OMEC YES - The Young Entrepreneur Division of OMEC
Dzariman Ibrahim retains his position as Director of Young OMEC and his responsibility for developing OMEC YES. An Interview with Dzariman Ibrahim, Director of OMEC YES What do you do and what business are you in? I'm an architect by profession - business: mainly construction as well as design (building concept and graphics presentation) When did you decide to be an entrepreneur and what are the initial challenges you faced? How did you overcome them? Sometime around 2004. Initial challenges included start-up capital, sourcing work (potential jobs) and setting up a registered company. We had to base our business on the trust among the partners whom are all friends from university days, since more than 10 years ago. We got started using our own savings to set the business up part-time and minimised costs by using other sources for materials, printing etc. Once stable, we registered our company and moved on from there. Initial business was obtained from family and friends of partners and other close friends.- who can be good clients too. How did you finance your business? Initially we self funded the business with some investment capital from each partner and re-invested what we earned from works done. What business networking organisations or councils have you joined here in the UK? RIBA, Kelab UMNO and OMEC of course... When did you join OMEC and how helpful has it been for your business? Which of these organizations have been the most fruitful or helpful for your business? To expand business networking in general is essential. Learning to be involved with matters related to business. Provides an opportunity window to meet people and gain valuable knowledge. All organisations have been helpful in terms of providing all of the above in different aspects. Who are the individuals that have inspired you to be an entrepreneur? My wife, Parents, Parents-in-law, business partners & close friends. Which business tycoon do you model yourself after? Still searching the right possible one, but I hope that one day - others will want to model themselves on my achievements. What are your medium term plans (5 - 10 years) for your business? Do you intend to expand your business to Malaysia or other countries? To establish businesses in the UK, having a solid foundation among local clients and eventually branching out to Malaysia. Do you have plans to branch out into other arenas? Yes. From exterior building designs to possibly interior, construction/development, trading & maybe more. What is your advice to young Malaysians who would like to be an entrepreneur here in the UK? Start small with hard work and honesty. Ensure that intention is pure and things done the proper legal way in every aspect. Take no shortcuts to success and avoid playing dirty. How do you use the mainstream media (e.g.conventional advertising) or alternative media (e.g.social networking sites like facebook) to promote your business? Internet website and occasionally through construction magazines & newsletter but mainly through word of mouth, friends of friends & family members. How do you unwind after a hard day's work? Are your family and friends supportive of your foray into entrepreneurship? Having a relaxing time with family. Outings – holidays or shopping. Sometimes just being at home with my family. |
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