Young & hustling: How kids become entrepreneurs

When 13-year-old Charles Kandingua took on a challenge to earn N$1 000 in 100 days, he didn't wait for luck, he grabbed a broom and started cleaning yards.Today, his business, Charles Cleaning Services, is growing across Windhoek."Do something with your hands so you don't have to rely on your parents," Charles said, adding that he turned a problem into a plan, and a plan into profit.That's entrepreneurial thinking.Kandingua didn’t just earn money; he built skills. That’s what entrepreneurship is really about: spotting opportunities and turning them into ideas, products and services that solve real problems. It’s about managing money, thinking creatively, and solving problems. You’ll grow, connect, and build more than a business. You’ll build yourself.From idea to income“Start. Start small, start scared, start slow but just start”, says Ndinelago Shimuni, a young entrepreneur who has been selling products like ice lollies and desserts since the 4th grade. “Look around you and identify problems you can solve.”Start with what you know. “Identify what you’re good at, then be consistent and bold enough to turn that skill into a service,” says Dapewa Amwaalwa, founder of Giftnora Tutoring Academy. This could be baking, selling snacks, or washing cars. You could also try braiding hair, tutoring, or even basic graphic design. The key is to use your skills to solve problems or create value.Next, do basic market research: Who would pay for your service or product? What do they already spend on similar things? Then, draft a simple business plan. This should cover what you're offering, your pricing, who you're selling to, and how you’ll promote it. Once that’s ready, start small. Sell to friends or family, join local markets, or use social media to test your idea. Gather feedback and adjust as you go.Parents can play a big role, too. Not by running the business, but by enabling it. They can help teens evaluate ideas realistically, teach basic budgeting, or assist with setting up bank accounts and payment platforms. They can also offer transportation, supervision for public sales, or advice on dealing with customers.Every business starts small, but starting one teaches you skills that go far beyond making money. As Shimuni puts it, “I’ve learned that I am capable beyond what I could imagine.”

Young & hustling: How kids become entrepreneurs

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Republikein 2025-07-16

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Young & hustling: How kids become entrepreneurs

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