Wise business advice from female entrepreneurs

Joyce Kyalema, founder of Josmak International Limited, a company involved in pumpkin growing and value addition.
"Before you enter the world of entrepreneurship, think carefully about what it is exactly that you want out of the experience. Understand your own motivations before you get involved, that way, you will find yourself more satisfied in the long run. Do not start a business simply because it seems sexy or boosts large profit margins and returns. Do what you love. Businesses built around your strengths and talents will have a greater chance of success. It is not only important to create a profitable business, but also, it is important that you are happy managing and growing it day in, day out. If your heart is not in it, you will not be successful. There are many challenges on the way but if you love what you do, you will always persist because for each issue you encounter, there is opportunity for growth. Always be yourself, be the change you wish to see in the world,”

Florence Naggirina Ssebbowa Kasule, chairperson, Network of African Business Women-Uganda Chapter, an affiliate of Graca Machel Trust of South Africa.

"I often advise women to startup businesses they are passionate about. Do not conform to the pressure of starting up a business because other people are doing it. Start a business you love with the resources that are at your disposal. After developing the idea, make a business plan outlining the objectives including your target audience? What service you will be providing? What outcomes you expect to see from the business, among other crucial aspects. The business plan must be clear. It is also important that you register your business with the respective authorities so as to avoid inconveniences. I also urge women to read and research more so as to become professionals in their fields. If you can, enrol for a study programme in that particular field,”

Barbara Ofwono Buyondo, principal, Victorious Education Services.

“ It is important to start a business that love you, reason, you will find fulfilment in operating it. Whenever you start a business you do not love, you will always burn out and lose creativity for it. Those are people always starting new businesses and closing shop. Secondly, it is always important to put in extra time in your work, for example, if you are running a school and closing time is 5pm, you may decide to go an extra two hours so as to finish up any other pending work on your desk. Whenever you take an extra mile in doing your work, you are always a step ahead from others and they will always be amazed about your exceptional results. Also, many times, women give up easily. You start up something and because business is slow, you close shop. Success takes commitment, resilience and the ability to learn from your mistakes. That aside, I encourage women to always identify and seek support from professional women. For instance, it could be an association of women entrepreneurs whom you can always call and share your experiences with including challenges. Such groups of women are very helpful in providing advice and mentorship,”