What resources did you start with and how did you use them?
To start my blogsite Linda Afya I registered with the Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE) from where I got advice and guidelines on blogging. The advantage of blogging is that the blog can be run from anywhere as long as one has a computer and access to internet. That saved me from looking for office space as I was starting out. As the website progressed, I started working on the LindaAfya app. I wanted an app that all Kenyans could use to access medical care information at a go; such as ambulances, specialists, hospitals and medical insurances. I partnered with a software company and after several months of planning, creating and testing, the app was finally launched last month. It’s available on the Google Play store.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
By being active on social media platforms, engaging the relevant parties on matters health and through word of mouth.
What have been your biggest challenges so far with running your business and how do you overcome them?
My biggest challenge has been finances as Linda Afya requires a lot of adverting and maintaining an active online presence. I mitigated the challenge through regular interaction on social platforms both physical and online.
Tell us about your team.
Being a start-up business I currently do not have permanent employees so I outsource some of my services.
What do you love most about running your own business?
Independence. I have never been one to follow rules as I tend to feel like I’m suffocating but with running my business, I listen to my body physically, emotionally and spiritually and know what is needed to be done and when.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
Emails from people who have been encouraged or made aware of health issues that might have been affecting them really motivate me to keep on even when I feel discouraged. I also push myself whenever I want to give up. I try to be my own champion and cheer myself up bit by bit. I also take a break to recharge whenever I feel the need.
What’s the biggest lesson you have ever learned?
It is not an easy journey especially when starting out and you need to believe in yourself, lean on those closest to you and be very, very patient. I have also learnt when to drop extra luggage, especially people and situations that weigh me down.
How has entrepreneurship changed you?
I have learnt time and money management through distinguishing between needs and wants and how to prioritise my time.
If you could go back in time, what would you do differently?
I would have started Linda Afya a few years earlier and done more marketing.
Where do you see your business five years from now?
I believe in five years’ time, Linda Afya will have grown not just as a website but also have a health awareness magazine and podcast that will reach throughout and beyond East Africa. I foresee creation of booklets that will reach all school going children to create awareness at an early age, because through knowledge we are empowered.
How do you keep a good work/life balance?
As an entrepreneur one needs to adhere to a strict time management especially when work interferes with personal time. I try – still working on it – to learn to stop when working time is over and focus on me.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Be patient with yourself and never stop believing in yourself even though in tough times things seem impossible. Reach out to other entrepreneurs and always be willing to learn.
________________________________________
Did you enjoy this story? Post a comment below and on our Facebook page or Twitter #MKAZILindaAfya.
We like to hear from you.
Contact or follow Linda Afya
