While growing up, Faridah Kamaliza, Habba Batamuliza and Mariam Kayitesi, always did things together. The three sisters used the same approach when they decided to start an events management business. They have defied the odds and old stereotypes, taking the events management sector by storm. They told Business Times Pontian Kabeera what inspired them to join the male-dominated business world

Tell us about your business?

Though we are sisters, we ventured into events management individually on a freelance basis. So, by the time we decided to form a company, we had gained a lot of experience in events management and wanted to use our expertise maximally.

Because all of us had a natural passion for organising functions, we figured it was time we capitalised on it to start a business. That’s how Hakaifah Group, an events management and consulting company, was born.

We offer complete event planning and management services, entertainment and special events co-ordination and promotion; organise weddings, birthday parties, conferences and many other events. We offer tailor-made services for companies, organisations, organise trade fairs and festivals and family events across the country.

We ensure attention to detail and quality event presentation in all we do.Did you face any challenges when starting out?

Typically, like any start-up, the biggest challenge is to have that first client who will trust you to manage their event. Securing enough investment capital was also a challenge since we hadn’t saved up enough money by the time we opened shop. Though we still face challenges here and there, we try our level best to solve them. The Kigali-based company presently employs five permanent staff.

Would you advise a person with little savings to venture into business?

Some people, especially the youth, think that starting a business requires a lot of money; what makes a business grow or fail is ones dedication and determination to make it work. Of course you will need some little money to kick-start the enterprise.

For us we were some how lucky because we started with Rwf1 million which we had saved over time.

Some people, especially the youth, claim that saving money for a future venture is hard and instead squander even the little they have on luxuries. For us we vowed from an early age that, come rain or sunshine, we would be ‘our own bosses’ in the future.

So we started saving some of the money our parents gave us to buy clothes or shoes.

What are some of the events you have organised?

We have been behind some of the successful events, including the Annual Agricultural Show, Kwita Izina and Fespad, a cultural festival and the Private Sector Federation’s annual Rwanda International Trade Fair.

For us, this is a great achievement that underlines our quality service that has won the trust of big companies and organisations.

Therefore, business people should always remember that quality service speaks volumes, and sells your brand or service.

Faridah Kamaliza says all the big deals they have handle were won through competitive bidding.

business@newtimes.co.rw