Turning challenges into opportunities

“I want to be the change in my community,” says sole owner of Olivia's Investment CC, Christopher Olivier van Wyk.

The 32-year-old Windhoek entrepreneur was born with a desire of owning his own company.

Today he has accomplished that dream. Olivia's Investment CC, named after his daughter, specialises in digital satellite television, sound systems, telephone networks, closed-circuit cameras, air conditioning, alarms, intercoms, electrical fencing and access control installations.

The company has five full-time employees. With a fleet of two branded vehicles, it delivers electronic services within and around Windhoek.

Van Wyk recalls that young people believed that there is no other way to make it in life, but to be known as a gangster in the streets. “This is a waste of time and it is not cool,” he says.

Born in Khomasdal as the only child, Van Wyk's life was hard. He completed his secondary education at Jan Mohr Secondary School in Windhoek. The death of his mother changed his perspective towards life.

“I promised myself to do the best I can for her sake and to be an example to the youth,” he said.

He later took it upon himself and decided to make a difference.



Change of lifestyle

Five years ago, Van Wyk was employed as a call centre operator at a security company. It also specialised in electronics installations. After he acquired the necessary experience, he decided to go for his dream.

“I took my last pay cheque, paid my rent and bought myself a backpack, a screw driver and a cutter – never looked back since,” he says.

Since 2012, as a Bank Windhoek client, Van Wyk worked tirelessly to realise his dream. He managed to save most of the proceeds. This allowed him to start Olivia's Investment CC.

As his business grew, he planned on acquiring another vehicle. He sought financial assistance and approached Bank Windhoek's emerging small and medium enterprises (ESME) finance branch. His application was approved.

The ESME finance branch partners with Namibian entrepreneurs who positively contribute to the local economy. It offers a comprehensive range of products tailored for entrepreneur individual business needs. With its new improved service offering, entrepreneurs can now gain access to finance and conduct their business banking activities at one convenient location.

“Christopher showed how determined he was when he started his business. He is young, committed and runs his business in a disciplined manner,” says Mbo Luvindao, Bank Windhoek's ESME finance branch manager.



Business growth

Van Wyk's community is proud of his accomplishment. Case in point is his technicians. Bonnie Felix (33) says Van Wyk changed his life.

“I can now support my family,” he says.

Sisko Marumbu (31) and Ismael Numumbanduka (21) say they are happy and inspired by Van Wyk.

Asked what challenges he had when he initially started his business, Van Wyk says he always thinks positive - any challenge that presents itself is an opportunity to find a solution. Although the start-up capital was the major challenge, he did not let this deter him.

“Business is good and the income is invested back into the business for sustainability,” he says.

He advises young aspiring entrepreneurs to not expect handouts. “Be determined to succeed in life.”

With Bank Windhoek's ESME finance branch by his side, Van Wyk aims to employ more young people. He also plans to expand to other parts of the country in the near future.

“Thank you, Bank Windhoek, for believing in me.”