EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
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November 2013
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
February 2014
March 2014
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In the April Issue Jane Mbogo, Founder and CEO of Premier Day Spa Kenya shared her journey into entrepreneurship with our readers. Known as the Anti-aging guru, Jane is an expert in matters of healthy skin and beauty. As the sole distributor of the 100% organic Premier Dead Sea products, she advices women on how to keep skin clean, fresh and youthful. For the full story and more, click on the link below. Subscribe
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
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CONTENTS SMALL BUSINESS FEATURES WORTHY CAUSE: Contributors Alice Kibagendi, Irene Mukonyoro, Kawira Mirero, Susan Kimanzi Photography Japheth Kagondu Tek Production Services www.tek.co.ke Graphics (Cover) Redbrick Consulting Marketing Services Cover Model Anna Chojnacka Nailab, onepercentlub
The EntrepreneuHER Magazine assumes all articles published herein are original and are the property of the submitting persons. Opinions expressed in the articles of EntrepreneuHER are those of the author (s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the EntrepreneuHER Magazine Fraternity
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
BOOK SUGGESTIONS MOTHER’S DAY SPECIAL Page 5: Letter From The Editor Page 8: Business 101:Legal Intellectual Property Law Page 10: Business 101: Marketing 10 FREE Ways to Market your Business Page 15: COVER FEATURE: Anna Chojnacka Breaking Walls & Providing Solutions that Last Page 22. The Low Down on Crowdfunding What it is & How it works Page 28: Moms Who Think Solving problems the mommy way Page 29: Alice Kibagendi of Amara Initiative First Aid Saves Lives Page 37: Koki Mutua , Easy Vanilla Profit Passion: Baking all the way to the Bank Page 44: Mother’s Day Chicken Special Page 45: Irene Mukonyori of Buni Media The ABC of XYZ
We welcome writers in the diverse field of Business. Share your wealth of knowledge with our 1,500 + readers, write to the editor nish@entrepreneuher.co.ke
5 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Her story of triumph is nestled within the words of page 30, 31 and 33 Motherhood is snot easy!!! Eeewwww! LOL !! If she can’t find it, she’ll make it. Such is the stuff mother’s are made of. We had fun looking at some cute mom-inventions on page 34. Koki Mutua, the head honcho at Easy Vanilla whips out the loveliest fluffiest dessert cakes. Read on page 37 how starting small should not deter one from starting a business. Read about how a home bakery came from humble beginnings to serving cake to multinational companies.
In this issue we celebrate mothers and inventions. We celebrate new ways of doing things. We celebrate solutions. Anna Chojnacka understands only too well the economic problems facing humankind. Having experienced the harshness of communism in the native country Polland, she hungers for lasting solutions that will bridge the gap between those who have and those without. Read her story on page 16. Alice Kibagendi did not shy away from finding a solution when she suffered an immense personal loss. Instead, she harnessed her energies and sought to empower parents and care-takers through first-aid training and accident management skills.
And lastly, on page 45, if you have a satirical bone then you must be a fan of the XYZ Show. Behind the scenes and the foam puppets, a soul scurries in the background eating, thinking, drinking budgets. Irene Mukonyoro gives us an insight into the life of a production manager. Enjoy a Mother’s day dish of chicken and learn how to market your business for almost free. Even more importantly, find out what you need to do protect your ideas and creations. Enjoy!!
nish EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
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MOTHER IS A VERB. IT IS SOMETHING YOU DO. NOT JUST WHO YOU ARE. *Cheryl Lacey Donovan
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ADVERTISE IN THE JUNE ISSUE For enquiries, contact the Editor Email: nish@entrepreneuher.co.ke OR Call : +254 721 944 371 OR SMS: +254 703 726 838.
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
BUSINESS 101: Legal
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Most of the world’s inventions, as you may have noticed, do not start off as a business venture. They are first and foremost solutions to a individual’s pressing problem. It is only after other’s have inquired after having the product/invention that the commercial factor kicks in. Not all inventions therefore, make for viable businesses. For those that qualify for commercialization, it is critical for the inventor to protect their creation. The Law allows for this under Intellectual Property Law. The World celebrated Intellectual Property Day on 26th April with events held around the world and one such held at the Strathmore University courtesy of KIKAO IP. This year’s theme revolved around the movie industry.
>>> EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
9 You may be asking? What is intellectual Property and of what importance is it to an entrepreneur? WHAT IS INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY (IP) Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind e.g. designs & symbols, images, literary works (books), artistic works (movies, music, videos), names and inventions as used in commerce. Intellectual Property Law is therefore area of law dealing with the protection of the rights of those who create original works/inventors. It covers anything from plays, novels, inventions and company identification marks such as logo & trademarks. The purpose of intellectual property law is to encourage new artistic expressions, inventions and technological advancement while promoting economic growth. WHAT IS AN INVENTION An invention may be defined as the discovery or creation of a new material, a new process, a new use for an already existing material or any improvements of any of these. Inventions are easy to define but can be difficult to identify. New knowledge that is publishable may not necessarily qualify to be an invention. It can be difficult to identify which part of effort constitutes an invention. Inventions may include:
New technologies (such as MPESA) Biological materials Computer software (MOBILE APPS) Copyrightable materials (BOOKS, MUSIC, MOVIES etc
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New tools or processes developed to meet a particular research objective There are three main mechanisms for protecting intellectual property. 1. Copyrights Copyrights protect expressive arts giving owners exclusive rights to reproduce their work, display them publicly or perform their work. Owners are also given economic rights to benefit financially from their work and to prevent others from copying, performing or displaying their work without their permission. It is important to realize that copyrights do not protect ideas, only the expression of it. For instance, copyright would not prohibit others from writing a fantasy book but will protect the original manuscripts belonging JK Rowling, the author of the highly acclaimed Harry Potter books. In other words, anyone can write a fantasy novel but cannot copy or reproduce the Harry Potter Books. Other fantasy books exist such as The Lord of the Rings Series, the Twilight series etc. Patents Patents protect an invention from being made, sold or used by others for a certain period of time. There are three different types of Design Patents - protect the unique way a manufactured object appears.
10 Utility Patents - protect inventions that
RESOURCES
have a specific function, including things like chemicals, machines and technology. Plant Patents - protect plant varieties that are asexually reproduced including hybrids.
Locally, there are government agencies set up to help inventors and creators protect their creations. These institutions charge a fee for their services. They include
Inventors must apply for patents and wait to be approved by the relevant office according to their country’s laws. It is a complex and time consuming process that may more often require the assistance of an IP Lawyer. Trademarks Trademarks protect the names and identifying marks of products and companies. The purpose of trademarks is to make it easy for consumers to distinguish competitors from each other. Trademarks are automatically assumed once a business begins using a certain mark to identify its company, and may use the symbol TM without filing their symbol or name with the government.
REMEDIES When intellectual property rights are violated, it is important to hire an intellectual property lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you sue for damages that include lost royalties.
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The Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) situated on the 6th Floor NHF Building, Upper Hill. The Kenya Industrial Properties Institute (KIPI) which is responsible for registering patents and trademarks. Their offices are on Popo Road, South C. The Strathmore University, a private institution of Higher learning has set up the Center for Intellectual Property and Information Technology (CIPIT). They offer assistance in the IP process. The centre has a wealth of information including relevant laws that are free to download.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT THESE WEBSITES http://cipitlawstrath.wordpress.com www.kipi.go.ke www.copyright.go.ke
11 BUSINESS 101: MARKETING
FREE WAYS TO MARKET YOUR BUSINESS BY: KAWIRA MIRERO
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The tactics I am about to share with you are not necessarily free. You will need to invest time in research, in planning in actual implementation and subsequent follow up. The first and most important free way to market your business is to be your business’ chief spokesperson/brand ambassador. If you are in fashion, wear your clothes. If you are in medicine, speak more about issues dear to you and specific problems that you can solve. 1
GET LISTED IN ALL FREE DIRECTORIES
Shortlist all the online directories that related to your target market, product or services and ensure you appear on them. Start with Google; this ensures that when a local resident searches for terms that relate to your business, your business will show up as one of the top results. You do not need a web page for your company to show up in results.
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LEARN HOW TO USE SOCIAL MEDIA Regardless of what business you are in, there are several ways to leverage Social Media to increase awareness of your business and brand. For example those in heavily regulated industries like Medicine can leverage Social Media by sharing health tips, sponsored by their brand.
VOLUNTEER Volunteer to speak at events that are related to your industry. When you get the opportunity, position yourself as an expert by doing your research well and keeping your speech or presentation relevant.
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WRITE A FREE EBOOK
HOST A WORKSHOP. These could be free or co-sponsored by others in your industry. The idea is to bring prospective clients together, to share ideas and knowledge. Keep the subject relevant and informative.
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It does not need to be a long book. If you have a powerful message or a compelling story, the book will be shared, and word will get out. The idea is to stand –out in a positive and meaningful way, so don’t write a book that is not particularly special.
6. PUBLISH ARTICLES
Publishers of magazines and newspapers are constantly looking for fresh material. Come up with fresh ideas and pitch those to relevant editors
BECOME AN EXPERT FOR THE MEDIA If you are well spoken, have fresh ideas; position yourself to be the expert of choice for journalists seeking an expert opinion or comment. This translates to free publicity and positions you as an authority in your field
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GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY Organize a charity walk, a clean-up hour or donate a percentage of your proceeds to a cause that is related to your business. In so doing, you increase awareness of your business in the community. This awareness may translate to PR coverage for your business too.
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SAY THANK YOU Send thank you notes, emails or messages to your current customers. In the message, appreciate your client for their business and perhaps offer them a discount if they refer a friend. Or send them a gift card to pass on to their friend for a free trial. In so doing you are giving them the opportunity to do something nice for someone else and in the process you could get a new customer.
GIVE FREE SAMPLES Give away a trial or sample of your product. This encourages people to try your product at no risk and if it is good, word of mouth will be a powerful tool to carry the message
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ANNA
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CHOJNACKA PROVIDING SOLUTIONS THAT LAST
If there is a concept Anna understands perfectly, it is one of SYNERGY. Born in communist Polland before the fall of the Berlin Wall, she experienced first hand the struggles of inequitable and lack of access to basic resources. Determined to make a change in the world, she took up jobs in the humanitarian sector but was before long, itching to do something greater..something that would help bridge the gap between those that have and those without. Her endeavors led her to East Africa where together with others she sought to find lasting solutions to life’s everyday problems. I caught up with Anna for a chat...
HER STORY…
>>> EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
NISH: Please tell us a little about yourself ANNA: Well, I was born in Poland and moved to the Netherlands at the age of ten; it was just before the fall of the Berlin Wall. The Berlin Wall was a real wall that divided Europe in two parts; the capitalistic and the communistic side. My mother, who was divorced at the time, made the drastic and brave decision to escape Poland and make a leap of faith in order to secure a different future not only for her but also for my brother & I. At that time we left, we were certain we would not see my father or the rest of the family for an undefined period of time. It would be the highest price to pay for being ‘on the other side’ of the wall. The underside was the one of being an underdog; this was huge transition for my mother who was a successful entrepreneur back in Poland. She could not handle the transition well and become depressed and isolated...all this because of the wall. Fortunately in 1989, the Berlin Wall came down but unfortunately there are many other walls left in the world that kept dividing us societies into two- the Haves and the Haves Not. My passion lies in transforming systems and creating new ways of access to resources, knowledge and capital so that everyone gets an opportunity to realise their dreams without paying high life-shattering stakes.
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Anna, 35, also owns outboxmatters.com. Follow her on Twitter: @anna1procent
NISH: Tell us about your business ANNA: There are several businesses I have co-founded, two that I’m particularly proud of. One is the Nailab aiming to change Kenya one start-up at a time. The dream is to give talented entrepreneurs access to everything that is needed to get a head start with their start-up through our threemonth incubation program. The second one is the Onepercentclub, a Crowdfunding platform which facilitates social entrepreneurs and those that execute projects aimed at bettering the world. Crowdfunding is a new source of acquiring capital to get a company/idea of the ground and if done well, comes with other benefits such as an engaged crowd that buys your products or offers other assistance one may need. EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
NISH: What motivated you to start your business? ANNA: My background, but also the changing world around us; the World Wide Web offers a unique new opportunity to get connected and work in entirely new ways and not being limited by geographical location or lack of access to knowledge and information. The rise of the Wikipedia was especially truly inspirational; all these people investing their time in the creation of the biggest encyclopaedia ever‌that inspires some kind of faith, does it not? NISH: What keeps you motivated? ANNA: The good things that happen, stories I hear...and the fact that if you act as if anything is possible, you automatically surround yourself with people who make the impossible possible. People bring enormous amount of happiness with them. And that is perhaps the biggest award! NISH: How much, in terms of capital did you start with? ANNA: All my savings. NISH: What challenges have you encountered so far in your line of business? ANNA: Things change so rapidly and in order to keep up and especially when you want to keep ahead, you need to transform your company as well. Sometimes this means that job descriptions no longer fit and hence have to say goodbye to people you truly value and appreciate. That is still the hardest thing for me.
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The World Wide Web offers a unique new opportunity to get connected and work in entirely new ways
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NISH: How do you handle these challenges? ANNA: I always going back to the core values, to the mission I started with. If you don’t keep building the best business possible, in the end everybody will lose. By staying true, you can make the difficult decisions without losing your integrity and even retain friendships and or at least respect with all those you have worked with. NISH: Fear, self doubt and lack of confidence are some of the greatest personal challenges an entrepreneur encounters. Have you experienced these and how have you dealt with them? ANNA: First of all; just get used to them. Honestly I have a personal crisis every Monday but I know by Tuesday things will be better J and by Friday a new milestone will have been achieved. You have to get comfortable with uncertainty...with the fact that nothing is for sure; there are no blueprints you can use to build your business on in this day and age. All the books talk about successful companies FROM RETROSPECT and however useful the advice is, you need to use your own wits and gut feeling in the here and now. What does work however is to surround yourself with people of outstanding values and knowledge and together you’ll make it.
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NISH: What do you appreciate most about owning and running your own business? ANNA: The good thing about running a business as a woman is the freedom you have over your calendar. You now what work needs to be done but you are often free to plan your schedule. This makes it easier to be a mother for example. I am a mother of three and could not have managed parenting combined with a strict 9 till 7 job that is so common in the corporate world. I do not like that culture. In the 21st century, training your most talented employees is the way to go after all, a good a good company should create solutions that make life on this planet better; and a good human being should make the life of those around him or her better. These two missions should be intertwined and not, as is the case now, interfere with each other. NISH: What books have been instrumental to your growth and success up to this point in your life and career? ANNA: Difficult question, I honestly believe I’ve read almost all of them; but a classic one should be, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. It really stuck with me. I always begin “with the end in mind” with any project or meeting I attend; the principle of mutual understanding and creating win-win situations really work. The latest hit is The Lean Start Up, everybody I know is reading it
20 NISH: If you could start all over again, what would you do differently? ANNA: I would stress less and practice the art of Zen. Really, you should have a clear plan, and the determination, but in the end everything will go differently anyway; you can better accept it and use it to your own advantage than fight or regret it. The more energy you will have leftover to use at the unexpected turn of events. NISH: What would you say to someone who wants to start a business but is unsure where to start? ANNA: If you do not have a clear understanding of what need you are solving or who your customer is; keep looking. If you do but struggle with practical things like logistics or writing a good business plan, find a good coach as soon as possible. NISH: What is the secret to your success? ANNA: If there is a secret, I think it is in the personal growth factor. The biggest challenge is surpassing your ego. You need so many people to build your business and they are not just your co-founders or co-workers, we are talking about the customers, stakeholders even your spouse. They all have good advice and needs; to balance all this is the true art of doing business. But if you do it, you’ll never fail and even more importantly, you will always celebrate in a good crowd! NISH: What do you do to relax? ANNA: I read and run! NISH: What is your favourite local meal? ANNA: Local as in Kenyan? That is a hard one, since I am a vegetarian. I do however love chapati! NISH: If you were stuck in Nairobi town without a phone, laptop or any means of communication, how would you make your way back to your house? ANNA: Hmm... I’m afraid I would have to hitchhike but if I was lucky to be wearing my running shoes, I would go for that! EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
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WIN A SPA VOUCHER WORTH KES: 2,500 COURTESY OF THE FABULOUS NA Spa, Thika CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR DETAILS
https://www.facebook.com/TheEntrepreneuherKenya
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
BUSINESS 101: FINANCING 22
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Do you have a dream? A passion? Something you have always wanted to do? Dreams cost money right? Some dreams are down‐ right expensive. So, you have your project or business idea figured out but you luck the capital required to see it off the ground. Like every business should, your project/idea is geared to provide real solutions to problems or is brilliant and needed by people or it will improve quality of life…what to do?
CROWDFUND!!! Crowdfunding by definition is funding a project or business ven‐ ture by raising many small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically via the Internet. Project creators will usually log on to a Crowdfunding platform, create a profile containing a short video and some still images of the project (e.g. a picture of a prototype), they will include an introduction to their project and offer a list of rewards for donations made. Alongside other offline networks of friends and family, project creators may reach out to the online community through social media to make a case for their project and invite people to donate to their cause or venture. Basically, the primary idea here is to create a compelling message so that readers will be drawn towards your project and conse‐ quently make a donation towards it. EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
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TYPES OF CROWDFUNDING There are three types; Debt, Equity and Donation.
Debt Crowdfunding In this type of Crowdfunding, also referred to as Peer‐to ‐Peer lending, the investors receive their money back with interest. Returns here in are primarily financial but investors although there is pride in contributing to‐ wards the success of a business venture or good cause.
Equity Crowdfunding Here, money is exchanged for a stake in the business, project or venture. If the project is successful the value appreciates, if not, value depreciates.
Donation Crowdfunding People invest because they believe in the cause; the do‐ nors give for social or personal reasons and expect nothing in return. Rewards may be offered in any one or more ways such as free admittance to an event, a free gift, a mention or credit in the project‐ say in a film or book etc. EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
According to Forbes.com donors/ investors will contribute because;
1. They connect to the greater purpose of the campaign
2. They connect to a physical aspect of the campaign like the rewards
3. They connect to the creative display of the campaign’s presentation
24 HOW IT WORKS After setting up a profile and getting the word out, the pro‐ ject creator will then upload their project online so that their campaign is LIVE and accessible to the public. Each campaign is set for a specified amount of money and a fixed number of days. Once the project is launched, the countdown to deadline begins and all monies raised is up‐ dated for visitors and investors to follow. Donations are typi‐ cally done via credit card and are updated accordingly. Some of the popular Crowdfunding platforms include; Indie‐ gogo, KickStarter, gofundme and Kenya’s very own 1%Club. Check out http://www.hongkiat.com/blog/crowdfunding‐ sites for a comprehensive list and further details on fees and other bonuses. The 2014 movie, Veronica Mars (see poster) staring Kirsten Bell an adaptation from the TV investigative drama series by the same name, is an example of projects that have been funded through Crowdfunding. The campaign was launched via KickStarter. The 1% club and nailab According to Wikipedia, the 1%CLUB is a non‐profit organization which uses an online platform to connect people with ideas in developing countries with people, money and knowledge around the world. nailab on the other hand is a business incu‐ bation hub promoting and supporting start‐ ups to become fully self‐sustaining. The nailab runs a 3‐6 month incubation program for small businesses through which entre‐ preneurs are mentored as well as provided with office space, training, networking op‐ portunities etc so as to build and shape them into successful businesses.
In March, the 1%club in conjunction with nailab hosted Kenya’s first Crowdfunding Bootcamp which saw 21 start‐ups present their business ideas and ventures to a panel of judges. EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
The purpose of the Bootcamp was to introduce young entrepreneurs into the world and rigors of Crowdfunding. The entrepreneurs were carefully guided through the process of setting up profiles and setting up captivating cam‐ paigns. This Bootcamp was replicated in Am‐ sterdam and South Africa with much success.
Nairobi Bootcamp
The stakes were high at the Nairobi Bootcamp. The entrepreneur to emerge at the top with the most money donated to their venture at the end of the two‐day event would receive cash winnings of KES. 300,000 ,the Second Runners up would receive KES. 90,000 (while the third in line would receive KES 60,000.
Of the 21 Entries, SokoText, Keja‐Hunt and Young Freddie would emerge at the top in that order. See pictures
>>>
PICTORIAL
25 nailab CEO, Sam Gichuru, presents a cheque of KES 300,000 to Suraj Gudka of Sokotext; winner of the Nairobi Crowdfunding Bootcamp. Looking on is nailab co-founder Anna Chojnacka.
Second Runners up, Joshua Mutua of KejaHunt receives a cheque of KES 90, 000 for their venture which seeks to find co-shared and affordable housing for the youth
Young Freddie a shoe designer at TOPMOST KOLLECTIONS receives a cheque of KES 60,000 from the nailab Team.
For more details about the onepercentclub or nailab, visit their websites www.onepercentclub.com and www.nailab.co.ke EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
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NECESSITY IS THE MOTHER OF INVENTION *Plato EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
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MOMS WHO… THINK
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rowing up, I thought my mom was a magician. For every problem I faced, she had a solution. Every time there was a problem –maybe soap ran out or my brothers picked on me, she fixed it. MOMS ARE FIXERS. Nothing vexes a mother more than a problem (seemingly) without a solution especially if that problem causes discomfort or suffering to her children. It is no wonder that mothers are probably the world’s greatest inventors. This month, in celebration of mother’s day, we look at neat and brilliant inventions and creations by moms. Some mom-inventions have grown to be big brands (such as the brassiere and the windshield wiper) and some are not so widely known. Some mother’s have created great things through personal frustration, pain and even loss. We celebrate all mom-creations...big or small starting from our very own, Alice Kibagendi, founder of the AMARA INIATIVE >>>
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WHEN A MOTHER SUFFERS THE LOSS OF A CHILD, SHE WANTS NOTHING BUT TO HELP OTHER MOTHERS NOT GO THROUGH THE PAIN AND ANGUISH THAT THEY WENT THROUGH.
When ALICE lost her 6 month old to chocking, she took matters in her own hands and founded AMARA INITITAVE (named after her late daughter) to provide first aid and accident management skills to parents and care-givers alike. Alice tells us her story...
The motivation to start the Amara Initiative was born out of the realization that there is a general lack of knowledge on Basic First Aid skills in society An accident occurred on the 2nd of March 2012 at around 7.00pm as my six (6) month old daughter was being fed. The nanny who was feeding baby Amara did not know what to do when she realized that the baby was chocking, she screamed and run out of the house with the baby in hand and gave the baby to the first person she met who also did not know what to do. Fortunately a nurse passing by noticed the commotion from the crowd that was building up in the estate; she quickly took a hold of the baby and started to perform CPR as baby was not responding. Despite the efforts of the nurse, Amara was pronounced dead on arrival at Gertrudes Children’s Hospital. It is easy for a parent to blame the nanny in this kind of situation, what we need to realize is that accidents happen and that they can happen to anybody.
>>> EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
30 work place, in the streets and we need to be prepared. One never knows where danger larks.
Amara Initiative conducts trainings on safety. The main focus is on basic first aid that targets parents and care givers. I have come to appreciate that basic first aid is wide and detailed, it requires skill and concentration. The professionals teach that there is a way to handle a chocking infant differently from a child over one year old which is also different from way one would handle a chocking adult or expectant mother.
BE What do you then say to the mother whose baby chokes to death? Adults have choked on food and died, we need to realize that this is an accident and that there is something that we can do for any death that can be termed “preventable�. Through this initiative it is my desires to have every member of society acquire knowledge on Basic First Aid because accidents can happen anywhere- at home, at school, at the EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
PREPARED!
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32 There are certain practices that we have become accustomed to without knowing that they cause more harm than good. The training seeks to teach caregivers preventive as well as accident management skills. Accident Prevention and House Safety. Basic Incident Management Procedures. Assessment for Injuries and medical emergencies Unconscious baby Management Resuscitation skills Respiratory Emergencies • Choking • Asthma • Drowning • Croup Shock and Bleeding Burns and Scalds Broken bones • Poisoning • Fever and seizures • Dehydration (Diarrhoea and Vomiting) Its our pride and joy to hear success stories that have resulted from our trainings. A lady called Jackline contacted the Amara Initiative to inform us that she was able to administer first aid to her daughter who was choking. We’ve had countless parents calling back to appreciate the initiative for training their nannies because they are now more knowledgeable. Amara initiative would like to reach everybody in society through CDs, posters, books, stickers, short videos and any other media. We are in the process of translating a basic first aid handbook in to easy to understand Swahili. EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
CALENDER OF EVENTS Training will be held on July 5th, September 6th and November 1st 2014 Amara Initiative conducts trainings in homes and at institutions on request
+254718011996 +254737751115
amarainitiative
info@amarainitiative.co.ke
www.amarainitiative.co.ke
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cool bathroom inventions by moms
TP SAVER Invented by Tamara Monosoff, the TP Saver is a nifty invention that prevents children from rolling out and thereby wasting toilet paper. The TP saver is a simple plastic gadget fitted with elastic which works by latching tight onto the toilet paper making it hard for a child to unroll. EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
TINKLE TARIf you have sons, you’ll love this little invention. No more unsightly sprinkling on the toilet seat. These flushable targets are excellent potty training aids for boys. Tinkle Targets are paper targets which when dropped in the toilet bowl become fun aids for boys learning to use the toilet.
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STEP N WASH
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Every mom has had to hoist their child up to the sink to wash their hands...if you haven’t, you will. Joi Sumpton a mom of two invented the first self-retracting step for public toilets that enables children to reach the sink safely and easily.
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Unsatisfied with the variety of wipes in the market, mom inventors, Julie Pickens and Mindee Doney set out to create a range of saline wipes for blocked and stuffy kiddy noses. The wipes are designed to dissolve mucus caused by colds, allergies etc. They are extra soft and do not cause redness nor dry the skin around the nose.
...who run the world??? MOMS! EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
35 BOOK SUGGESTIONS
Not yet an inventor? ‌.Try these titles for inspiration.
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with Koki Mutua of Easy Vanilla... EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
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Name of company Easy Vanilla (for goodness cakes!) Company contacts
EM: Please tell us a little about yourself?
KM: I am a home-based baker; a hotelier by training but baking got the best of me. EM: How long have you been in business:
KM: I’ve been in business since 2009. EM: Tell us about Easy Vanilla:
+254721124667
https:// www.facebook.com/ easyvanilla
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
KM: We are a small bakery that specializes with desert cakes. We pride ourselves on making soft delicate cakes for all occasions. We also do customized cakes for corporate functions and special occasions. EM: What motivated you to start your business?
KM: I have always had a passion for baking; I’ve never imagined myself doing anything else. My family is a major fan of my cakes.
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“ Don’t be afraid to start small and always follow your passion. Do what you love”
EM: What does self employment mean to you and what benefits are you enjoying being your own boss?
KM: Self employment to me means I am the determining factor to my success. I decide if I will succeed or fail. The biggest advantage of running my own business is that I am flexible when it comes to raising my son. I’m hands on with him, thanks to me being the boss at work. EM: Take us through your journey into entrepreneurship from when you decided to go into business to where you are now.
KM: Before I had my son I was working and going to school… a hotelier knows how tough the working hours in hospitality can be. So after my son was born, the thought of leaving him to work odd hours was really not an option for me. So I decided do something that would suit us both financially and time wise. I started baking in my mom’s kitchen. She had this amazing Kenwood mixer and two ovens. EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
Initially I used mom’s sufurias and mixing bowls then I got an oven and that’s how Easy Vanilla came to be. I attempted to go large scale at some point but quickly discovered how young the company was for such a huge step, I promptly stuck to the original plan – desert cakes! EM: Give us a glimpse into a typical day in your life...
KM: I’m up by 6:00 am, I say my prayers and prepare for work. I also prepare my son for school and leave the house by 7:30am to get him to school on time. I then head out to drop off orders as I pick supplies for new orders. I’ll also make orders for supplies that are not available. I’m back to the house by noon to start on new orders. At 3:00 pm, I pick my son up from school; we do our homework, dinner & baths (all this is done between baking). By about 10:00pm, I may be done with the day’s orders.
EM: How much in terms of capital did you start your business with?
KM: I started with my laptop; I used my kitchen as work space and my personal car to run errands and make deliveries.
EM: Self employment can be tough, what keeps you going everyday?
KM: Self employment is tough indeed but it’s very fulfilling I must say. I love what I do passionately and every morning I wake up excited to bake. I get so excited staying up late finishing cakes and I feel great when I finish an order. EM: What challenges have you encountered so far?
KM: The biggest challenge in my business is maintaining a standard and quality control. I feel frustrated when someone calls us wanting a cheap cake like so and so’s bakery yet they came to us because of the quality we offer.
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EM: If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?
KM: If I could do it all over again, I’d change nothing! I have been growing nice and steady.
EM: Did you once encounter fear? Fear of starting out, fear of failure and how did you handle it?
KM: Initially, I feared how people would react to my products, but after the repeat and referral business from the same people over and over, I gained confidence and jumped all in.
EM: How do you differentiate yourself from the competition?
KM: The edge I have over my competitors is my recipes. I’ve created recipes that are amazing! When you eat a cake I have baked, you will immediately taste the difference. My ingredients are also the finest around. I use butter, imported chocolate and apply advanced techniques to produce cakes I’m proud of. EM: What would you say to someone who desires to go into business but feels stuck, scared or unsure how to go about it?
It starts with baby steps. Do not have over expectations. A business is like a baby, you have to grow it. Nice and easy. EM: What is the secret to your success?
KM: I’m not yet where I want to be but I feel it will be soon… I will tell you then what it will have taken to get me there! EM: In your view, how important is attitude and a positive mindset in entrepreneurship?
KM: A positive Attitude is paramount!! You have to want it and want it bad as an entrepreneur! You have to believe in yourself more than anybody else because the business is dependent on you!
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
“You have to believe in yourself more than anybody else because the business is dependent on you”
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OR Call : +254 721 944 371 OR SMS: +254 703 726 838.
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
44 SPECIAL A
MOTHER’S DAY BY: SUSAN KIMANZI
t
This is one of my all time chicken recipes. The chicken is braised and the end result is an extremely flavourful and delicious meal. Chicken cacciatore is an Italian dish of chicken braised in a tomato-based sauce and often includes wild mushrooms. It is frequently referred to as "hunter style" as the word cacciatore means "hunter" in Italian. I don't know the source of the name, but someone mentioned that if a hunter came home empty-handed, his wife would kill a chicken for the meal instead. Ingredients 1 ½ Kilo chicken, cut into pieces 2 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 1 cup thinly sliced onions 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced or minced Salt and freshly ground pepper 1/3 cup white wine 2 cups peeled and chopped, firm ripe tomatoes (or canned plum tomatoes in their juice) EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
Preparation Method Rinse chicken and pat dry. Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium heat, add the onions and cook until translucent, stirring occasionally. Push the onions to the side. Season the chicken pieces with salt on all sides. Add the chicken pieces, skin-side down. Cook until the chicken skin is golden brown, then turn pieces over and brown on the other side. Add the garlic to the pan and cook a minute more. Sprinkle pepper over the chicken. Add wine and simmer until reduced by half. Add the tomatoes, lower the heat and cover the skillet with the lid slightly ajar. Cook the chicken on a low simmer, turning and basting from time to time. Cook for about 40 minutes until the thighs are very tender and the meat is almost falling off the bones. If the stew starts to dry out, add a couple tablespoons of water. Recipe Courtesy: http://simplyrecipes.com
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… The EntrepreneuHER Magazine caught up with IRENE MUKONYORO, the PRODUCTION MANAGER , Buni Media – the producers of the XYZ Show for a little chat about life, work , family and passion.
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
E: Tell us a little about the XYZ Show and how it came to be... IM: XYZ is a political satire, carried through the medium of life size puppets, which potrays the various political and social newsmakers of the day particularly in Kenya and Africa by extension. It is now in its 9th season and with over 100 episodes aired. The show has been offering leading commentary on issues political and social while lampooning the corrupt and enemies of rude governance. The Show was launched in May 2009 as the result of the successful partnership between co-producers ‘Gado’ and Marie Lora-Mungai.
EntrepreneuHER: Tell us a little about yourself Irene: My name is Irene Mukonyoro-Luswata, I am married and a mother of two; a girl – Maya, 5 and a boy – Myles who turns 3 in June. I am the Production Manager at Buni Media Limited, well known for The XYZ Show (airing on NTV every Sunday at 7.30 p.m) and the online Nigerian version called Oga At The Top. EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
On a study trip to Paris in 2003, Gado visited the set of “Les Guignols de l’Info”, or the “News Puppets”, a spoof newscast featuring latex puppets that is very popular in France. To Gado, it was immediately obvious that the same concept would not only be a huge success in Kenya, but could also have an important social impact by exposing, with humor, the rampant corruption and mismanagement of the country. Gado shopped the idea around to the TV stations here in Kenya but many had trouble understanding the concept. In 2005, he managed to send a sculptor to France for training where he learnt how to work
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The brains behind The XYZ Show Pictures courtesy of www.bunimedia.co.ke
with the materials such as foaming latex and curing agents. The sculptor came back with a fully finished puppet of President Mwai Kibaki which is actually what we use to date. To cut the long story short, in 2009 May, the first Episode of The XYZ Show aired. EM: Is a Production Manager the Same as a Producer? IM: No, they are not the same. The Producer is often the first person to attach to the project and the last person to leave; taking the project through development, doing the initial budgets, raising finance and then controlling the hiring of the creative team. A Producer, basically look at the production from a business point of view. The Production Manager makes the work of the Producer easier by running the day to day activities of the production; this involves hiring of crew and equipment, negotiating rates, ensuring the production is on schedule, running as per budget etc. However in real life these roles can be played by either position depending on who is available. EM: Did you always know you wanted to work in media production? IM: I actually wanted to be a lawyer, but I remember after high school being taken to KIMC (Kenya Institute of Mass Communication). Back then it was really hard to join but we got admission however, for one reason or another, I ended up doing
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
Co-founder and Executive Chairman Godfrey (GADO) Mwampembwa provides business and creative leadership to Buni. He is the Creator and Producer of The XYZ Show, Africa's first puppet political satire.
Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Marie Lora-Mungai is responsible for establishing and leading the Group's development and creative strategy. She is also a writer and Executive Producer on Africanism 101, a series of in -depth satirical documentaries on major socio-political issues that touch Kenya today.
48 Accounts and Business Administration (ABE) which I must say was a smart move because these courses have played a major role in my current position.
“I knew
EM: How did you come to join the industry? In 2003, I was called for an interview as an Administrator/ Accounts Assistant at The Mediae Company (known for Makutano Junction, Know Zone), a year later I got a call and was told that I got the position – which was good for me because I had gone back to school to finish my Diploma in Business Administration. I found out that they were starting Makutano Junction and I joined as the Production Manager, a role I played for 5 Seasons and later became the Producer for 6 Seasons . Most of my training, I learnt on the job .We got training by BBC – UK personnel. After I left Mediae, I actually had no intentions of working in Media again (now when I think about it, I must have been crazy because I had been in the industry for 8 years) so I made a pact with God that He should give me a job in accounting but if I got one in Media, I would know that it is a sign from Him that its where I’m meant to be and in return would enroll in a Media school.
then, that I’d found a home”
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
I shared these thoughts with my mum on her hospital bed and she told me that God would direct me and to leave it all to Him, and that is exactly what I
did. A week later I got a call from Gado, met him, we had a chat and I was to join XYZ team a few days later but unfortunately my mum passed on but she knew I got the job and I remember her urging me to go back to school. I am currently at University of Nairobi a Bachelors Degree in Broadcast Production. It is sad that she never lived to see where I am at the moment but it feels good to know that she offered supported. One other thing that made me realize that Buni Media was the place for me is that after I shared news about my mum’s passing on, Gado actually called to ask if we needed financial assistance. I was so shocked considering that I had not even started working and here was my boss to be was offering financial assistance, I knew then, that I’d found a home.
EM: How do you balance the hard hours with family and social life? IM: This is the most difficult thing for me especially when the show is in season. My schedule is very tight and I have lost touch with most of my friends but I try to catch up when I can. I work from 7.00 a.m. to atleast 5.30 p.m. if not later, I then go to school from 5.30 to 8.30 p.m., at times I have classes on Saturdays upto 2 p.m. I have to find time for my kids, husband and some “me time”. I make sure I call home to talk to the kids just before I enter class and Sunday is usually my day with the family. Any free time I get I try to split it between my social life and family…..very tough though. I prefer doing impromptu meet ups with my friends because planning does not work and I end up feeling bad because numerous times I have called to cancel. Once in a while we will have a spa day with the girls, and I love doing drives just to unwind. EM: What are the highlights of your job? IM: There are quite a number but The XYZ Show being awarded the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Award as the best Television Series in 2013 was quite an achievement. Every shooting day when
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the Director pronounces the words, “It’s a Wrap”, comes with a sigh of relief. Watching the episode go on air and the people around you appreciating the end result is quite fulfilling especially because most people do not understand what it takes to get there. EM: What are the challenges? IM: The materials we use in making the puppets have to be imported i.e. the latex and curing agents which is a costly affair.
This also means that we must have latex in store in case we need to make a puppet as a matter of urgency. Due to the nature of the show (current affairs), we sometimes do not have enough time to do preproduction for an episode unlike other shows where you have a script for weeks, if not months in advance. We get our final script on Sunday evening, do voice recording on Monday, shoot on Tuesday and Wednesday, edits on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and the
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show airs on Sunday. There is simply no time for reshoots .This means we have to always be on our toes and give our best. EM: Share with our readers some tips to survive the cut throat entertainment industry IM: Believe in yourself and your principles, there is a reason why you are where you are so let that be your focus. Do not let negative energy get to you, as you can imagine just like any other industry, people will try to discourage you but at the end of the day what matters is your attitude. Network with people in the industry as more often than not, people get employed through referrals. It is important to be disciplined; this includes keeping time, doing your job as required, following protocol etc. There is also self training as things are constantly changing, have a hunger for knowledge in the particular field you are interested in. EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
Most people are freelancers hence it is crucial to work as a brand so as to maintain a good identity and to make you stand out from the rest. EM: Any advice to young women who would like to join the industry in various capacities? IM: Media is such an interesting platform, if you have the passion, go for it, be ready to start from the bottom as this is where you probably get a clearer picture as to where you want to venture. Nothing comes easy. Be ready to knock on many doors before you get your breakthrough. Beware of sexual exploitation with people promising your roles in whatever field, and these can come from people below or above your grade. At the end of the day you have your dignity to maintain especially if you want to be successful and to survive in this industry.
51 Lastly, be open minded in terms of being all rounded; for instance if you do make-up, try to dabble in wardrobe/costume as well, maybe props, production too this will give you a sharper edge. EM: Share with the readers the most memorable experience at your job? IM: One of the most memorable experiences was being featured on The Bench with Jeff Koinange, as well as meeting Martha Karua on set! EM: Which is your all time favorite XYZ episode IM: I have favorites in each season; for the current season ( 9) I loved Episode 3 where we featured the Gay Bill in Uganda and the skit had President Museveni of Uganda as the clerk, prosecutor and judge, it was well executed. I also love any skit with Mwaniki and the Veteran’s Café which is a new segment. The segment features Former Presidents Moi and Kibaki and their comrades -Mugabe, Museveni etc.
WANNA BECOME A PRODUCTION MANAGER SOMEDAY? Here is a list of responsibilities that will fall under your docket Before production
Involved in various meetings with the Producers, writers and some heads of departments to examine the scripts. Breakdown script and prepare a provisional schedule with the 1st AD and Producer. Consult with various Heads of Departments to estimate materials needed and assist in preparation of draft budget.
Negotiate, approve and arrange rental or purchase of all production materials, equipment and supplies.
Oversee search for locations and liaise with local authority and police regarding permits and other permissions.
Assist Producer to interview and select crew and suppliers to meet production requirements
EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014
During Production
Control production expenditure.
Ensure all bills are paid and that tasks are delegated properly.
Make changes to schedule or budgets as required and ensure all changes are brought to attention of all relevant personnel.
Prepare weekly cost reports.
Liaise with 1st Assistant Director on set to ensure that the production schedule and departmental budgets are on target.
Best of luck!!!
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Check out our website: www.entrepreneuher.co.ke EntrepreneuHER, MAY 2014