John Graham Perks isn’t afraid of failure. In fact, he wears it like a badge of honor.
A visionary entrepreneur with an unshakable commitment to helping others succeed, Perks’ journey has been defined by both extraordinary achievements and significant setbacks. As the former CEO of one of the largest tourist attractions in the Greater Toronto Area, he led the operation to collaborate with industry giants such as Mattel Toys and Warner Brothers. His leadership saw the attraction winning awards and delighting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. However, like many businesses, the COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a devastating blow. The doors closed, the lights dimmed, and the thriving business was forced into bankruptcy.
“It was devastating,” John admits. “You put your heart and soul into something, and then a global crisis takes it all away. But failure doesn’t define you—what you do after does.”
Before venturing into the world of retail, Perks led an international nonprofit that provided care for thousands of orphans in 27 countries. His work earned him global recognition, and he spoke at conferences, inspiring over a million people with his purpose-driven leadership. But John’s story doesn’t end there. Afterward, he led the charge in experiential retail, launching the first Harry Potter retail stores in Canada—earning the prestigious award for Best Retail Store in North America. He continued his retail innovation with the successful launch of Galactic Gifts, a Star Wars-themed gift shop, and opened seven U.K.-themed grocery stores that featured in-house bakeries.
However, despite his previous successes, the pandemic forced him to pivot yet again.
Showoff Expos: A Movement, Not Just An Event
Today, John is back—stronger, more focused, and more determined than ever. Together with his wife, he launched Showoff Expos, a fast-growing platform that is redefining the way entrepreneurs connect with consumers.
“Showoff Expos is about more than vendor tables and foot traffic,” John says. “It’s about rebuilding local economies, helping real people chase real dreams, and giving them the tools and exposure they need to succeed.”
Showoff Expos is a themed consumer trade show unlike any other. Infused with entertainment, education, and energy, the expos not only showcase vendors but provide valuable startup mentorship, marketing workshops, and branding support. With each event, John is ensuring that these entrepreneurs aren’t just seen—they’re transformed.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Entrepreneurs are lining up to participate, and communities are rallying behind the events, recognizing the potential of a platform that elevates small businesses. Today, Showoff Expos is growing rapidly, and John Graham Perks is at the helm, leading the charge.
A Vision of Empowerment
For John, Showoff Expos represents far more than an event series; it is a vehicle for empowerment. “I don’t believe in comebacks that just return to where you were. I believe in comebacks that take you somewhere you’ve never been,” he states. His message resonates with entrepreneurs who have struggled, faced uncertainty, and yet remain resilient in the pursuit of their dreams.
Showoff Expos has cultivated a strong sense of community, providing entrepreneurs with a stage to showcase their businesses, share their stories, and learn from one another. By pairing high-energy trade shows with hands-on educational resources, John is not only helping small businesses survive but thrive in an ever-competitive market.
John’s leadership is built on his own experiences. He understands the hardships and challenges of being an entrepreneur because he’s lived through them. His dedication to his cause is reflected in every aspect of Showoff Expos, and he remains committed to empowering the next generation of business owners.
Quotes from John Graham Perks:
“I’ve failed. I’ve lost everything. But I’ve also learned that success is never final, and failure is never fatal—it’s just feedback.”
“I used to build attractions for tourists. Now I build platforms for entrepreneurs.”
“The vision for Showoff Expos is simple: to light the fire in local business owners and give them the stage they’ve always deserved.”
“Failure doesn’t define you—what you do after does.”
The Future of Entrepreneurship
As John continues to expand Showoff Expos, his mission is clear: to empower, elevate, and energize a new generation of entrepreneurs. He understands the stakes; his own comeback story is proof that failure can be a stepping stone to even greater success. For John Graham Perks, the journey is not about a return to what was lost but about forging a new path that helps others find their way.
It’s a movement—one that promises to spark change in local economies and provide entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed. The future of Showoff Expos is bright, and with John at the helm, the sky’s the limit.
About John Graham Perks
John Graham Perks is a dynamic entrepreneur, CEO, and internationally recognized speaker. He is the founder of Showoff Expos, a rapidly growing event platform dedicated to empowering small businesses through immersive trade shows, mentorship, and marketing workshops. Perks has a proven track record of building successful organizations, from non-profits to retail innovations. With decades of experience, he is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs overcome challenges and achieve their business goals.
Visit their website and social media at Showoff Expos | Instagram
