Entrepreneur Allysa takes her stall to national Young Traders Market finals

Market trader Allysa

Allysa Pastrana, aged 22, will compete at the prestigious national finals in Stratford-upon-Avon over the August Bank Holiday weekend, trading with her stall Allysacrafts, which features her handcrafted crocheted plushies and soft toys.

Allysa’s entrepreneurial journey began at Derby Market Hall while undertaking work experience with local community organisation Snap & Chat Connect. After joining their Wednesday photography and wellbeing group, she began volunteering at the shop.

The architecture graduate - who remarkably taught herself to crochet in just one month - impressed Snap & Chat Connect founder Neil Rowley with her drive, creativity, and work ethic. Recognising her talent, Neil encouraged her to launch her own stall and enter the competition, which is organised by the National Market Traders’ Federation (NMTF).

After securing third place in the local Derby heats in May, Allysa advanced to the regional stage in Wolverhampton, where she took top spot in the Arts and Crafts category to secure her place in the national finals.

Allysa, who lives in Derbyshire, said:

I really enjoyed taking part in the heats, which were held at the Market Hall – it was so fun. When I got through to the regionals in Wolverhampton I had to go on my own but I was really determined to go and participate. I wasn’t expecting to win at all.

“I’m a crafty person and I love making everything myself. I’ve done a lot of market research and I’m learning what sells well and what doesn’t. At first, I was nervous about going to the national finals but I’ve been working hard to get everything ready and now I’m looking forward to it.

While actively seeking a job in architecture, Allysa plans to continue expanding her business and will be trading at upcoming Artisans Uncovered and Farmers Markets at Derby Market Hall.

Hana York, Derby Market Hall manager, said:

Allysa’s success is a fantastic example of what we want to do at the Market Hall – support creative local talent and offer flexible opportunities for young entrepreneurs to turn their passions into viable businesses. Seeing her progress from volunteering in the hall to representing us at a national level is incredible. Everyone at the Market Hall is fully behind her, and we can’t wait to cheer her on at the finals.

Neil, from Snap & Chat Connect, said:

Everyone at Snap & Chat Connect is incredibly proud of what Allysa has achieved. She has worked hard every step of the way, and her success is thoroughly deserved.

It would be wonderful if the people of Derby could get behind this talented young lady - not only by supporting her products, but also by recognising the dedication, creativity, and determination that have brought her to this stage. We hope her story inspires other young people to believe in themselves and have the confidence to pursue their own ideas.