Emily O’Brien, the CEO of Comeback Snacks, is making waves in Vaughan, Ontario with her gourmet popcorn business. As a former inmate, O’Brien is redefining societal attitudes towards ex-convicts and championing their reintegration into society.
Since her release, she has been on a mission to transform stereotypes. She founded Comeback Snacks not just to create delicious popcorn flavours like Maple Bourbon, Dill Pickle, and Caramel Espresso, but to also provide opportunities for others who’ve previously been incarcerated.
Under O’Brien’s leadership, the company has grown exponentially, with their popcorn being sold across Vaughan and the Greater Toronto Area. More than popcorn, Comeback Snacks hosts workshops and community events aimed at changing public perception of ex-convicts.
O’Brien’s team is largely made up of people who’ve had similar experiences. This provides them a chance to contribute to society and prove they are more than their past. O’Brien believes in the power of second chances and uses her business model to reinforce this belief in a supportive, understanding work environment.
Each member of her staff brings a unique skill set and contributes to the success of her inclusive programme. Emphasising shared experiences and team ethos, Comeback Snacks boosts productivity and morale within its workforce.
Training and development are at the heart of O’Brien’s approach. Not only does she provide employment; she encourages further education or skill building for her staff. O’Brien’s business also promotes societal engagement and local acceptance, breaking down pre-existing stigmas towards ex-convicts.
Environmental issues are equally important in O’Brien’s mission. While a train disaster in East Pennsylvania polluted the Lehigh River, O’Brien’s call to incorporate green strategies in business took on a new significance. The tragedy underscored the need for corporate responsibility towards the environment while highlighting the urgency of sustainable practices in all industries.
At the core of O’Brien’s operations are two principles: changing attitudes towards hiring ex-convicts and prioritising sustainability. Her commitment to hiring former inmates challenges stereotypes and underscores their potential. Her company’s commitment to reduction initiatives and energy efficiency highlights its devotion to environmental conservation.
Emily O’Brien is showing the world what is possible when businesses focus on both social development and environmental health. Corporations can be both profitable and responsible, demonstrating that it is possible to create a balance between their objectives and societal needs.
By giving ex-convicts a second chance through employment and following sustainable practices, O’Brien’s Comeback Snacks is making a positive contribution, one popcorn bag at a time. From the procurement of eco-friendly source materials to production and packaging, each step is thoughtfully planned to minimize carbon footprint.
O’Brien’s journey is a testament to resilience, positivity, and the transformative power of second chances. With every popcorn bag sold, she is overturning stereotypes and promoting environmental sustainability, embodying the true spirit of a comeback.
