29 Apr 2018

A youthful entrepreneur has lauded the Youth Development Fund (YDF) for continuing to change the lives of youth and turning them into stars.

Ms Fildah Baoki said in an interview that their ingenuity has been proved beyond reasonable doubt, and that they were capable of diversifing the economy in numerous ways and turning around the fortunes of the country.

She said employment creation through the programme could not be overemphasised, and she expressed her appreciation of the programme that saw many youth securing permanent employment.

She cited her printing and manufacturing business that she set up through YDF funding.

Ms Baoki noted that the business helped her to take care of her family and built her confidence to deal with every situation which came her way, saying she was able to turn her dream into reality.

“With P99 000 which I was given, I managed to purchase the necessary equipment to kick-start the business,” she explained.

Narrating her story, she said she had always been fascinated by the printing and manufacturing business hence she graduated with a degree in fashion and design at Limkokwing University.

She said the YDF was a heavenly sent angel to clear her path to ensure she ascends the ladder of success, and that in 2015 the ingenuity turned her dream into reality.

The business, situated in Kanye just a stone throw away from the national library, has a broad clientele because of her unique selling preposition and marketing strategy to attract customers from all walks of life.

The vibrant entrepreneur said her business specialised in manufacturing and printing different sport codes attire, protective clothing and t-shirt printing.

Ms Baoki said the secret to success was hard work, perseverance and excellence. She said she produced top quality clothing besides her skills and experience that worked wonders for her.

She also spoke about the importance of record keeping, pointing out that it was a yardstick to gauge whether the business was doing well and profitable.

However, she said high rentals were a hindrance to her business, but said it would not deter her from her goal.

She expressed gratification to the programme, noting that the government was committed to changing the lives of ordinary citizens for the better. ENDS