A Peterborough University Student/Aspiring Entrepreneur Stands Out With Epic Plaid Suit & Beard

A Trent University student and aspiring entrepreneur named Matthew Thompson is standing out at events not only because of his engaging personality but because of his epic plaid suit and beard.

We have noticed Thompson's eye popping suit at many networking events around town such as at Innovation Cluster "Fast Start" events and more—the dude is everywhere—and asked him why he chooses to wear the suit (and grizzly beard), and what competitive advantages he feels it gives him.

Matthew Thompson's suit definitely pops

"Today's business world is saturated with new graduates with the same skills and same mindset," Thompson tells PTBOCanada. "These individuals believe that if they keep their heads down, work hard, and get good grades that they will be guaranteed a good job in the world. Unfortunately this is not true anymore."

Thompson, who is the President of the Trent Youth Entrepreneurship Society, tells PTBOCanada he first purchased the plaid suit in late November of last year, and that it has become an excellent initial talking point at events that leads to deeper more meaningful conversation around business, entrepreneurs and learning.

Thompson (at right) pictured with his buddy Christian Schortemeyer, who wore his own excellent suit at Christmas time

Thompson, and his suit, have become fixtures at events around town. So, too, has his beard.

"I have also created an icon that accompanies the suit—my beard, which I have been growing for almost 7 months now," he tells PTBOCanada. "It has become quite the conversation piece at networking events. I take quite good care of my beard through a daily routine—shampoo, conditioner, coconut oil and Walton Wood Farms beard balm are all vital parts of this daily routine."

Fundamentally, Thompson believes he is building his own brand in an important way as he learns to navigate the world of business and networking. He realizes that innovation, ingenuity, originality and brand building comes not just through good grades but flair and real-world networking as well.

"I believe as an entrepreneur you do not only sell a product or service, but you are promoting yourself," he says.

True that.

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StartUp Peterborough Hosting Speed Networking Event For Entrepreneurs At Fleming College

Startup Peterborough—a place for budding and seasoned entrepreneurs alike to gather and learn from each other—is hosting a Startup Drinks speed networking event at Fleming College's Steele Centre on Wednesday, September 30th.

Startup Drinks is a casual gathering that fosters grassroots relationship building where startup founders, partners and enthusiasts come together to exchange ideas, share knowledge, discuss challenges and learn from one another.

Special guests at this first Startup Drinks event include:

    • Christina Abbott | Strutt Central
    • Mike Watt | Flavour, Plush & S.O.S
    • Jarrod Goldin | Next Millennium Farms
    • Leslie Bradford-Scott | Walton Wood Farm
    • Gerry Vandersanden | Sciens Industries
    • Scott Wood | Ashburnham Ale House
    • Shannon McNevan |Republic Live
    • Gwyneth James | Cody & James
    • Bob Gauvreau | Gauvreau & Associates

Admission is free to this event. It takes place at The Steele Centre (599 Brealey Drive) Wednesday, September 30th from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information or to register, go here. Boom.

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