The Mayaronian with a Vision

Hey entrepreneurians and Mayaronians here is a collaborative effort by Latifa Lambkin and myself highlighting an entrepreneur from Mayaro. Enjoy...

"My name is Nathan Thomas and I am the proud owner of Ice Shak. I came up with this name because it reminds me of where I came from and the family I grew up with. I am from Mayaro but I live in San Fernando. My parents also are from Mayaro and they were born into a family of ice makers/sellers. I grew up with my parents living from hand to mouth, selling ice from the old red fridge that we had bought from my Aunt in Pierreville which borders Mayaro. That fridge was so noisy we had to put it in the back. Growing up in Mayaro was fun for me as a child, doing what boys do best. Playing football, fishing and all of that, but times were not so easy back then either. I have seven siblings before me so you know things were hard for me. I looked at my parents work so hard to provide for all of us and I said I have to be the one to step out. And I literally did that. I did not get an education but I knew I could count money very well and I could make and sell ice as well, so that is what I did. I took the family business a little further. I saw myself doing more than they did and watch me now. I have my own place, my own business and I am very happy. I know to a lot of people what I have may seem small and insignificant but if I tell you, them same people does come and buy my ice."
Congratulations on your success Mr Thomas, big or small. In the world of entrepreneurship you are making a contribution, you are significant.

South vendor who buys ice from Mr Thomas

A Success Story that rivals many

SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR & SEXUALITY

Looking at the impact gays and lesbians have made in today’s society, it is really a step in the direction of accepting the choices many make.  My colleague Akeme Clarke-Abdullah and I decided on zeroing-in on one such gay individual, who has really stamped their mark in Trinidad, proving that they can be a force to be reckoned with, no matter their sexual orientation.  This individual, who was birthed as a male, and now goes by the name of Mrs. Jowelle De Souza; is a person who defied all odds and storms which came her direction,. Making a bold step, of not only choosing to love and be with someone of the same sex, he was the first Trinidadian to take a total sex change, going under the knife and changing himself to have the features of a female.
Jowelle did not only come under heavy scrutiny and criticism from nationals of T&T, but was ridiculed and laughed at when on the streets. Though much negative comments were thrown toward Jowelle, it saw her taking everything in strides, and becoming the success she is today. Known for being an animal rights activist, she has a big heart, caring for abandoned and stray dogs, and hoping that people would become more educated on dealing with animals that are sick, and not abandon them on the wayside. She was interviewed on numerous occasions on national television, encouraging people to be more caring and show compassion for the animals. Not only this, but Jowelle is a well known hairstylist, located on Independence Avenue, San Fernando. You can see her newly renovated building, decorated in bright beautiful colours with lots of flair when driving by. Her work is immaculate and speaks for itself, proving to others that anything is possible when you put their mind to it, while fusing it with her passion. Jowelle’s clientele consist of prominent ministers, business women and men, doctors, as well as any individual wanting to get that fresh new modern style for their weddings, graduation, dinners, parties etc. A very hard worker, Jowelle arrives early to ensure she is able to facilitate her clients who want early appointments and leaves late for the ones who can only make it after work. Jowelle’s work ethics show that sexual preference has nothing to do with becoming a successful entrepreneur; it’s all about hard work, dedication, commitment and supporting your cause.
Today, Jowelle embarks on a journey to “change San Fernando into the incredible city that it should be.” She is on the campaign trail to become the next Independent Councilor for San Fernando West, and is rallying support from the people of San Fernando to make this endeavour a success. Thus far, she has been receiving resounding responses and encouragement from individuals who have been backing her 100%. This is just another, of the many achievements that Jowelle has accomplished thus far. It is amazing to see the day has come, when a person’s sexual preference no longer became a factor in a person’s ability to be successful. Society is becoming more accepting; people are now making the effort to educate themselves on sexuality and preferences before passing judgment. Jowelle is just one of the many successful entrepreneurs who have a motivating story and we do wish her the best in all endeavours undertaken. Cheers to you Jowelle de Souza for being another beckon of hope for those who are struggling with a similar situation.

This one is for the "Little Man"

Good evening my fellow entrepreneurs, this blog is dedicated to the entrepreneur who we may see as small but still provides a valuable service to the community he/she may be operating in.

Introducing Mr. Joesingh of Jordan Hill Village via Princes Town. Mr Joesingh defines what it is to think outside of the box at his age. He was a laborer all his life and started planting a variety of produce behind his house, specifically for family use.

Now retired, he uses his knowledge and experience as a gardener to continue to not only provide for his family, but also to the community. His prices are reasonably low and his demeanor of friendliness very high. I personally tip my hat to this entrepreneur because without him on the scene now, I would not get my gorgeous and very tasty bananas.

*Name was changed

A Man with a Vision... A Man on Fire

As I look back at this interview my desire is that we all become entrepreneurs in our own rights, that we all think outside the box and keep on creating. Introducing to you Mr. Bertrand John aka

Heavenz Dzign.

    

 Me: What ignited the spark in you to start a new business venture or to make significant changes in an existing business? How did the idea for your business come about?

Heavenz: I started off as not entirely a business but a ministry (non-profit) to change persons and businesses within the Gospel to eradicate mediocre thinking. The Passion for design and professionalism soon became a business idea and soon after little by little I became zealous to go out on my own, especially when I saw as a designer when you work under an institution, you the individual is hardly ever recognized, so I knowing my strength, I decided to make a name for myself.

 Me: How do you find people to bring into your organization that truly care about the organization the way you do?

Heavenz: I can only do that through person who can understand the vision and care for other persons needs but themselves, I put my clients needs above mine, working to ensure their satisfaction, only when someone can understand and put to action the force of service in front then you know.

Mr John aka Heavenz Dzign

     Me: How important have good employees been to your success?

Heavenz: One hand cannot clap and a sea vessel cannot sail with out the sea, there most be coordination between to entities or more to achieve success or goal. It is a necessity to have good employees to enhance you, the vision, the journey and goal.

A business is only good as its people.

    Me:  What three pieces of advice would you give to college students who want to become entrepreneurs?

Heavenz: Think big

                 Know your Value, know your Worth

                 Believe in yourself because there is greatness in you

   Me: If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?

Heavenz: This is a good question, I would simple put structure in place first, think business firstly and not hustle. I would project where I will like to go in business as well as project where I want the business to carry me, see things first, plan first, structure first.

     Me: What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur?

    Heavenz:  Self will to ignite (determination)

                    Motivation

                   Hard work

     Me:   What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?

Heavenz: My failures were more in managing finances, keeping record of every sale and services coming out of my hands- Managing Finances and Proper Records mean more money J , this ensure you to see growth in your business and within youself.

      Me: How long do you stick with an idea before giving up?

Heavenz: I never give up, I allow the idea to give itself up on me, no ideas are entirely always bad, some which are downloaded into your thinking are for a specific time and season. Today’s idea may not be for this time (today) but it can surely worth you wild tomorrow. The richest person is a dead person as they die with multi-billion dollar IDEAS. Not one but many.

     Me:  How many hours do you work a day on average?

Heavenz: Haha this is funny almost never sleep.

       Me: Describe/outline your typical day?

Heavenz: My days hmmm lol... I get up – fine myself in front the machine, check my mails.

Ready myself (Shower & Brush Teeth lol ) and begin working – I spend almost the entire day working and conceptualizing, sometimes I miss Breakfast, lunch & dinner, when I eat that’s when I realize I am hungry. I am not encouraging you to do this and follow this pattern its bad. Its not good time management but this is how I started.

      Me: How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life?

Heavenz: It was tough, I could not sometimes meet all my monthly commitments- It took time away from them, even cause a lil separation but all that eventually changed when all hard word paid off.

     Me: What motivates you?

Heavenz: The thoughts of living a comfortable life, being a provider for my family by not just leaving a legacy but overall an inheritance, but in all honesty the best motivation comes from self motivation… will yourself to success, discouragement will come but hold ground to purpose and destiny. A success person is one who stands on rough waters.

      Me: How do you generate new ideas?

Heavenz: Spend some lonely and quite times thinking.

     Me: How far are you willing to go to succeed?

Heavenz: As far as it takes the wind to seize blowing.

      Me: What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?

Heavenz: My greatest fear can be failure but what is failure without trying and getting back on your feet and starting over. Like a old Mario Nintendo game you never accepted failure as you hurdled over obstacles to meet your goal, when your game was over you simply pressed start and tried again.

      Me: What are your ideals?

Heavenz: Creating Perfection & Creating Standard

     Me: How do you define success?

Heavenz: Success by me if defined by your customer’s satisfactory. Success comes knocking with every smile and gratitude from your clients as they determine the growth and success of your business.  A bad reputation and negative words can break your business.

    Me:  What is the best way to achieve long-term success?

Heavenz: To have long term plans with long term structure.

     Me: Is your company profitable or what is your profit for last year?

Heavenz: Yes the company is profitable.

     Me: Where did your organization's funding/capital come from and how did you go about getting it? How did you obtain investors for your venture?

Heavenz: Personally speaking your greater investor is yourself, we all need capital/funding to get off the ground, but I started with nothing, a laptop and my Aunt’s coffee or dining table.

     Me:  How do you build a successful customer base?

Heavenz: By targeting those who’s in need of your services, eg. I do Advertising, I know at some point everyone in business need something done sooner or later, some or many may have there own designers, art board etc. but it does not stop me from making myself or my business known to persons.  The directory is my play ground to find potential clients and build a network. Social Media is the place for business, anyone who is getting into business should work more on social networks than play. Just my opinion.

      Me: How did you decide on the location for your business?

Heavenz: You should think of the demographic of your location. Who here in this location is in need of your services and beneficial toy your growth. The Environment should be acceptable and also profitable. Rituals Coffee shop you may find on the frontline or busy street corner not in the drag mall in Port-of-Spain capital.

     Me: Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?

Heavenz: No there isn’t.

      Me: If you could talk to one person from history, who would it be and why?

Heavenz: Sorry I don’t follow much persons in history.

     Me: Who has been your greatest inspiration?

Heavenz: David Airey

       Me: What book has inspired you the most? (OR What is your favorite book?)

Heavenz: The Bible of course! As a man thinketh.

     Me: What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?

Heavenz: Being controller of your own time and destiny.

      

 Me:To what do you most attribute your success? What would say are the five key elements for starting and running a successful business?

  Heavenz:  Determination

                   Persistence

                    Structure

                    A Heart for Service

                    Loyalty

     Me: What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

Heavenz: To see your business highlighted as being a sponsor for major event.

Me: What do you feel is the major difference between entrepreneurs and those who work for someone else?

Heavenz: Easy you can define your destiny rather than someone define it for you.

      Me: How do you go about marketing your business? What has been your most successful form of marketing?

Heavenz: Word of Mouth & Facebook has been the most successful marketing elements I Used.

     Me: What kind of culture exists in your organization? How did you establish this tone and why did you institute this particular type of culture?

Heavenz: I will say a culture of I can and I am… the I am Factor culture is relevant as it is taken from biblical scripture. I am!!! The culture of being self motivated to speak into ones self by saying I AM SUCCESS, I AM WEALTH, I AM BUSINESS… you are who you say you are.

       Me: In one word, characterize your life as an entrepreneur.

Heavenz: Hardworking

       Me: What are some of the biggest mistakes you've made?

Heavenz: My biggest mistake will be again not have proper financial management

         

Me: How can you prevent mistakes or do damage control?

Heavenz: LOL having an accountant like Emerson Abdullah LOL

      Me: What are your hobbies? What do you do in your non-work time?

Heavenz: Write music, spend time in studio recording

       Me: What makes you happy?

Heavenz: Seeing others happy and music lol

       Me: What sacrifices have you had to make to be a successful entrepreneur?

Heavenz: Time and Time

       Me:  Excluding yours, what company or business do you admire the most?

Heavenz: I admire mostly foreign companies and business men Like David Airey & Joel Grimes

         Me: Where you see yourself and your business in 10 years? 20 years?

Heavenz: Owning my own Company Building and supplying more and greater services, as for me being financially free.

Mr John also delves in other streams of income such as his newly acquired business known as Kreative Wall Art.

Check out his album via this link:

http://s48.photobucket.com/user/akemecabdullah/library/Heavenz%20Dzign%20Visionary

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Keep STEPPING Y'all

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Good morning my Entrepreneurs. This blog is truly inspiring as it takes us into the heart of a young, blossoming and bearing fruit individual. Let me introduce to you Mrs. Jimmasui Wright, owner of Step. this business delves into exotic shoes and bags, the things that we ladies love. Entrepreneurs, take note of the answers to my questions as it is both practical and inspiring.

           Me: Hello Mrs. Wright. How are you?Let me thank you in advance for taking the time to share your business savy and your know how with me and also future entrepreneurs.

     

     Jimmasui: Call me Jimmasui and I am happy to help.

     Me:What ignited the spark in you to start a new business venture or to make significant changes in an existing business? How did the idea for your business come about?

Jimmasui: Well my business is SHOES. We women loooooove shoes. My issue was, I am a tall woman with large feet so there was not much cute shoes in my size, so I started a business providing tall/big women with cute shoes that will fit!!! 

        Me: What three pieces of advice would you give to college students who want to become entrepreneurs?

Jimmasui: Be different, be practical. There are so many untapped markets out there.

      Me: If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?

Jimmasui: Nothing. Every experience has added to my success story, which is still being written.

       Me: What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful entrepreneur?

Jimmasui: 1.       Planning/Organization 2. Marketing 3. Writing

      Me:   What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?

Jimmasui: Small thinking. I will think bigger and better.

      

     Me:  How long do you stick with an idea before giving up?

Jimmasui: If I truly believe that my idea is great I will stick with it until

 it works.

       Me: What motivates you?

Jimmasui: Being able to leave a legacy for my children.

      Me: How do you generate new ideas?

Jimmasui: Prayer and Research.

        Me:How far are you willing to go to succeed?

Jimmasui: As far as I need to with my integrity and character in tact.

 Me:  What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?

Jimmasui: I don’t allow fear to take root in my life. It is a disease.

         Me: How do you define success?

Jimmasui: Accomplishing the goals you have set in the time frame you have set them for.

        Me:What is the best way to achieve long-term success?

Jimmasui: Plan and stay true to yourself.

         Me: How do you build a successful customer base?

Jimmasui: Social Media

        Me: Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?

Jimmasui: No. We are all different and what may work for me may not work for others.

        Me: If you could talk to one person from history, who would it be and why?

Jimmasui: Colonel Sanders. It just glean from his wisdom on having THE  largest franchise in the world!

         Me: Who has been your greatest inspiration?

Jimmasui: Women all over the world and my feet.

        Me: What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?

Jimmasui: Having my name on something that is ALL MINE!!

And that's Step by J Wright.

Check out Step's album at this link: http://s48.photobucket.com/user/akemecabdullah/library/Step%20by%20J%20Wright

Charlene's Styleline: The story continues

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  Ms. Charlene Palmer is one of the best seamstresses that South Trinidad has and is also the most loving person you would ever meet. As we talked about her business and who she is as an entrepreneur, she constantly smiled and I felt right at home with her. these are a few of the questions I asked.

     Me: What ignited the spark in you to start a new business venture or to make significant changes in an existing business? How did the idea for your business come about?

     

     Charlene: I had a part time job and money was limited. So I started two business just to see which one will take off the most. Catering cakes and pastry and Fashion Design. Both took off. But went into Fashion Design.

      

      Me: What three pieces of advice would you give to college students who want to become entrepreneurs?

     Charlene:Three pieces of advice. Be excited to try new things,  Sacrifice = Success and Love what you do.

      Me: Excluding yours, what company or business do you admire the most?

     Charlene: I totally admire Claudia Pegus and Ecliff Elie. They are the best designers to me in Trinidad right now.

      Me: Where you see yourself and your business in 10 years? 20 years? 

Designed by Charlene

      Charlene: In the next ten years I will have stores just like what Radical Designs did years ago.

     Me: If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently? 

     Charlene: If i had to start over there are some things i would do differently. I have had some clients since 1999. And the formula is that I am always willing to go the distance with what they want but also offer

something different, a one of a kind piece.

Creation by Charlene


Take a look at this video and enjoy the show.I hope you get some advice from entrepreneur Magaret Islander

Introducing Charlene's Styleline

Good morning fellow entrepreneurs, today I want to take this time to highlight a successful and prominent Southerner who has made it her business to make others beautiful. Introducing Ms Charlene Palmer, owner of Charlene's Styleline.

Charlene Palmer hails from San Fernando and absolutely loves doing what she does and might I say she does it exceptionally well. She has recently completed a course from YTEPP, Fabric Design and has her eyes set on pursuing another course in this field. Charlene is a member of Empowerment Temple International and enjoys many other activities other than the one she is renowned for.


Stay tuned for Part 2 of the story of Charlene's Styleline

Applique done by Charlene Palmer


Here's a link to this entrepreneur's album on Photobucket
http://s48.photobucket.com/user/akemecabdullah/library/Charlene%20StyleLine