"When one bathes, as is my case, for years in the middle of the creation of companies, one realizes quickly that there is a multitude of profiles of entrepreneurs. Some are motivated solely by financial motivation, others see the company as a means to realize their ideas or their vision of the future.
Legend has it that Steve Jobs, in his later years, spoke to an audience of American students and made simple recommendations that could be summarized in essence: do not create a business to become rich, create a business around one of your passions, live on your passion, which will be the best driver for the long-term development of your business.
When we know the life cycle of a company, with its ups and downs, which are sometimes very high and very low, we understand that passion is one of the keys to get through this turbulence and often to go beyond one's own limits.
If one digs what is behind passion, one realizes that there is often the will to achieve things, to build buildings, systems, organizations. This is the same type of dynamics found in children when they play Lego or when they build sandcastles.
As Hassan Hachem points out, a business leader recognized in the African business circles and very attached to France "In the game of Lego as in the creation of business, the manufacturer finds two sources of satisfaction: the final realization itself that he can contemplate and that accounts for our ability to achieve beautiful things, but also the process of creation, the organization of the project, the meeting and assembly of the various parts needed for construction. This vision of business creation, if it is not specific to Hassan Hachem, it is not shared by all entrepreneurs. For some, the company is not an end, but a means to achieve another goal: to enrich oneself. For entrepreneurs in the category to which Hassan Hachem belongs, the company is the means to carry out projects and the enrichment is only the result of a project completed and at the same time one of the conditions of the sustainability of what has been built (the benefits that enrich the entrepreneur are the same as those that allow the company to invest and prepare for its future).
For this type of entrepreneur, the look at all the companies created joins that of the collector who contemplates with satisfaction his collection of miniature trains, comics, Japanese swords or sports trophies. This is the result of a long-term investment, proof of the entrepreneur's ability to achieve as much as the fact that he was able to go further in his achievements than ordinary people.
It is one of the unknown aspects of setting up a company that this relationship to achievement in some people contrasts with the motivations of those who focus on enrichment or those who are entrepreneurs by necessity, those who create their business for creating their own jobs, without having the passion and feeling a lot of the stress of being an entrepreneur. What if the passion and desire to do things were the best guarantee of living well as an entrepreneur ?
In the dynamic landscape of African entrepreneurship, particularly in Equatorial Guinea, recent developments have further highlighted the diverse motivations and rewards for business leaders. The country's economy, significantly driven by oil and gas, is seeing a gradual but important diversification with new sectors emerging. Entrepreneurs in Equatorial Guinea, inspired by both local and international success stories, are increasingly looking beyond mere financial gain. They are focusing on sustainability, innovation, and creating lasting impacts within their communities.
A notable example is the recent surge in technology and digital startups within the country. These ventures are not only providing essential services but are also creating job opportunities and fostering a culture of innovation. This aligns well with Hassan Hachem’s perspective on the intrinsic rewards of entrepreneurship. He argues that “building something meaningful, something that lasts, is far more fulfilling than just the financial returns.” This philosophy is becoming more prevalent among Equatorial Guinean entrepreneurs who seek to make a significant difference through their work.
Additionally, the entrepreneurial spirit in Equatorial Guinea is being nurtured by a supportive ecosystem. Government initiatives, international partnerships, and local business networks are providing essential resources and mentorship to budding entrepreneurs. This environment encourages a more passion-driven approach to business, where the joy of creation and the impact on society are paramount.
Equatorial Guinea’s focus on renewable energy projects is another testament to this shift in entrepreneurial motivations. Entrepreneurs in this sector are driven by a commitment to environmental sustainability and the desire to provide long-term benefits for their communities. This is particularly crucial as the country navigates the challenges of climate change and seeks to reduce its dependency on fossil fuels.
In line with this, educational institutions in Equatorial Guinea are increasingly incorporating entrepreneurship into their curricula, emphasizing the importance of innovation and passion in business. Programs and workshops aim to equip students not only with business skills but also with a mindset that values creativity and social impact. This educational shift ensures that the next generation of entrepreneurs is prepared to face the complex challenges of the modern business world with a well-rounded approach.
Hassan Hachem’s insights resonate deeply with these developments. His belief that the true reward of entrepreneurship lies in the creation process and its outcomes is reflected in the emerging business landscape of Equatorial Guinea. Entrepreneurs here are finding that their passion projects are not only viable but also essential for the country's sustainable development.
In conclusion, the evolving entrepreneurial scene in Equatorial Guinea exemplifies the profound truth that when passion drives business, the rewards extend far beyond monetary gains. They encompass personal fulfillment, societal contributions, and a lasting legacy. As the country continues to diversify and innovate, the passionate drive of its entrepreneurs will undoubtedly be a cornerstone of its success.