The Art of Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship has been identified as critical to the future of the Namibian economy. It has, in support of local business leaders, been stressed several times by government and President Hage Geingob as an area unemployed Namibians should explore.

Recently the Ministry of Higher Education, Training and Innovation hosted a two-day Students Entrepreneurs Programme conference – the kick-start to a programme aimed at inspiring and unlocking the passion in Namibia’s young and aspiring entrepreneurs. This initiative was born from government’s commitment to encouraging entrepreneurship, as a key pillar on this journey towards prosperity for all.

Chalotte Kotze is no exception to the Namibians out there who have taken this call seriously in realisation of her potential to make more of life, not only for herself and her family, but hopefully as a way to inspire others to embark on the journey of entrepreneurship.

An accountant by profession, Kotze has just recently turned what she regards as a hobby into a business opportunity.

“I was so anxious to find something to keep myself busy during my free time, and was eventually drawn by especially neck pieces that I see everywhere and on TV. My mind started wandering as I considered my daughter’s upcoming entrepreneur fair at school which was just around the corner. I then consulted my new best friend Google and got some tips, and that is where I learnt the concept of making neck pieces with flour.”

She is joined by her two children and husband in the endeavour of creating colourful beaded neckpieces. “It is absolute fun. I enjoy every moment of it which is also some valuable quality time I spend with my family.”

Between 2010 and 2016, poverty in Namibia was, according to the Fifth National Development Plan (NDP5) reduced from 28,7% of the population in 2009/10 to 18% in 2015/16.

The plan also states however that despite the noted reduction in poverty levels, economic growth has not significantly reduced unemployment levels which currently roams at around 28%, nor has it made any difference in income inequality.

Also speaking at the conference, managing director of Benz Building Supplies Group of Companies, Ben Zaaruka stressed that opportunities are endless for entrepreneurial possibilities.

“Just look around, open your eyes, set your mind to identifying opportunities. You will notice that there are plenty of them out there. Money is everywhere. Just open your mind and find them.”

Notable is the current massive gap in loss between imports and exports for the country. According to the NDP5, Namibia continues to be a net importer of goods and services.

The country’s trade balance over the last four years recorded an average trade deficit of N$25 billion.

And while government is attempting to improve educational opportunities to address the country’s skills deficits in the labour market as per the NDP5, others like Kotze are determined to take what they have and kick-start their journey to becoming entrepreneurs and contributors of growth.

Speaking so passionately about her new found love, Kotze is confident.

“This is definitely a concept that will embrace my daughter’s selling point at her upcoming entrepreneurs fair at school, but I am open to seeing how far this creative pool will drive me. I am inspired by the fact that I have already sold a few pieces, even though I only started creating a few months ago. I have grown to believe that finding the one true thing that drives you and gives you a fulfilling and complete life is the answer to many of the personal satisfaction issues we all tend to meet along the way.”

Kotze agrees with the ideals and goals of the Harambee Prosperity Plan and realises that it can not succeed with government’s efforts alone, but requires the efforts of all Namibians.

“Whatever you as an individual can do in contribution to moving yourself and this country forward will help. And maybe it is finding something you are passionate about and embarking on a journey to use that passion to make a living, growing a career and creating opportunities for others.

At the end of the day, you are not only doing it for yourself and the future well-being of your family, but contributing significantly to the economy of this nation, which in turn again has great impact on you and your loved ones.

“And while I am not where I want to be yet, I truly hope that I can inspire others to take what they have, and turn it into an opportunity for greatness.”

Entrepreneurship in the modern age is highly necessary to counter unemployment and eradicate poverty.

Executive chairman of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) group and president of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sven Thieme always says “when you have passion for what you do, it is no longer is a job. It is a habit that you enjoy”.

As a speaker at the recent conference, he shared some sage advice for success with the aspiring entrepreneurs in attendance.

“Success in every sphere is based on a clear defined purpose. Know your purpose, embrace and live it.”

“Now that I know what my purpose and passion is, I need confidence to excel in an ever competitive world. The more action (including risks) you take, the more confidence you gain. But, there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Confidence coupled with humility earns respect.”