19 May 2024

A positive and forward-thinking mindset can lead to increased creativity, confidence, willingness to push boundaries and ultimately propelling entrepreneurial ventures to new heights of success.

This was said by Human Entrepreneur founder, Mr Willem Gous at a transformative workshop which was organised by UNICEF in collaboration with the Botswana Innovation Hub in Maun recently.

Mr Gous introduced the entrepreneurship mindset mastery theory that aimed to equip entrepreneurs with the tools and insights needed to overcome mental barriers that hindered their path to success.

“You do not need funding to kick start your business and there is no barrier standing in your way to the success of your business, it is all in the mind and how you navigate things,” he said.

He also encouraged a growth mindset where one needed to embrace a learning attitude to see challenges as chances to grow and improve, saying such thinking helped one to innovate and see mistakes as steps forward in their business endeavours.

He further highlighted the importance of perspective, potency and persistence when running a business, thus encouraged participants to reflect on their beliefs, attitudes and behaviours that may be limiting their potential and explore new ways of approaching challenges and opportunities.

For her part, UNICEF education specialist, Ms Leseka Mokokomane said the workshop was designed to lead thought-provoking discussions and activities designed to challenge conventional thinking patterns and inspire a shift towards a more proactive and innovative mindset for entrepreneurs in Maun.

“The workshop stands as a networking opportunity for entrepreneurs and it is set to foster collaboration as well as give insights of how to overcome barriers that really aren’t barriers when looked at with a different perspective,” Ms Mokokomane said.

Botswana Innovative Hub programmes manager, Mr Obakeng Segwagwe said such workshops aimed to diversify Botswana’s economy and empower entrepreneurs.

“This has given entrepreneurs the opportunity to reflect on their businesses as to what they are doing wrong and how to make their businesses profitable within a five week period without external funding,” Mr Segwagwe said.

Entrepreneur and Straight Circle business owner, Mr Lesego Daman said the workshop provided a platform for entrepreneurs to break free from limiting beliefs and unlock their full potential for success as it addressed the critical need for mindset change and personal development. ENDs