Denzel Washington once said, “It takes talent to make money but it takes brains to keep it.”
Talent has become a vital component for generating revenue and creating businesses. While many of us may be talented in different ways we may not know how to generate money out of it.
There are people whose talent has taken them far. There are others also whose talents and hobbies have created their business opportunities.
Here is a story of how talent created a business opportunity for Sarah Jalade, a business entrepreneur from Kenya. Or as she would call herself a cake-preneur.
Start-up Story of Bakery Store
Sarah had always possessed a passion for baking. Her interest in the baking business started at an early age in her aunt’s kitchen.
Despite her love for baking, she pursued a career in finance. Attending the University of Nairobi, she wanted to get her degree and was eyeing for the big financial corporates after school.
During her time at the university, Sarah showcased her strong passion for baking which laid the foundation for her baking business. She would occasionally bake for her friends and family to boost her finances.
After graduating in 2018, she decided to try selling pastries while waiting for a corporate job.
She landed her first job later in 2019 at an accounting company. Even after securing a position in the accounting industry, the desire to turn her passion into a business lingered on.
Just like her mother, being self-employed and creating opportunities for other people was her dream. The business to pursue still being a question to ask for Sarah.
However, who needs business ideas when you have a talent? A talent that you not only enjoy but one that you can create a business opportunity out of.
Sarah Bakery Store
After years of contemplation, Sarah finally took the leap of faith. Independence is one of her strongest personalities, which drove her to take this risk.
With a plan to quit her job, she started focusing more on the baking business. As an entrepreneurial mind, she was aiming to quit only after establishing herself in the baking industry.
After years of baking as a side hustle, when Covid hit, she was one of the people who were laid out of the company.
With savings from her finance job, she invested US$1,000 into baking equipment. She then expanded her products beyond birthday cakes and wedding cakes into pastries.
Challenges
The beginning was not without its hurdles. Sarah faced skepticism doubting the sustainability of her venture.
Sometimes the business may work sometimes it might not. Your business failing after taking the risk can throw you off the scale, especially without a proper strategic plan.
Additionally, the competition in the food industry is fierce, with established bakeries dominating the market.
Business Progress
As Sarah’s Bakery gained traction, its reputation for delectable treats spread like wildfire. Her commitment to quality and customer satisfaction became the hallmark of her business.
With increasing demand, Sarah expanded her offerings, introducing custom cakes for special occasions.
She invested in staff training to ensure consistency and efficiency in production. Collaborations with local suppliers further strengthened her ties with the community and promoted sustainability.
As the business grew, Sarah faced the challenge of scalability. With limited space in her original storefront, she contemplated expansion.
After careful consideration and consultation with business advisors, she decided to open a second location in a bustling commercial district.
Bakery Expansion
The expansion brought its own set of challenges—securing funding, finding the right location, and replicating the charm of the original bakery.
The new location proved to be a success, attracting diverse customers.
Today, Sarah’s Bakery stands as a testament to her unwavering passion, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit.
What started as a humble endeavor has blossomed into a thriving enterprise, enriching the lives of customers and the community alike.
As Sarah reflects on her journey, she remains grateful for the opportunity to pursue her dreams and make a difference.
