Are you struggling to find employment in Zambia? Do you spend all day searching and applying for jobs without success? Could starting your own business be the answer? Lots of people do – could you?
Entrepreneurs, people who start their own business, are vital to the success of all nations. They are the people who turn ideas into reality. They are the people who can sense an opportunity. They are the people who when they get knocked down get back up and keep trying because they believe in what they are doing.
Do you have the entrepreneurial spirit?
What do the following have in common – Facebook, Microsoft, Subway, Samsung, Coca-Cola, Football, Deloitte’s, KPMG, a hairdressers, a street vendor?
The answer is that they were all started by someone with an idea, some ambition and a willingness to turn an idea into reality. Whether they are now multinational companies such as Microsoft (started by Bill Gates in his parents garage), or Facebook (started by Mark Zuckerberg whilst at university), or a small business, such as your local hairdresser, the thing to remember is that they did not appear out of nothing. Someone, perhaps someone just like you, had an idea, some ambition and a willingness to make it happen.
Example of an entrepreneur
In 2012, Joseph lost his job working for a small manufacturing company. Whilst looking for a job he was asked by a friend if he could help create a website. Joseph had no formal experience but had always been interested IT. Joseph quickly taught himself the basics of web design and produced a simple website. He was then recommended to another friend who also wanted a website. Joseph quickly realised that there was demand for someone who could create websites in Zambia.
“I stated my business by helping my friends and family. This meant that I didn’t get paid much but it was useful as I was able to learn the skills I needed as I went along. The more work I did the more I improved and the more people offered me work.”
What do you need in order to start your own business?
- An idea
- Courage
- Strong work ethic
Ok, there may be other things that you will need but this is what you need to start. The question is – do you have what it takes to start your own business?
Sources of help
Need help getting your business started? Below are links to several organisation who provide help and financial assistance to people starting a business in Zambia.
- African Women Development Fund
- Rent to Own (RTO)
- Entrepreneurs Financial Centre (EFC)
- The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA)
Further Information
To find more careers articles visit: Careers Advice
Search for Jobs
To search for the latest jobs in Zambia visit: www.gozambiajobs.com