A young, self-taught baker from Adelaide’s north is turning early setbacks into a rising small-business success story, using determination, community support, and a love of sweets.
Twenty-year-old Peter Griffiths, founder of Pete’s Tasty Treats, created his micro-bakery from the kitchen of his Virginia home after repeated job rejections.
Rather than stepping away from the workforce, he decided to transform his passion for baking into a prosperous business that now produces dozens of orders each week.
‘I like baking because it’s my favourite thing to do,’ says Mr. Griffith.
Every item is baked by hand in the home he shares with his long-term foster carer, who, along with a network of mentors and supporters, have helped him refine his craft and learn the foundations of running a small business.
These local success stories demonstrate why organisations like KompleteCare are so important.
With guidance from our team, we help young people with disability build the confidence needed to pursue their goals.
Pete’s ambitions stretch far beyond his residential kitchen, as he hopes to one day operate a food truck, establish a commercial kitchen, and eventually open a café employing other people with disability.
These plans gained some momentum following a $2,000 grant through the Dame Roma Mitchell Trust, which helped him purchase a portable fridge and other essential equipment to support the next stage of his expansion.
The Trust, which supports South Australians under 30 pursue their goals, has become a major resource for those transitioning from the child protection system.
Since the Department of Child Protection assumed responsibility for the fund in 2018, more than $1 million in grants have been approved.
‘[These] grants are an outstanding way for young people transitioning out of care to establish themselves in the community,’ says Minister for Child Protection, Katrine Hildyard.
[They] go a long way in helping provide security, comfort, and an opportunity to pursue avenues.’
For Peter, the grant represents more than financial assistance; it reflects a community investing in his potential.
‘I keep very busy—I’m cooking every day,’ says Mr. Griffith.
I’m grateful and thankful [to the Trust]. It’s very helpful.’
As Pete’s Tasty Treats continues to grow, the young business-owner remains focused on his future.
Though still in its early stages, Pete’s Tasty Treats has become a shining example of what an inclusive small business can look like: one that is driven by heart and built on the belief that disability should never limit opportunity.
His home-based venture has become a testament of resilience and demonstrates what is possible when people are given the support to pursue their ambitions.
His journey also reflects the kind of community spirit many local providers, like KompleteCare, aim to promote.
It is also a shining example of how encouragement and determination can help individuals pursue their goals.
