The decision to build-to-sell so many affordable homes with a price range within GHs120,000 and GHs1,000,000
How did you get into business?
My entrepreneurial journey started at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (KNUST) when I was doing medicine, after spending a year at the University of Ghana doing biological science and a return from a UK vacation work abroad after Legon. From here, I then went into working in computing and this was great for learning all the ins and outs of the system. I then took an entrepreneurial leap and launched my own registered business whilst still in uni.
What's been the biggest learning curve on your entrepreneurial journey?
I would say learning what to say no to. Every start-up guide says this is important, but it’s only when you live it and practice it that you understand what it really means. Sometimes you even have to turn down clients or investors if they are not right for you to help your business grow.
How have you assembled the right team around you?
We look to hire the best talent. For key roles we look for years of experience. It's great to have people who have been around the block and are well connected - there are plenty of hungry folks out there!
Have you noticed any personality traits in yourself that have helped you excel in business?
I am of a productivity freak. Time is my greatest asset and not money. Occasionally it can frighten some employees and clients, however, so I am a little more mindful of that now.
What would you be doing if you weren't running The DCANS Group Limited?
We’re supposed to be so singularly focused on our businesses that we can’t consider any alternative reality. However, I would probably be practising as a medical doctor (what I was originally trained for).
Being a black entrepreneur, what has been your biggest challenge so far and what would your advice be for the future black entrepreneurs out there?
Well, discrimination is always there. Interestingly I have experienced it equally from both my fellow blacks and whites. I think it operates at a sub-conscious level, so it is more like a cognitive bias.
However, the beauty of having your own company is that you can choose exactly who you work with. The people we work with, whether clients, investors, employees or suppliers, are all open-minded and inspirational people.
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BSc. Biological Science, University of Ghana (I) || BSc. Human Biology (KNUST) || MBChB Medicine & Surgery, KNUST-KATH (I)
Founder, DCANS Developments Ghana || Founder, DCANS Properties Ghana || Founder, DCANS FX.
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