At just 21 years old, Belyse Umali embarked on a remarkable journey by founding Vakman Ltd in 2018 , started with no money and scrap –to- No equipment yet together with a team of 2 technicians started in her home parking lot.
Vakman Ltd a woodworking company that has since evolved into a thriving mini factory specializing in wood and metal processing. Despite starting with no prior experience, Belyse’s passion and determination propelled her forward in the business world.
Vakman Ltd stands out for its diverse services, including structural work such as installing doors, kitchens, and wardrobes on-site, along with crafting custom-made furniture. In an exclusive interview with Just4WomenAfrica, Belyse shed light on her entrepreneurial journey and the challenges she overcame along the way.
When asked about her early entry into entrepreneurship, Belyse revealed that there was no specific age she aimed to start a business. However, her lifelong desire to contribute to Rwanda’s business sector led her to discover her calling at the age of 21.
Transitioning into the woodworking industry was not a family tradition for Belyse. Instead, it was a previous stint at a woodwork shop that ignited her love for working with wood and the intricate process of crafting furniture pieces.
One of the major hurdles Belyse faced was earning respect and acceptance in a male-dominated industry, especially when leading a team of older male wood craftsmen. However, her leadership skills and determination helped her navigate through such challenges, earning her recognition as a capable leader.
Despite operating in a competitive environment, Belyse takes pride in Vakman’s commitment to delivering top-notch customized furniture to clients. The company works with both imported wood from Congo and South Sudan and locally sourced wood, showcasing versatility in their craftsmanship.
Remarkably, Belyse started Vakman without any initial capital. Every job secured was reinvested into the business, enabling them to acquire necessary equipment solely from profits. Despite lacking a portfolio initially, Belyse’s passion and dedication were the driving forces behind clients trusting her ability to deliver exceptional results.
Today, Vakman Ltd boasts a team of 15 full-time employees and expands its workforce on a contractual basis as needed. Their reach extends beyond Rwanda, with successful projects completed in neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
Belyse’s advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs is simple yet profound: start now, don’t wait for a specific skillset. Her story serves as an inspiration, showcasing the power of passion, determination, and resilience in carving a successful path in entrepreneurship, especially in traditionally male-dominated industries.