Elie is 22 years old and studies administration at the Career College. Alongside his studies, he also runs his own company – a marketing agency with a new concept that helps real estate agents with Facebook ads.
“My idea is to develop the person individually and professionally.”
How did you come up with the idea?
I came up with the idea after testing thousands of ideas. I don’t believe in failure. Either I learn something new or I stand still in the same place. It is common to think about what others will think when you start your own business, but other people’s opinions have never worried me. I run my own race.
What did you do to get your idea off the ground?
I was patient, which was difficult because I am an impatient person. But I planned and based my strategy on the experience I gained from previous business ideas. I made a plan with deadlines that I followed to move forward. In this way, it became easier for me to follow up and evaluate my goals.
Have you encountered any obstacles?
I overthink a lot. I have many ideas and sometimes I rush through them because I want to see success quickly. So my biggest obstacle is myself.
Have you gotten over it? How?
By trying lots of new things. Through experience, I have learned that I need to give it time. Success cannot be stressed.
Has networking been important to you?
Yes absolutely. It has been important to surround myself with people who think like me and have the same values, to participate in networking activities (Drivhuset has many good events), and to talk to as many people as possible. I always have a smile and a positive attitude. For me, it has been important to have the opportunity to present my idea to the right people.
What advice would you give to a student who wants to start their own business?
Plan your time and focus on what you want to achieve. Set reasonable goals. Spend 1-2 hours per day on your plan instead of scrolling on tiktok. You will get further in 1-3 months than you expect. There is no such thing as motivation. It is discipline that takes you forward.
I often hear from friends and classmates that “it’s too much at once”, everyone has 24 hours. I don’t have more hours but I manage.
Bet on yourself, fight hard and believe in yourself. No one else will believe in you until you succeed, so it’s important to believe in yourself even when things aren’t going well. I have had to expose myself to uncomfortable situations to become the person I am today.
Last but not least! How to get in touch with you?
My company is called Onumia Consulting. If you want to get in touch with me, I can be found on LinkedIn and Instagram or on my website: www.onumiaconsulting.com
