Learning from Those Who’ve Just Begun: Lessons from CDI
Prepare for disappointments—it’s part of the journey.
On Friday, November 1, 2024, our Founder and CEO, Bakari S. Machumu, visited the Corporate Development Institute (CDI) at their headquarters in the PSSSF Commercial Complex on Sam Nujoma Road, Dar es Salaam. What unfolded during this visit was not just a meeting—it was a masterclass in starting a business in the knowledge industry.
CDI, founded a little over a year ago by a team of young and ambitious professionals, provided a treasure trove of lessons for anyone venturing into uncharted entrepreneurial waters. For someone building a new company like BSM Washauri (TZ) Ltd., this visit was nothing short of enlightening.
A Mission with Unexpected Returns
The visit had clear objectives:
1. Seek inspiration ✅
2. Gain valuable insights ✅
3. Explore opportunities for collaboration ✅ (Work-in-progress 🚧).
What made this encounter stand out was the raw honesty of CDI’s reflections on their first year. They didn’t just share their successes—they openly discussed the hurdles, surprises, and moments of doubt that shaped their journey.
The Hard Truths of Starting Out
Among the many insights shared, one stood out sharply:
“One of our biggest challenges was assuming that people we had known in our previous roles would automatically support us or work with us. That wasn’t the case. Many people trust the organization you were part of, not necessarily you as an individual. Be prepared to face disappointment. You will need to rebuild trust—this time as your own entity.”
This was a humbling yet empowering realization. It’s easy to underestimate how much weight a brand or a position carries until you step out on your own. Building trust as an individual or a new entity takes time, resilience, and unwavering focus.
A Powerful Analogy
As CDI aptly put it: “A star doesn’t shine during the day—it shines brightest in the dark.”
That metaphor hit home. It was a reminder that challenges don’t dim your potential; they provide the backdrop against which you can truly shine.
The Bottom Line:
“Jiandae kisaikolojia”—prepare yourself mentally for the road ahead.
As Bakari reflected on this meeting, he left with a clear understanding of the hard work required to make BSM Washauri a trusted and influential brand. The task is formidable, but the opportunities to make an impact are limitless.
Bidding his hosts farewell, Mr Bakari said: “Thank you Mr Chairman, CEO, Directors, and the entire CDI team for your warm welcome, candid insights, and the generosity of your experience. You’ve set a benchmark for what it means to share, collaborate, and inspire.”
#LessonsInLeadership #StartingOut #BuildingTrust