In the bustling heart of Nairobi, amidst the competitive landscape of the technology sector, Frank Ojiambo, a former IT engineer, embarked on a daring entrepreneurial journey that transformed his life and the lives of many others.
Little did he know that his decision to leave a stable job at a local IT company would lead him to the helm of his own venture, the Computer-Springs Maintenance and Services Ltd.
In 2017, armed with nothing but a meager sum of Sh15,000 and a set of computer repairing tools, Frank founded his company.
His vision was clear: to provide top-notch diagnosis and repair services for computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones.
What set Computer-Springs apart was not just the services it offered, but Frank’s commitment to excellence and affordability.
The company quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality services at reasonable prices.
With a monthly net profit nearing a million shillings, Frank’s business acumen came to the fore.
“In a month the net profit can amount to Sh700,000, after paying the salaries of my nine employees, rent for our three shops which amounts to nearly Sh85,000 a month, and after deducting other expenses including transport,” notes Mr Ojiambo.
Frank’s success was not merely a result of his entrepreneurial spirit; it was also rooted in his philosophy of valuing his employees.
Unlike conventional corporate structures, Frank fostered an environment where everyone was a boss.
“Our company doesn’t have a bureaucratic structure where there’s a boss. Here, everyone is a boss and even when for instance a customer comes and demands to talk to the owner, we insist that everyone is a boss,” he explains.
Moreover, Frank went above and beyond in caring for his employees.
“I have given my employees a van which I fuel, to bring them to work and take them to their homes in the evening. Also, every day they get free lunch. This ensures that they work comfortably,” he notes, adding that proper treatment of employees is the key to success for any business.
However, Frank’s vision extended beyond profit margins.
He understood the power of knowledge and the impact it could have on the community.
To this end, he initiated free practical courses for financially disadvantaged youth interested in IT.
These courses not only equipped the participants with valuable skills but also encouraged self-employment, contributing to the growth of local entrepreneurship.
Despite financial constraints, he managed to secure a shop by convincing a landlord with his initial investment and sheer determination.
This initial leap of faith paid off, leading to a significant profit within the first month of operation.
His ability to make wise financial decisions and take calculated risks propelled his business forward.
Moreover, Frank’s commitment to building relationships was a pivotal factor in his success.
He maintained a strong bond with his clients, even after leaving his previous job. His reputation for exceptional service and honesty led to a loyal customer base, showcasing the power of positive word-of-mouth referrals.
His decision to invest in a fuel-consuming car early in his business journey was a testament to his willingness to step out of his comfort zone. This challenge kept him motivated, pushing him to find innovative solutions to financial hurdles.
Looking ahead, Frank envisions a future where he can give back to society on an even larger scale.
He plans to establish a foundation that offers free practical courses to empower the youth, enabling them to pursue self-employment and contribute meaningfully to society.
