Bai Conteh, a member of Cohort 5 at Aurora Impact, embodies the qualities of an entrepreneur wholeheartedly. Through his unwavering commitment and thirst for knowledge, Bai has not only overcome the challenges of operating in a volatile economic climate but has also emerged as a beacon of hope and progress in Sierra Leone. With his start-up venture, Conteh Industries, he has brought innovation and value to the soap industry, showcasing his unwavering dedication to entrepreneurial development.
Commitment and Consistency: Bai Conteh’s journey toward entrepreneurial success is characterized by a strong sense of commitment. His dedication is palpable in his unwavering attendance at entrepreneurship development classes and his consistent efforts to grow personally and professionally. Bai’s commitment to self-improvement has not gone unnoticed, as he was recently awarded the prestigious “Most Growing Start-up” certificate by Aurora Impact, highlighting his exceptional progress despite the challenging economic circumstances in the country.
Zeal for Learning: Bai’s attitude towards success is firmly rooted in his ardent desire to learn and seek guidance. He embraces advice willingly and is not afraid to challenge his own preconceived notions, allowing him to unlearn and relearn as he navigates the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. This zeal for learning has equipped Bai with commendable knowledge in entrepreneurial development and related topics, which he effectively applies to his business endeavors.
Driving Positive Change: At the heart of Conteh Industries lies the mission to add value to the soap industry. Founded in 2020 in Lungi, the company has quickly made its mark in the local market. Bai’s production of powdered soap has reached an impressive capacity of 125 kg per week, with all five bags of 25 kg each being sold within that timeframe. Bai’s dedication to quality and customer satisfaction is evident in the meticulous selection of raw materials, some of which he sources from Liberia for washing powder production. By offering powdered soap in various quantities, including cups of 50g and 100g, as well as 25kg bags, Bai ensures that his products cater to a wide range of consumer needs.
Creating Opportunities: In addition to his entrepreneurial achievements, Bai Conteh is also actively contributing to the local economy by providing employment opportunities. Conteh Industries currently employs three part-time staff members who work on a casual basis, receiving a stipend for their dedicated efforts. As Bai’s business continues to grow, he has plans to expand his team by hiring a full-time staff member, further bolstering job opportunities in the community.
Bai Conteh’s entrepreneurial journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and showcases the power of commitment, resilience, and a thirst for knowledge. In the face of economic instability, he has not only weathered the storm but has also thrived. With Conteh Industries, Bai has demonstrated that success is attainable through unwavering dedication, continuous learning, and a vision to add value to one’s community. As we celebrate the accomplishments of Bai Conteh, we eagerly await the further growth and impact he will undoubtedly make in the entrepreneurial landscape of Sierra Leone.
Bai Conteh and Samuel, one of his staff members
Bai Conteh showcasing the soap
Bai Conteh showcasing the packaging he is currently using for his soap
Bai Conteh describing his entrepreneurship journey to the Aurora Impact team
Samuel grinding down soap for the production
