Brian Mikula, Brian Fraser Recent Graduate Award

Founder, Life Booster Tea and Marketing Strategist, KarmaDharma
Business – Marketing, Class of 2020

Brian Mikula’s path to becoming a celebrated entrepreneur and marketing expert is a powerful example of resilience and determination. From a challenging youth filled with missteps, Mikula transformed his life through self-discovery and a commitment to constant improvement. His journey from early struggles to being a successful business owner and advocate for self-growth is as remarkable as it is inspiring.

Born and raised in Ottawa, Mikula’s early years were marked by frequent trouble. “I wasn’t the greatest kid growing up,” he admits. At 18, he enrolled in Algonquin College’s automotive program but dropped out after a few months. This turning point led him to a period of soul-searching, during which he devoured self-help books and worked on improving himself.

Returning to Algonquin College in 2015, Mikula pursued the Business Management and Entrepreneurship program, which set the stage for his future successes. “I always knew I wanted to start a business,” he says. The program’s comprehensive curriculum provided him with a solid foundation in business operations, finance, and high-level marketing.

One of his early ventures was a landscaping company, but a spontaneous decision to travel to Australia with a friend altered his path. This adventure broadened his horizons and helped him gain clarity on his life’s goals. Returning to Ottawa, he enrolled in the Business Marketing program at Algonquin College, a decision that would profoundly impact his career.

“The Business Marketing program tied everything together for me,” Mikula explains. Under the mentorship of professors like Jim Neubauer and Bill Garbarino, he honed his skills and competed in prestigious marketing competitions, graduating with the highest GPA in his program.

Mikula’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to launch Life Booster Tea, a company dedicated to improving lives through natural health products. The tea blends, designed to relieve stress, improve sleep and enhance well-being, quickly gained popularity. “Hearing from customers about how our tea helped them with anxiety or sleep issues is the most rewarding part,” he shares.

His marketing expertise played a crucial role in the company’s growth. “The name of the tea itself conveys the benefit, so customers know exactly what they’re getting,” he notes. This straightforward yet effective strategy helped Life Booster Tea gain traction with minimal marketing expenditure.

Mikula’s journey highlights the transformative power of education and mentorship. Reflecting on his time at Algonquin College, he credits the programs and instructors with equipping him with the skills and confidence needed to succeed. “My time studying at Algonquin College taught me how to manage relationships, handle challenges, and communicate effectively,” he says.

Currently, Mikula balances his role at a marketing agency with his entrepreneurial ventures. His vision for the future includes expanding Life Booster Tea into a national brand and using its success to fuel his ultimate dream of becoming a public speaker. “I want to help people reach their greatest potential,” he affirms.

Mikula’s story exemplifies the importance of resilience, self-belief, and the willingness to embrace opportunities. For his significant contributions and achievements, Brian Mikula is being awarded the Brian Fraser Recent Graduate Award. His journey from early challenges to a successful entrepreneur and mentor is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and support, greatness is achievable.