My Career

Michael Jandjee Ngutjinazo (MJN) believes that to start a business, you need to have a clear vision and a strong business plan, as well as invest time in understanding the market and the specific needs of your target customers. In this week’s edition of My Careers, MJN, the founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of M-Jay Blitz Investments, walks Walter Kariko (WK) through his exciting entrepreneurial journey.

WK: You are the CEO and founder of M-Jay Blitz Investments. Tell us about your company.
MJN: M-Jay Blitz Investments is an electrical start-up based in Namibia, specialising in the installation and maintenance of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Founded in 2021, our mission is to provide sustainable and affordable solar energy solutions to both residential and commercial clients. We are committed to driving Namibia’s transition to renewable energy by offering top-notch services and innovative solar technologies.

WK: How about some background? Have you always been an entrepreneur?
MJN: I’ve always had a passion for innovation and problem-solving, which naturally led me to entrepreneurship. Before founding M-Jay Blitz, I worked in various roles within the electrical engineering sector, where I gained valuable insights and experience. The increasing need for clean energy solutions in Namibia inspired me to start my own business focused on solar energy.

WK: What is the most frequent question people ask you about entrepreneurship?
MJN: The most frequent question I get is, ‘how did you get started?’ People are always curious about the initial steps of starting a business, from securing funding to building a client base and overcoming the initial challenges. They want to know what inspired me and how I managed to turn an idea into a successful company.

WK: Green hydrogen seems to be the buzzword, with everyone doing their best to get onto this bandwagon. Do you share the same excitement?
MJN: Absolutely! Green hydrogen presents a remarkable opportunity for clean energy development. While our focus at M-Jay Blitz is primarily on solar PV systems, we are enthusiastic about the potential of green hydrogen. It’s a complementary technology that can significantly enhance the renewable energy landscape and we are keeping a close eye on developments in this area to explore potential integrations and collaborations.

WK: As a young entrepreneur in Namibia who is transitioning into a clean energy hub with green hydrogen, what opportunities do you think are there for you and many other young people in this sector?
MJN: The transition to a clean energy hub in Namibia offers vast opportunities, especially for young entrepreneurs. There is potential for innovation in energy storage, distribution and integration of various renewable sources. Additionally, the demand for skilled professionals in installation, maintenance and technology development is growing. Young entrepreneurs can capitalise on these opportunities by starting businesses that address these needs and by contributing to the sustainable energy future of our country.

WK: How do you differentiate your services from other competitors in the market?
MJN: At M-Jay Blitz, we differentiate ourselves through our commitment to quality, customer satisfaction and innovation. We use the latest technologies and adhere to international standards to ensure the reliability and efficiency of our solar PV systems. Our personalised approach, where we tailor solutions to meet the specific needs of our clients, sets us apart. Additionally, our strong focus on after-sales service and maintenance ensures that our systems perform optimally over their lifespan.

WK: Can you share any significant milestones or achievements your company has reached?
MJN: One of our significant milestones was completing a large solar installation project for a client within our first year of operation. This project not only demonstrated our capability to handle large projects but also established our reputation in the industry. Another achievement is our successful partnerships with local communities, which have enabled us to bring solar power to remote areas, contributing to their development and improving their quality of life.

WK: What are some of the biggest risks that you have taken as an entrepreneur?
MJN: One of the biggest risks was investing a substantial amount of personal savings into starting the company. Another major risk was entering a highly competitive market with established players. However, with careful planning, persistence and a focus on delivering quality services, we have been able to overcome these challenges and grow our business.

WK: What advice would you give to a young Namibian looking to start their own business in the electrical or solar installation industry?
MJN: My advice would be to start with a clear vision and a strong business plan. Invest time in understanding the market and the specific needs of your target customers. Stay committed to quality and continuous learning, as technology in this field is rapidly evolving. Building a network of mentors and industry contacts can also provide valuable guidance and opportunities. Lastly, be prepared for challenges and remain resilient in the face of setbacks.

WK: What kind of books and materials do you read?
MJN: I enjoy reading books on entrepreneurship, renewable energy and technological innovation. Some of my favourites include ‘The Lean Startup’ by Eric Ries, ‘The Innovator’s Dilemma’ by Clayton Christensen and ‘Renewable Energy: A Primer for the Twenty-First Century’ by Bruce Usher. I also keep up with industry journals and publications to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in renewable energy.

WK: What do you do for fun in your spare time?
MJN: In my spare time, I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring Namibia’s beautiful landscapes. I also love spending time with my family and friends and I am an avid reader. Additionally, I have a keen interest in technology and enjoy tinkering with gadgets and new tech innovations.