Life and business experience sharing

Mr. Ulave Asfawu, a business owner and government employee at Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources, delivered an inspiring testimonial by sharing his personal entrepreneurial journey with the students. He recounted how he began his business venture at a young age, even before securing formal employment. Upon entering the workforce, he soon realized that his monthly salary alone was not sufficient to cover his living expenses — especially when compared to the higher income he was generating through his business activities. Today, Mr. Ulave successfully runs his own enterprise, employing 20 staff members and paying a total of approximately 60,000 ETB in monthly salaries. His experience has strengthened his conviction in the value of self-employment, financial independence, and entrepreneurship as a sustainable path to economic empowerment. In his message to the students, he encouraged them to take initiative in developing and launching their own small businesses after graduation, regardless of their academic background or employment situation. He emphasized that he continues to engage in agricultural business alongside his government position, a dual approach that has allowed him to enhance his livelihood while creating jobs for others. Mr. Ulave concluded by urging the participants to uphold discipline, consistency, and perseverance in their entrepreneurial pursuits. He advised them never to underestimate any business idea that holds potential for growth and profit. Highlighting the scarcity of formal job opportunities in today’s market, he underscored that creating one’s own opportunity through entrepreneurship is not only practical but also a powerful means of achieving personal and community development.