Cynthia Mumbo on #WhatItTakes: Giving Up Is Not Negotiable, That is failure

With the self-made narrative and multiple stories in the internet, it is normal for one to overestimate the work needed to build a startup or even scale a business. First-timers and novice entrepreneurs often find themselves in a dilemma when things fail to work out as they supposed.

Today on #WhatItTakes, I was able to catch up with Cynthia Mumbo on a few things in building a business. Cynthia is the founder and CEO of sports Connect Africa, a sports consultancy that focuses on connecting and empowering ports stakeholders and managers on the continent through sports consultancy and development programs.

Kim: When did you start out as an entrepreneur? And what drove you to considering entrepreneurship?

Cynthia: Started out in 2012 and was in and out. I decided to go full time in 2016. My drive comes from the idea that sports can change lives and not just socially but commercially too. I also value my independence and being able to chart my own path.

Kim: One aspect of entrepreneurship is sacrifice, what are some of the notable sacrifices you’ve made or you still do for the sake of your business.

Cynthia: The struggle is real. I have sacrificed meals, definitely my social life has been hit hard because I have to choose between hanging out and putting the money in the business. I have sacrificed comfort of having a monthly salary to uncertainty. I use nduthis often these days… I think the sacrifices are worth it.

Kim: What are some of your most difficult moments in business?

Cynthia: When payments don’t come as you planned. I think for me this has been the toughest lesson. Cash is King in business. Having trusted people with your business and they do not reciprocate is hard to handle. The other thing is having people around me who don’t see my vision. I cut those out, very fast…  My lessons have been to stay focused and try not to repeat the same mistakes.

Kim: Why can’t you give up?
Cynthia: Giving up is not negotiable. That is failure, I don’t believe in starting something I can’t finish. I also believe that there is a solution to all problems. I focus on the outcome and if it that outcome will empower others, I have no reason to give up.

Kim: Greatest lessons so far?
Cynthia: Stay focused, keep working, nothing good comes easy. And enjoy what you’re doing…