The rise of Young African entrepreneurs

Most of the young people I have met lately, are speaking of starting their own business or organization straight from college. I'm thrilled at the progress our continent is making in encouraging entrepreneurship in all its forms. For the past few years youth unemployment has grown drastically and it has been really hard to survive in these trying times. Most young people have resorted into opening their own charities and businesses.

 I'm a big supporter of new business ideas in action and I applaud those who are taking a step towards creating their own employment and for others. It's a new generation of ideas and startups. Most of our parents are in shock at the progress we have made. In most ways they are proud of this boom of new businesses. But wait a minute, are we missing something here? As much as there are a lot of new babies, how many are really strong enough to survive beyond the five year mark?

Yes financial resources are essential for sustainability but the greatest strength of every organization lies in the strength and quality of its workforce. Everyone seems to have this desire to have their own business, something that has their name on the front door. That is a great dream to have. However, not many people have the kind of financial muscle required to realize that dream. Unfortunately, few young people actually consider creating a business partnership and adding value to the long term significance of their company.

For instance, there are more than 15 young upcoming music producers in a township in Blantyre. Each one has enough money to record in their bedroom, if three people combined resources they would open a studio at the trading center and if seven combined resources, we would find them in their own studio in Limbe (a business center in Malawi) with more customers. I tell you what; most young people hate the idea of having someone to be accountable to. See, most of our young people have abandoned the basics of learning from the gurus in the business.

There are a few ways of achieving that, to be precise getting you a mentor, reading and getting a job. Yes I said it, get a job!! Look it doesn't have to be full time. You can volunteer or work as an intern. Most companies will be happy to take you on board in that capacity. I know you hate working for someone but guess what it's one of the most classic and best ways to learn. Don't be ashamed to have a boss, someone you are accountable to, it is key to your big dream. Don't be too greedy to avoid working with others with a similar dream. If you don't have enough money to start, try getting a business partner, choose wisely and make it legally bound. The combination of your unique capabilities and your partner's is good for business. Even married couples agree to this.

Startups are risky in themselves. Most of us are still scared to start. However, if you ever want to make it worthwhile, make it a point to learn from the best in the business. Life is a process. If you jump a step, you might have to pay dearly for it or even worse still go back to it later. Don't rush, take one step at a time and learn as much as you can.

Please write your experiences, we need to create reading material for the next generation of African entrepreneurs.
Young African entrepreneurs are the future of African economy, if we work on sustainability.
#writeyourjourney