How does a banker ditch the financing world without the security to go into business?
First, you tell yourself that there is more you can do to help society with your skills. Second, you believe it, with defiance and stone-walled stubbornness, with a messianic belief in your abilities.
Lastly, perhaps, crucially, you take inspiration from your father, who is a businessman.
In 2017, Caroline threw caution to the wind and took on the big boys. She wanted to improve the standard of roofing sheets, she says.
"Leadership is both a caterpillar and a butterfly. “It is very exciting for me because you make decisions that affect the lives of many. Sometimes it can be overwhelming."
“Over the years I realised that there was a gap. There are many roofing companies in Kenya but the quality they provide was not good.”
Leadership, she says, is both a caterpillar and a butterfly. “It is very exciting for me because you make decisions that affect the lives of many. Sometimes it can be overwhelming.”
She still remembers the worst advice she received about work, that you work your entire youth and that rest comes in your 60s and 70s. “I am not sure that is true,” she says.
Entrepreneurship can be a 24/7 job. There may be no rest for the wicked, but similarly, there is no rest for founders. “But being in business is the best decision I ever made in my life,” she says.
What do people get wrong about entrepreneurship? “They assume that once you start a business that is the beginning of a good life and better lifestyle. It is somewhat true but the work is much more,” she says.
What is the one business quote she swears by? “Strive to be the best in all you do.”
Eddy Ashioya