A BUDDING businessman and University of Hertfordshire undergraduate has been named one of the country’s top 100 entrepreneurs of the future.

Ondre Johnson, a 21-year-old law student, has been included among the Future 100 Young Entrepreneurs of the Year – a scheme which acknowledges the achievements of young businessmen and women aged between 18 and 35, who run fair and ethical companies.

Ondre was selected for his work as the founder and director of Influence Designs, a bespoke jewellery company which raises funds for cancer awareness and supports underprivileged youths.

The business was inspired by Ondre’s own struggles, after he lost his mother to bowel cancer when he was just 10 years old.

“After losing my mother, I struggled to find inspiration and a positive influence in my life,” said Ondre.

“Later in life through the help of a youth group, which I still attend, I was able to grow in confidence and character and overcome my past.

“While participating in an event at the youth group I noticed two different types of jewellery that interested me.

“I came up with my own idea inspired by those and through that I decided that I would use my creative ability and the professionals around me to create a company that would exploit my talents and creativity.”

Ondre, from Leyton, East London, has now released his first collection of unisex jewellery, called I.D.Chains.

The chains are custom-made using glass beads in various colours and engraved with writing as chosen by the customer.

“A major objective of the company is to raise funds for cancer awareness as well as to provide opportunities for young people who haven’t had the best start to life,” said Ondre.

“Above all, my desire is that my story will provide hope and inspiration to others who may be faced with the same challenges I have had to go through.”