Written By Anne Mansew Bukari
I found Ishmael and Maliha’s journeys truly inspiring. Although their businesses are in different fields, their success stories share some common elements that I believe are crucial for any aspiring entrepreneur. These common elements can be summarized as what I like to refer to as the “3 Ps”: passion, persistence, and patience.
I strongly believe that passion births vision and consistency and the two journeys I have been exposed to have proved me right. Ishmael’s passion for showcasing African culture and combining it with his love for food is a prime example. When you discover your passion, use it as a foundation to build something meaningful. No idea born from your passion is too small to develop into something significant. The key is to believe in yourself, your idea, and follow Ishmael’s advice: “test it, refine it, and improve it.”
However, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Like Maliha advised, surround yourself with people who share your vision and are equally enthusiastic about it. A supportive network can make a world of difference on your entrepreneurial journey.
Once you have your passion and vision in place, you must pursue your goals relentlessly yet exercise patience, regardless of the challenges you encounter. Ishmael faced difficulties in sourcing raw materials, while Maliha experienced the shift from a partnership to a sole proprietorship. These challenges are inevitable, but as a determined entrepreneur, you must stay consistent and never give up. Aisha Tyler once said, “Success is not the absence of failure; it’s the persistence through failure.”