Alex Mitchell, winner of the Young Entrepreneurship Award

Announced as the winner of the Young Entrepreneurship Award, the criteria included the nature, scope and complexity of the entrepreneurial activities, resulting success and benefits to the Lake Macquarie community.

Alex was recognised for his success in creating two successful businesses during the last three years – Nulex Constructions and Backyard Grannys – with his business partner Mark Neumann.

Nulex Constructions is a residential and commercial building company, with a focus on developing positive client relationships and high quality workmanship.

Backyard Grannys is a separate business with a focus on premium custom designed granny flats.

Both businesses are thriving, due in no small part to Alex.

Alex is 34-years-old and a true Novocastrian and Lake Macquarie local having grown up in Valentine. He is motivated to succeed to inspire his family and to develop a balance between work and life.

Alex said he was thrilled and humbled to be recognised in this way.

“Starting two businesses has certainly been a roller-coaster ride over the last few years and it’s wonderful to have your hard work recognised not only through the success of your business, but also through awards like this,” Alex said.

“I was delighted to find out I was a finalist and then to win was just fantastic.”

Alex says some of the secrets to his entrepreneurial success include remembering what’s most important to you (in his case, family), using a coach or mentor, and learning from the success (or failure) of others.

“I don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I work hard each day to create a business and a career that makes my family proud of me.”