1,500 business start-up grant.

The premise behind Poseidon Swimming - now up and running for its second year - was to provide swimming lessons to children in their own pools. Travelling from home to home, mostly by bicycle, Katie was able to build up a large customer base that included several daycare and child care operations.

The responsibilities of being a business owner came as a surprise for the then-16-year-old.

"It was a big shock," she explained, adding when she wasn't working she was balancing her budget and working on lessons plans.

The Summer Company Program provided support by way of on-the-job training, helping with such things as writing her business plan, finding someone to insure her, determining what kind of customers to look for and advice on advertising.

Katie was even chosen to be featured in the Summer Company's 2007 Yearbook.

The $300 prize Katie picked up for her business award win will be saved for her education. The Smithville District Christian High School student (she just completed Grade 11) plans to become a doctor and will one day open her own clinic.