Nicola O’Connell didn’t set out to start a business. She set out to create an opportunity for her son.
The Hot Dog Express is a microbusiness in Palmerston North, owned by Nicola’s son Joshua. The idea came from a simple moment. After leaving school, Joshua was looking for more out of life, but like many people with disabilities, opportunities were limited.
“Joshua has always loved American hotdogs. At an event one day, he saw a man in a wheelchair selling them, and it resonated immediately. He identified with him and told us he wanted to do that too,” says Nicola.
From that point on, the focus became making it happen.
Building something from scratch
Starting a business came with its challenges. Nicola had no background in business and was balancing family life and work, while navigating the financial and practical realities of getting started.
“My role is to make things happen for him,” she says. “I do the paperwork, arrange staff and make sure he has everything he needs to be successful. Joshua is the boss, he tells me what he needs and I find a way to make that happen.”
Wanting guidance, they connected with Business Mentors New Zealand (BMNZ) through CEDA early in the process.
“I really had no idea what I was doing. I think I got in my head a bit and could have stayed stuck for a long time without that encouragement.”
A practical and supportive approach
Through mentoring, Nicola and Joshua had regular check-ins and a clear point of accountability. Each session provided practical next steps and helped keep momentum going.
“We talked about everything, legal responsibilities, accounting, food control plans, advertising. Our mentor was always a few steps ahead and helped us to understand what was coming next.”
More than anything, the experience built confidence.
“The biggest takeaway was the confidence to get in and give it a go, and then to keep going. I knew we had someone we could go to with any questions.”
Getting to the start line
With the support of mentoring, Nicola and Joshua were able to launch The Hot Dog Express in May 2025. While there were early challenges, they stayed focused on building something that works for Joshua and his goals.
Today, the business operates weekly from a regular spot in Palmerston North, serving hotdogs to a growing base of local supporters.
“We are finally doing what we set out to do. Joshua is becoming more confident in his role and learning all the different parts of the operation.”
Beyond the business itself, the impact has been wider.
“Joshua is becoming known in his community as the awesome young man he is. He has more to contribute, and this business is the way we plan to do that.”
Looking ahead
The long-term goal is to continue growing at a pace that suits Joshua. This could include expanding into a food trailer to provide more stability and flexibility.
For Nicola, the vision goes beyond one business.
“I would love to see communities come together and support people with disabilities in their various and diverse interests. Micro-businesses are a great way to connect people and build strong local networks.”
Advice to others
Nicola’s advice to others considering mentoring is simple: don’t try to do it alone.
Having someone to guide, challenge, and support you can make the difference between staying stuck and taking action.
Interested in mentoring for your business?
CEDA connects local business owners with Business Mentors New Zealand. Learn more at businessmentors.org.nz or contact our team here.
You can find the Hot Dog Express on Tuesdays 11-2pm at 78 Lombard St, weather permitting.
