Three words that describe me would be – Spiritual, Passionate and Humble.
My mission when I started my business – When I started my first job, I loved every second of it but something was lacking. I have always seen myself as a free spirit and wanted to work on my own terms and on my own clock; so when I started my own business my mission was to work, put my head down and build something without looking back, while making sure that it was something that I love.
The greatest entrepreneurial achievement to be proud of – There are so many achievements that I am proud of, but one of the most challenging would be my work in the import and export division. Getting into Africa, the Aesthetic Clinics and owning and running my own restaurants have been close seconds. The sacrifices I’ve made to become a successful entrepreneur – I have missed many a social occasion and often it felt like all I did was work. There were nights when I was so tired from juggling three jobs that I almost gave up, but I pushed myself through it, and now I have no regrets.
I attribute my success to – the blessings of my son, my parents, and their sacrifices and my Maker who I am totally committed to. The entrepreneurial tricks that I have discovered to keep me focused and productive in my day-to-day busy schedule – Knowing when to delegate is very important. Fostering and nurturing a good team is also very important. Being a “helicopter” is not helpful to anyone, especially yourself. Trusting in your team and yourself is half the battle. Nothing gets accomplished when you get angry, when you hit a roadblock, calm down, access the situation, learn and adapt.
My hidden inspiration sources would be – My family, friends and life in general – staying in the company of positive people; letting go of anything or anyone that made me feel inadequate. How do I generate new ideas? I never stop looking for the next best thing; a niche in the market place, research and trials are always key.
I ensure my daily growth as an entrepreneur – By always researching, reading and staying on top of current trends. I am always watching the market, to see what is new, what is better, safer or just plain amazing.
“Never forget yourself, where you have come from and all those who have helped you to get there.”
For my company to stand out in the crowd – I always make sure that we carry out our services the correct way. Training is imperative and that is something our company never neglects to do on a continuous basis. Customer service is vital; regardless if the feedback is good or bad. The company’s approach has to be consistent. Receive the feedback, unpack it and learn from it.
Where do I see my business in five years – I see the company spinning-off at least six more subsidiary start-ups. My staff and I are growing from strength to strength. We want to also develop a few more Social Responsibility endeavours.
On hunting talents and building effective working teams to achieve excellent results – I love people who are passionate. I absolutely cannot endure, grumpy and negative thinkers. I shy away from anyone who gossips or talks too much; it is not the way to my heart. The team that I now have, knows my expectations, and they think like I do or sometimes better. They are the backbone of who I am. If you had one piece of advice for someone just starting out, what would it be?
My advice to someone who is just starting out – Never give up, think the idea through, do your homework, talk to people who can offer you sound advice and who have your best interests at heart. If I had a magic stick, the three things that I’d change would be:
– Every man, woman and child will have a decent living space and food on their table. – Protect all species so that the generations of souls to come can appreciate all the beauty in this world.
– Create a peaceful, content, gun free, war free society, where you are not judged by your religion, cast or creed.
What entrepreneurship means to me – I can honestly say that I have never gone into any business purely to make money. If that is the sole motive, then I believe that you are better off not doing it. A business must evolve, be fun, and it must exercise your creative instincts.
My secret to becoming a successful entrepreneur is – Never forget yourself, where you have come from and all those who have helped you to get there. Never let ego find a place in your heart and soul, and respect all people who cross your path. They have all been sent to teach you many a lesson.
