It all started at the age of 7 years old. Most kids along with myself, were busy playing with toys and dreaming of becoming astronauts, fire fighters, basketball players or superheroes etc. But at the same time, I had a small, tiny vision. I knew, even at such a young age, that I wanted to become a rich, powerful, and successful businessman.
Growing up at the age of 7 I had my first job sweeping up sawdust for a woodshop worker. One day, while exploring my neighborhood, I stumbled upon a small woodshop, and I approached the woodshop worker and struck up a conversation with him. I expressed my interest in woodworking and offered him my help in any way I could.
Impressed by my enthusiasm, the woodshop worker saw an opportunity to mentor a young aspiring entrepreneur like me. He asked me if I would be willing to sweep up sawdust and keep the woodshop tidy. In return, he offered me $10 for just a few hours of work. My eyes lit up with excitement, and I eagerly agreed to the task. The woodshop worker informed me that he needed my parents' approval or consent for me to work at the woodshop. (you already know they said YES, ya boy was making that cheese) Not bad for a young 7-year-old entrepreneur.
At the age of 12, my entrepreneur mindset kicked in once again. I found myself drawn to specific clothing and shoe styles that my parents weren't willing to purchase for school. Instead of feeling discouraged, I harnessed my entrepreneurial mindset and devised a plan to earn money independently.
Given that my stepdad worked in a barbershop, I saw an opportunity to utilize my skills and contribute to the shop while generating income for myself. I approached my stepdad with the proposal to sweep up hair, empty trash, and clean the bathroom in the barbershop in exchange for payment.
Well, we already know what happened, my stepdad agreed to my plan, recognizing my eagerness to work and take responsibility for my own expenses. From that moment, I became an integral part of the barbershop's daily operations, ensuring cleanliness and tidiness throughout the establishment.
Not only did I accomplish my goal of earning $1,200 in cash for school clothes at the age of 12, but I also experienced the satisfaction and pride that come with financial independence. The appreciation for my hard work extended beyond my stepdad, as the other barbers in the shop recognized my dedication and effort. They rewarded me with additional tips for my services, further boosting my earnings.
While other kids were enjoying their summer vacations and leisure time, I diligently worked, focused on my goal. My determination paid off, as I managed to accumulate a substantial sum of $1,200 in cash by the end of the summer.
As I stood there, holding the bags of my newly acquired school clothes and shoes, a wave of accomplishment and self-reliance washed over me. The fact that I had earned the money myself, rather than relying on birthdays or holidays, filled my with a sense of pride and a realization of my own capabilities.
The clothes and shoes that I now possessed were not just items to wear but symbols of my hard journey and the freedom that comes with financial independence. Other 12-year-olds might have to wait for special occasions, but I had taken charge of my own destiny, proving to myself that hard work and determination could grant me the things I desired.
This defining moment sparked a fire within me. The taste of success and the freedom it brought ignited my entrepreneur ambitions even further. I knew in my heart that I wanted to be rich, successful, and ultimately be my own boss. The idea of shaping my own destiny, making a difference, and having control over my own life became my driving force.
From that point on, I embarked on a path of relentless pursuit, constantly seeking opportunities to grow, learn, and create. My entrepreneurial spirit burned brighter with each passing day. I devoured books, attended workshops and seminars, and sought mentors who could guide me on my journey to success.
Throughout my child, teenage years and into adulthood, I remained focused on my goal of achieving financial independence and becoming my own boss.
In 2023, fueled by a burning passion for clothing, I took a leap of faith and embarked on an extraordinary journey to bring Kongradulationz Clothing Brand to life. As an entrepreneur at heart, I knew that my love for fashion and the power of narratives could create something truly great.