Young Barren County business owners thrive
BARREN COUNTY, Ky. – In Barren County, many businesses are not only thriving — they’re being led by determined teenagers ready to serve their community.
Among them is 17-year-old Ejaz Ali, who started his mobile car detailing business with just $20 in supplies in the trunk of his car.
“It was tough,” Ejaz recalls, juggling high school and a fast-food job while chasing his dream.
Despite early challenges, Ali Car Cleaning is now a recognizable name in the area. He’s not alone — just down the road, another young business owner is growing something special.
Bodie Janes, who launched his produce stand during the early days of the pandemic, has expanded far beyond fruits and vegetables.
“We’ve done canned goods, we’ve got brand knives, we’ve got all kinds of stuff like that,” says Bodie. More than the products, he values the people he serves, building relationships with customers from places like Bowling Green and Edmonton.
“It’s awesome,” he adds, highlighting how community connections fuel his success.
Both Ejaz and Bodie say their businesses wouldn’t have flourished without the unwavering support of locals.
“People giving me a chance and letting me know I can do it — it means a lot,” says Ejaz. Their journeys are inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs in Barren County.
We’ll be spotlighting more young business owners soon — if you know a recent graduate building something great, email us at news@wnky.com.
