Entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in shaping the social, economic, and technological landscape of society. As the world continues to evolve, the intelligence and innovative ideas brought forth by these individuals contribute to the growth and prosperity of nations.
Moreover, young entrepreneurs are often at the forefront of driving innovation within society. Their fresh perspectives, adaptable mindsets, and willingness to take risks enable them to challenge existing norms and create novel solutions to complex problems.
Babucarr Janko is one of those young entrepreneurs in The Gambia thriving in the business of tie-dye and batiks. Founder of Janko’s Creation, he graduated with a bachelor degree from the University of The Gambia.
His trademark focuses on batiks and tie-dye textiles creation with the use of both natural and chemical dyes.
In this interview, the Sukuta resident explained that he inherited the business from his mother and has since been in the business for over two decades. “I was doing it as a source of income generation to help my mom. In the beginning it was only bedsheets; but now the business has expanded to the creation of T-shirts and trousers. However, I am more into Bazin textile creation because in business it is important to specialise,” he pointed out.
Commenting on the importance of business, Janko said the benefits of doing this business cannot be overemphasised. “It makes you financially-independent and broadens your network to interact with potential customers, because in business your network is your net worth”.
On the challenges, Janko lamented the general attitude of Gambians towards locally-made batik cloths. “Whenever they meet someone putting a good batiks or tie-dye clothing, their first impression is that the person is from a foreign country like Mali. If you are not from there, they lose interest,” he charged. He also mentioned high prices of production materials, as well as the challenge of product packaging.
The young entrepreneur revealed his ambition to build a tie-dye production centre, having observed that there is none in the country. In the proposed centre, he informed, people, particularly women and girls, can be trained on batiks making at international standard.
Babucar Janko is not only into business; he said over the past years he has been engaging a lot in community services, as a youth. He said he uses his business to give back to the community; conducts training and skill development with women groups and girls.
“Some time ago, I partnered with Gaye Njorro Skill Academy in trainings in Janjanbureh, Jarra Soma as well as with YMCA in conducting trainings for girls,” he disclosed.
In conclusion, the UTG graduate urged young people to engage in skill development. He posited that entrepreneurship fuels economic growth, and job creation opportunities.
