Despite the difficulties he faced during the pandemic, Jamie and his team were able to pivot their business model and focus on new product lines, such as corporate catering, which helped them survive and continue to operate. Jamie also spoke about his struggle to balance work and personal life, particularly being a present father and husband. He acknowledged that his ego has influenced his decision-making and caused him to make many mistakes. However, he also recognised that his ego has driven him to take bold steps that he might not have taken otherwise. Jamie emphasised the importance of finding a balance and keeping his ego in check to avoid making bad decisions that could hurt those around him.

During our chat, Jamie discussed the impact of COVID-19 on his family business and the lack of government support during the crisis. He talked about the panic he felt initially and his concern for the welfare of his staff who depended on the business for their livelihood. He also reflected on the resilience and determination that he developed during the pandemic, which enabled him to fulfil his obligations to those who were owed money. Additionally, Jamie discussed the value he sees in continuing and expanding his current property business, as well as applying the skills he has learned to future projects.

Overall, Jamie’s entrepreneurial journey is characterized by adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. He has faced numerous challenges, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his businesses and personal life, but has remained focused on his goals and continued to pursue his passions. His story serves as an inspiration to other entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of flexibility, self-reflection, and a willingness to take risks.

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More about Jamie:

Jamie is an entrepreneur, born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya. He is fascinated by innovation, technology and emerging markets and is the Founder of Kenya’s number one real estate portal buyrentkenya.com. He is also the property developer of Aspire Heights a 65 unit apartment building in Riruta. His other passion is food and his other businesses include restaurant and catering companies in Nairobi Kenya.

Jamie is a member of the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) and serves as a Director on their Global Board (2022-2025). Prior to that he served as the Regional Chair for the Middle East, Pakistan and Africa Region (2019 & 2020). He has been nominated as one of Kenya’s Top 40 under 40 businessmen (2015) and was included on the Forbes list of “30 Most Promising Young Entrepreneurs in Africa” (2016 & 2017)

Through his experiences across various industries and countries, he has acquired a diverse skillset that includes, leadership, business development, brand building, customer service, and strategy planning.