HILO (KHON2) — Running a business demands dedication and hard work, but for one pre-teen on the Big Island, it’s about realizing big dreams and nurturing an even bigger heart.

Meet Sadie Yu, an 11-year-old dynamo who juggles her roles as a cheerleader at Kamehameha Schools Hawai’i and a caring big sister with a twist—she’s also the proud owner of Sweetheart Farm.

From the outside, Sweetheart Farm might appear like any other family operation, but the story behind it is rooted in determination and love.

Sadie and her supportive family run the farm, producing and selling farm-fresh products like eggs, lilikoi butter and pepper jellies.

“My parents help me find time to do stuff like my schoolwork. They help me watch my little brother so I can do it,” said Sadie.

What drives an 11-year-old to dive into such a demanding venture? For Sadie, it’s deeply personal. Her younger brother, Ka’Ohe, was diagnosed with a rare genetic mutation, SCN1A, triggering severe seizures.

Determined to help her family, Sadie embarked on a mission.

“It was her idea to start this business to help out without us even asking. And that just speaks volumes to her personality and her caring nature,” said her father, Gary Yu.

Her backyard became her sanctuary, where Sadie experimented with family recipes, channeling her efforts into Sweetheart Farm.

“Medical bills are expensive, so I wanted to help them out. Cuz I know they’re like really expensive,” Sadie explained.

Her dedication earned her recognition as the Keiki Entrepreneur of the Year, an award from Keiki Rise, a program created by fellow Whiz Kid Coen Cadinha of Big Boy Sweets.

Sadie’s ambitions soar high. She dreams of seeing her lilikoi butter on Hawaiian Airlines’ snack carts.

“Please answer my calls!” said Sadie.