What should we remember from this lesson? Read the key messages below.

Traits of a successful entrepreneur are;

• Not giving up
• Being flexible
• Having passion for what you do
• Being confident
• Creativity

It takes time to start your own business. You need to do market research before you understand the opportunities. Click here to know more about how to do market research or a market assessment.

To become an entrepreneur and start your business, you have to think about all the options and possibilities. A business canvas can help you in defining your goals and thinking about all aspects of your business. Click here to see an example of Abdi’s business canvas to sell fair trade Ethiopian coffee. or download an empty business canvas to make your own plan here.

Not everyone wants to start his or her own business, some people want to find a job within the market need. To look for the right opportunity, it is important to be aware of your transferable skills. These are skills you take with you in social life, at school or at work. Find a list of skills below or click here to know more about each of these skills.

• Communicate Interpret Analyze Creativity Decision making
• Flexibility Explaining Planning Calculate numbers Computer skills
• Record data Set goals Learn quickly Confidence Enthusiast
• Friendly Energetic Helpful Trustworthy Efficient
• Organizing Delegating Motivate others Time management Listening
• Punctual Loyal Precise Good work attitude Integrity
• Perseverance Team player Leadership skills Show initiative Personal development
• Cultural tip; Did you know that Africa counts a lot of very entrepreneurial countries? Zambia is listed as the most entrepreneurial country in Africa, together with Nigeria. A lot of people in Zambia,
• Nigeria, Malawi and Uganda are starting their own businesses. And did you know that there’s almost an equal number of men and women starting new businesses in these countries? How does that work in Ethiopia?