22/12/2023
Approaching the concluding moments of the business year in 2023, it is genuinely invigorating to seize a moment and contemplate the numerous chances to connect with individuals and businesses of all proportions over this year. Every business, regardless of its size, narrates a distinctive tale, functioning as a poignant recall of the diligence and tenacity necessary to operate within the African business expanse. Encountering formidable operational milieus and an assortment of macro and microeconomic obstacles, engaging in business broadly in Sub-Saharan Africa mandates a degree of resilience that is not for the timorous.
This actuality is notably accentuated for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, where the expedition of conceptualizing, instituting, sustaining, and enlarging a business transcends mere commerce—it's profoundly personal. Each interaction highlights the valor it takes to venture into the unknown, to fully endorse oneself, and frequently to contest the status quo, whether challenging gender partiality or confronting skepticism regarding the feasibility of small businesses to thrive.
In the quest for inspiration, an Electrical Engineering alumnus who discerned an opening to vend 10 sets of earrings to fellow scholars for profit. Following a year in electrical engineering, she thought to pursue her passion and commence her own business. Despite not being the easy route, she currently engages eight full-time staff and exports artistic jewelry, handbags, footwear, and home accessories worldwide.
Visiting her establishment, I observed her transition into considerably more spacious premises and discovered her intentions to engage more hands as they produce uniquely, tailored bracelets and beaded shoe blueprints.
Then there's the entrepreneur who takes pride in using the finest, organic ingredients from the environment to craft natural soaps. Her commitment to maintaining a balance between business and the environment is remarkable, with her practices inherently aligned with nature. Equally inspiring is the training program she runs for individuals across demographics—youth, the elderly, men and women, even those deemed "unemployable"—transferring skills so they can establish their micro-businesses, provide for themselves and their families, and, in doing so, preserve their dignity.
Undoubtedly, every business, regardless of its size, has a compelling story to tell. However, for each SME, the narrative is particularly personal, intricately woven into the fabric of their lives. These stories are replete with the drama of highs and lows, boundless energy, unwavering commitment to the dream, perseverance, and the relentless struggle to challenge the norm. To the owners of micro, small, and medium-sized businesses, I see you; I recognize you as the warriors that you are, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity you afford Pan-African Spark and myself to play a small role in your incremental success every day. If I have been part of your success/growth story, I'd be inspired if you could share with me.
