16 Dec Jonathan and Rianna, Entrepreneurship Power Couple
“Without Jonathan I cannot survive as I depend on his support heavily; because of his flexibility, he can assist with deliveries and the same obtains when he is busy with repairs, I assist with the purchase of automotive parts and also work late nights.” This husband and wife team is determined to not only build successful businesses but also a strong legacy that transcends ascends across the entrepreneurial landscape. Trading as “Auto Legion” for the past eight (8) years, Jonathan admitted “my Dad was a mechanic and this is where my love for the automotive field started which has me highly motivated.”
Jonathan described himself as a science student who had very little knowledge about business. However, after completing the program, Jonathan boasts of reaching higher levels of business growth. “JumpStart helped tremendously in improving my record-keeping skills which were poor. I also learnt new marketing strategies that can enhance the brand of my business.” He also introduced new customer service strategies which saw a leap in his customer base. “I am convinced that my business is now heading in the right direction …thanks to Jumpstart.”
What started as a hobby six (6) months for Riana De Castro has now grown into a full-time business. “Spinkles and Dough” offers a wide variety of vegan specialties from sweet to savoury!
Riana’s motivations emerged from her mother, a baker for many years – who once operated a family bakery. “For many years, I worked in the marketing field but left my job to assist my husband in managing his business.” Riana was also a science student who did not have a business background, but through observation of Jonathan’s business, she learnt some skills. Her biggest takeaways from the JumpStart program was the internal and external activities which provided opportunities for continuous networking and engagement among the participants.
Supporting the goals of each other’s business is at the helm of their entrepreneurial aspirations. As Riana puts it “Without Jonathan I cannot survive as I depend on his support heavily; because of his flexibility, he can assist with deliveries and the same obtains when he is busy with repairs, I assist with the purchase of automotive parts and also work late nights.” For this young couple, the key to success is flexibility and understanding! Looking ahead within the next two (2) years, this dynamic duo’s eyes are set on establishing a family bakery and an auto clinic.
See stories like this and more in YBTT’s Annual Report.