Growing up Peter Yang always liked food, but like most people he didn’t follow his passion; he went to college. At 22 years old, Peter Yang graduated from UC San Diego with a degree in structural engineering. Shortly after, he started working as a structural engineer and hated it, so he decided to try something new. He and his father started Pokeworks, in 2015.
Pokeworks focuses on bringing people healthy flavorful food in a sustainable way. They do this through making Poke bowls and burritos. Poke bowls and burritos are like the Hawaiian version of Chipotle; they are filled with rice, fresh fish that is only lightly seasoned and cooked, an array of fresh and interesting herbs and vegetables, and a great mix of sauces. They bring these ingredients in fresh and sustainable ways. However, they also work to make sure the planet is being protected. Their Forest Stewardship Council takes care of the world’s forests by creating re-claimed wood products and protecting forest from deforestation.
This business model of focusing on flavor, health, and sustainability is working. Since 2015, they have opened over 30 locations from New York City to Houston. According to Yang, their business has exploded because they give people a healthy option that does taste great and does not cost a fortune. He also believes that their commitment to sustainability is another reason his business is doing so well. Many Millennials would rather spend their money somewhere that is sustainable and helping the environment instead of somewhere that is polluting. Peter Yang is an impressive young entrepreneur because he mixed his passions of food, health, and sustainability into a growing business that is turning a large profit. Lastly, he was a member of the Forbes 30 under 30 in 2017. The video below is a snippet of his interview which talks about him as well as his company and its growth.
Peter Yang’s story is one that is very encouraging especially for people that have been discouraged from pursuing their more creative desires over fear of monetary failure. Often students are pushed to STEM careers because of their applicability and that has many benefits but many of those students, like Yang, detest what they end up pursuing. This story shows the importance of pursuing those passions. I also like that he did it with his father which is very unique and fun! Finding good business partners or advisers is very important.