Challenge becomes 13-year-old's business
"This was initially a challenge that my mother gave me and now I enjoy it so much that I hope the business grows," said 13-year-old Charles Kandingua of Charles Cleaning Services in Windhoek.Charles initially used his mother's cell phone to trade in foreign exchange.
"My mother said I can't always use other people's phones and made a deal with me. If I can make N$1 000 within 100 days, I will get my own phone so I can trade.”
Charles exchanged ideas with his aunt and uncle.
"My uncle came up with the idea of cleaning rubbish bins. It's something I do at home anyway. I also decided to offer services to rake people's yards clean and to wash and sweep the pavement."
Charles set up his business a month ago and has already made N$450. He charges N$30 per rubbish bin, and N$50 each for the sweeping and raking work.
"I offer my services all over Windhoek. However, I can only do it on weekends because I'm still at school."
Charles says he enjoys his business and it keeps him busy and out of harm's way.
"To all the other young people out there, I just want to say: Do something, start something. Don't just rely on your parents to get money. Do something, rather than waiting for things to come your way."
Charles Cleaning Services' services can be contacted at 081 346 2706. - [email protected]