Emerging Entrepreneurs
The main streets in Manila are amazing labyrinths of creativity and cheerful confusion. As one takes time to observe and analyse the whole situation, many colourful and ingenious emerging entrepreneurs begin to come into focus. A couple of resourceful book sales-ladies have skilfully negotiated with a shop owner to rent two indented windows to house their bookstore display. Large wooden shutters are closed and locked at night to secure their precious literary stock. Such simplicity and co-operative business acumen has led to another family or two being able to survive the harsh realities of living in such a mega-city.
Nearby on the crowded, bustling sidewalk, with the added accompaniment of the highway traffic, a busy Notary is drafting important letters or documents seemingly unaware of all the noisy activities around him. He is perched on a dilapidated chair in front of a rickety wooden box of appropriate height that is graced by an ancient typewriter of dubious efficiency. Through his courageous efforts, another family is being supported.
Close by is a large tray of artistically and meticulously arranged everyday refreshment items for sale. They have been carefully researched to ensure maximum sales from the ever-changing sea of clients that pass along the congested sidewalk en route to their businesses, homes, places of employment or simply to visit friends. The diligent manner in which the display is created and the faithful, daily routine of setting up and closing down the stall, are indications of a strong motivation to gain income for survival.
Across a couple of blocks is a Government Office Complex. Even inside this hub of clerical and diplomatic activity one finds individuals with entrepreneurial talent. As I waited to visit with one of the administrative staff, a secretary asked if she might show me samples of items produced by her "company" back in her barangay or home locality. She displayed a variety of items made from stocking hose material, colourful butterflies and other artistic shapes/designs which were delicately decorated. Her score or so of co-workers is constantly seeking outlets for her products and wondered if I might be a link in their customer-chain.
Below the surface of activity on a busy side-walk in such a mega-city, one sees incredible creativity and determination . Could there be a way to enrich and encourage this admirable and ambitious entrepreneurship? Could a consortium of large companies discreetly design a system for providing some upgraded assistance to these emerging business people?
Larger premises for the book enterprise, a newer model of typewriter and possibly a desk for the Notary, outlets for the design business and a more complex or maybe mobile display centre for the food sales folk. Just small provisions but such huge steps forward for these valiant family-breadwinners.
A thought to ponder…… an idea to pursue……
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