Speed dating for business interests
Mekenificent hosts N$etworthing events
“We can only grow by stimulating and promoting local innovations with meaningful growth. Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities, and that is exactly what Mekenificent’s ‘Expand your network’ is about,” says founder and chief executive Meke Namindo.She adds: “Thanks to the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB) I was one of the start-ups that was accorded exposure. As an entrepreneur, this type of exposure unlocked my innovative mind. After attending various meetings and organised meet and greets, I realised that as a country we have so much we have not explored when it comes to business, growth, innovation and investment.”
Meke says that the N$etworthing initiative is a platform designed to accord entrepreneurs, innovators, dreamers, investors and students to meet and greet every month to share ideas, market themselves and grow their network.
Stirring things up
“Networking usually involves meeting new people who share a profession, industry, or interests and usually includes exchanging ideas and information. Unfortunately, often these events are not only expensive but they also are not known by some members of the community who can really stir things up,” she says.
What’s more, they can be very intimidating for some members of society and hence they miss out on potential innovative locals, she adds. “Likewise, companies and other individuals with finances miss out on opportunities to invest in potential big ideas and discover new talent from grassroots levels.
“Mekenificent Wellness Centre is a wonderful example for anyone who wishes to start off. We share real entrepreneurial experiences and motivation to avoid mistakes we already made. Here you are in a safe space, with no judgement. It’s like speed dating but for business interests!” Meke says.
The platform is for anyone, whether a street vendor or someone who is still unsure of what they want to do, scared to start or have an idea already but wants to expand the network.
With two events already hosted and both attracting a good number of creatives, Meke encourages entrepreneurs to look out for the next event in June.
For more info, get in touch with Meke and her team at 0814417900 / 0813343382 or follow @mekenificent via social media platforms.