James Karundu (right), Founder of PassionBiz Academy receiving a certificate of appreciation from  Arthur Omolo (left), Strategy and Operations Director of Professional Outsource Ltd at Talent Academy, Nairobi (KENYA)

Last Saturday, James Karundu graced an entrepreneurship seminar at Talent Academy, Lang’ata as the chief guest and speaker. The founder of PassionBiz Academy spoke about identifying entrepreneurship opportunities and how to start, grow and expand business. PassionBiz Academy provides business mentoring for startups, service providers and entrepreneurs.

The seminar was sponsored by Talent Academy, Professional Outsource Ltd and Madinspaya. Professional Outsource Ltd provides advisory services in areas of business consultancy. Madinspaya is a private social enterprise that aims to make a difference in social programs and youth aspiration. The two organizations organized the event to enable Lang’ata area residents with business ideas to gain confidence and learn what skills to use in the business world. “There is a gap when people try to sell their products. We got together with Professional Outsource Ltd to add value to the community,” said Nduku Mutua of Madinspaya.

James addressing the seminar audience at Talent Academy, Nairobi (KENYA)

At the seminar, James said that entrepreneurship opportunities are hidden in plain sight. “What is being waited for is that crazy idea you have been thinking of,” said James. He explained that the use of ‘3 J’s’ is influential when identifying entrepreneurship opportunities. They stand for jiamini (believe your own majic) , jitokeze (take a bold step) and jiinue (uplift yourself).

When discussing how to start, grow and expand business, James highlighted important factors to consider. These factors included targeting ideal customers, the power of focus and using a positioning statement. He also said that a business must have a name with a promise. “Sometimes the promise is overt or implied,” he explained. James engaged the audience in team exercises and engaged with them by answering their business questions. “There is a sense of community that I got from the interactions,” said Nduku Mutua. “It gave me a sense of affirmation that I am not alone,” she added.

Sidian Bank also took part in the seminar and discussed small and medium sized enterprise (SME) financing. A Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry representative discussed benefits of being a member of their organisation. It has partnered with financial institutions and provides financial benefits to its members.

You can see more photos from the event on our Facebook page by clicking here

Please follow and like us: