Sven Thieme shares entrepreneurial skills with students

As a guest speaker at the Student Entrepreneurs Program conference hosted by the Ministry of Higher Education, Training and Innovation in Windhoek last week, respected entrepreneur and Executive Chairman of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, Sven Thieme, shared his ingredients for success with the hundreds of students that attended the conference.

Thieme delivered his motivational talk on the last day of the conference alongside the likes of esteemed Ghanaian entrepreneur, Nana Tweneboa-Boateng and Benz Building Supplies Group of Companies Managing Director, Ben Zaaruka, amongst others. Opened by the First Lady, Monica Geingos who delivered the keynote address on the first day - a woman known for her significant contributions and achievements in the business fraternity - the conference is part of government’s efforts to inspire young Namibians to venture into entrepreneurship, and to enrich them with the necessary knowledge and wisdom in guidance to taking on an entrepreneurial journey.

Thieme focused on what he regards as critical Entrepreneurial Skills for success. These include:

PURPOSE – “Success in every sphere is based on a clear defined purpose. Know YOUR purpose, embrace and live it.”

PASSION – “When you have passion for what you do, it no longer is a job. It is a habit that you enjoy.”

LEADERSHIP – “A leader leads by example, inspires, motivates and unleashes potential in his/her employees. A leader creates a strong culture of excellence and positive working environment. A great leader spots and develops talent. A leader has fun!”

CONFIDENCE VS ARROGANCE VS HUMILITY – “Now that I know what my purpose and passion is, I need confidence to excel in an ever competitive world. The more action (including risks) you take, the more confidence you gain. But, there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Confidence coupled with humility earns respect.”

APPRECIATION – “Acknowledge yourself by the role you play and value the contribution you make to your business/company, family, community, society and country. Acknowledge, value and credit your team – Your success is their success. Acknowledge and value your customer/client.”

Thieme: “I am deeply humbled by the honor that was bestowed on me to share my story and experiences with a group of young aspiring entrepreneurs and to make them understand the value and important role they play in the future of our country and economy. It was an absolute delight to also share the stage with some of our country’s greatest entrepreneurs who has personally inspired me over many years. A job well done by government for this initiative, which I trust will be followed by many more such initiatives that focuses on unlocking potential in our youth who has the potential to contribute to a prosperous future for our beautiful country. Platforms such as these speak directly to the O&L purpose of ‘Creating a future, enhancing life’ for all Namibians of which I am very passionate about.”