How Tiny Bikitsha went from full-time employee to entrepreneur
Over the past weeks I’ve posted some inspiring interviews on things to consider when starting your own business. I wanted to hear some real stories from different entrepreneurs to see what it was that made them finally take the leap to start their own businesses.
In a recent article, Natasha Alomia shared some encouragement for wannabee trail blazers. In this interview, Tiny Bikitsha, owner and founder of Unam Foods shares some inspiring words. Her company offers top-quality catering solutions for up-market functions in both the corporate and private sectors. Tiny started her career from the bottom as an events hostess and worked her way up, managing events in the media industry. This experience has given her valuable insights in terms of what clients expect, what can go wrong and how to manage projects to ensure the client’s desired results. Tiny studied Marketing Management, Project Management and Managers Accelerated Programme.
Please share your story. How did you move from corporate world into being an business owner? How did that process unravel?
I have worked In a corporate environment for over 10 years and had that feeling of wanting something more. I was grateful for the experience, but I knew from beginning that eventually I would go out on my own because of my need for growth and my love for new experiences.
I left my job without any savings, and my personal life was in shambles. I wondered about leaving the comfort of my salary but that little voice in my head didn't go away. The fear of having no salary was there — especially when you have a child — but I knew that somehow God would provide.
What were your fears about making the leap from a full-time job with a steady income and benefits to running your own business?
I have a great support system that allowed me to realise my dreams. The first year was the hardest, and the second was tough too. It got a little better In the third year but you have to keep pushing and knocking on those doors.
Starting a business is not easy. It's not for the fainthearted! You must choose to do something that you love, and nurture It like you would your own child.
What is your experience so far as an entrepreneur?
Success really does not come easily.You have to put in the hours and all your sweat. It pays off In the end.It helps to align yourself with the right people, those who want to see you succeed, who are there for you no matter your financial situation because, trust me, you might lose your "friends" in the process! Take a leap of faith and trust that God will ensure that you succeed.
There are programmes and support systems for start up female business owners. Do your research in your chosen field. Ask for help. If you don't ask for help, people wont know that you need it. Investigate suitable places for the business you want to start. Ask lots of questions. Opportunities and investors are waiting for you! When you open up they can step forward and help you.
What advice would you give to women who want to start a business?
There are programmes and support systems for start up female business owners. Do your research in your chosen field. Ask for help. If you don't ask for help, people wont know that you need it. Investigate suitable places for the business you want to start. Ask lots of questions. Opportunities and investors are waiting for you! When you open up they can step forward and help you.
If you require Tiny's services, get in touch via email: Email : info@unamfoods.com or tiny@unamfoods.com.
Check out their Facebook page.
So when is the perfect time to start your own business? In reality, there is no perfect time. There will always be challenges. Perhaps the better question is, “Do you have the passion and tenacity for starting your own business?”
In a recent article, Natasha Alomia shared some encouragement for wannabee trail blazers. In this interview, Tiny Bikitsha, owner and founder of Unam Foods shares some inspiring words. Her company offers top-quality catering solutions for up-market functions in both the corporate and private sectors. Tiny started her career from the bottom as an events hostess and worked her way up, managing events in the media industry. This experience has given her valuable insights in terms of what clients expect, what can go wrong and how to manage projects to ensure the client’s desired results. Tiny studied Marketing Management, Project Management and Managers Accelerated Programme.
Please share your story. How did you move from corporate world into being an business owner? How did that process unravel?
I have worked In a corporate environment for over 10 years and had that feeling of wanting something more. I was grateful for the experience, but I knew from beginning that eventually I would go out on my own because of my need for growth and my love for new experiences.
I left my job without any savings, and my personal life was in shambles. I wondered about leaving the comfort of my salary but that little voice in my head didn't go away. The fear of having no salary was there — especially when you have a child — but I knew that somehow God would provide.
What were your fears about making the leap from a full-time job with a steady income and benefits to running your own business?
I have a great support system that allowed me to realise my dreams. The first year was the hardest, and the second was tough too. It got a little better In the third year but you have to keep pushing and knocking on those doors.
Starting a business is not easy. It's not for the fainthearted! You must choose to do something that you love, and nurture It like you would your own child.
There are programmes and support systems for start up female business owners. Do your research in your chosen field. Ask for help. If you don't ask for help, people wont know that you need it. Investigate suitable places for the business you want to start. Ask lots of questions. Opportunities and investors are waiting for you! When you open up they can step forward and help you.
There are programmes and support systems for start up female business owners. Do your research in your chosen field. Ask for help. If you don't ask for help, people wont know that you need it. Investigate suitable places for the business you want to start. Ask lots of questions. Opportunities and investors are waiting for you! When you open up they can step forward and help you.
Check out their Facebook page.
So when is the perfect time to start your own business? In reality, there is no perfect time. There will always be challenges. Perhaps the better question is, “Do you have the passion and tenacity for starting your own business?”
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