charge of operations, marketing and sales.
Due to a series of disappointments, he
decided to resign.
“After eight months sitting at home
without work, I told myself: It is better I do
something on my own.”
“I sold my car and supplemented the money
I made with a bank loan to build
At-Mau-Sphere. I buy and sell branded
clothes straight from factories, allowing
me to sell at good prices, more especially
because my shop is located in a village,
where most people can’t afford high prices.
This also leads to fast sales, as I sell more
within a short time instead of waiting for
only one customer to buy one item at a high
price.’’
Challenges are inherent in any business,
regardless of its size. ‘’ Diversifying my
product offering is not as easy as one may
think. To achieve that, I have to invest
heavily in installing additional fixtures such
as cabinets in the shop, which is costly. Also,
none of my suppliers is willing to offer credit
facilities.’’
John-Pierre plans to launch another business
in which he will organise boat trips for
tourists who want to engage in fun activities
such as fishing and snorkelling. “I will
use the same space I have to promote this
business. I have satisfied all the necessary
legal requirements like applying for a boat
operator license. I don’t want to put my eggs
in one basket. It is risky to depend on one
thing.’’
“I am happy as my own boss, and I am
crafting my own path.’’
BUSINESS