From Convict to CEO: Emily O'Brien's ComeBack Snacks Empowers Former Inmates

After serving time for a drug-related conviction, Emily O'Brien launched ComeBack Snacks Popcorn, a company aimed at employing individuals with criminal records, in a bid to combat the stigma they face in the job market. While incarcerated, O'Brien was inspired by the challenges fellow inmates shared about re-entering the workforce. Determined to make a difference, she started her business in 2020, now boasting five ex-inmate employees and distribution across 650 outlets in Canada and the U.S.

The Journey from Inmate to Innovator

O'Brien's entrepreneurial journey began in the confines of an Ontario prison. Witnessing firsthand the obstacles that individuals with criminal backgrounds encounter when seeking employment, she envisioned creating a venture that would offer them a fresh start. Choosing popcorn as her business model, not only for its popularity among inmates but also for the simplicity of the operation, O'Brien launched ComeBack Snacks with a catchy tagline, "Popcorn So Good, It's Criminal." Her initiative not only aims at business success but also at changing societal perceptions towards former inmates.

Challenging the Stigma

The stigma surrounding former inmates is a significant barrier to their reintegration into society. According to a report co-authored by Safiyah Husein of the John Howard Society of Ontario, a shocking 73% of surveyed hiring managers admitted to never having employed someone with a criminal record. This bias contributes to a cycle of unemployment and recidivism among ex-inmates. O'Brien's ComeBack Snacks serves as a beacon of hope, proving that individuals deserve a second chance and can contribute positively to society and the economy.

Impact and Expansion

Since its inception, ComeBack Snacks has not only provided employment opportunities for former inmates but has also raised awareness about the importance of second chances. O'Brien's efforts echo beyond the borders of Canada, inspiring a global conversation about inclusivity and rehabilitation in the workforce. With an unemployment rate of 5.7% in Canada, integrating ex-inmates into the job market could significantly alleviate the country's labor shortage, according to Darren Perlman, CEO of Spotwork. O'Brien's vision extends to encouraging employers worldwide to reconsider their hiring practices and recognize the untapped potential within this marginalized group.

O'Brien's story is a testament to the transformative power of second chances and the positive ripple effect they can create within communities. By challenging stereotypes and offering tangible solutions, ComeBack Snacks is not just selling popcorn; it's fostering a movement towards a more inclusive and understanding society.