This presentation was delivered to young tourism professionals and students part of the Young Tourism Network, a Victorian based social networking group aimed to enhance and foster the career development and professional excellence of the people within the Victorian tourism industry. Along with three other entrepreneurial business owners we were asked to share our current business, our career history, challenges we faced, what we love about owning our own business, “must knows” about starting a business in tourism and important lessons we've learned along the way! This event was all about paying forward knowledge and experiences in our careers that transitioned into owning our own business. The intention was ultimately to share what has shaped our journeys so far so that it can inspire the up and coming young tourism professionals to lead with their purpose to conquer any fear and self down and create their own path to excellence.