The Success Story of Margaret Kadi and Pangea
In the dynamic world of Sierra Leonean entrepreneurship, Margaret Kadi has emerged as a symbol of perseverance and innovation. As the CEO of Pangea, a renowned bespoke furniture and home goods company, Margaret has navigated the complexities of the business landscape with resilience and hard work. However, her path to success has been marked by significant challenges, particularly in accessing finance and funding in Sierra Leone’s competitive market.
For over eight years, Margaret has steered Pangea towards success, relying on her own resources to fuel the company’s growth. Despite her entrepreneurial prowess, the absence of external financial support limited her ability to expand her business and reach new heights. Additionally, the dearth of middle management staff presented operational hurdles, forcing Margaret to juggle multiple responsibilities single-handedly.
Amidst these challenges, she was told about the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP), supported by the World Bank. Recommended by a friend, she seized the opportunity to participate in the SLEDP program, recognizing its potential to address her business’s long standing obstacles. Through SLEDP, Margaret and her team received invaluable training and skills development, empowering them to overcome operational inefficiencies and unlock new growth opportunities.
Despite Pangea’s pre-existing success, the intervention of SLEDP proved transformative for Margaret and her team. By equipping them with essential skills and knowledge, SLEDP enabled Pangea to streamline its operations and foster a culture of collaboration and empowerment. With newfound capabilities, she has been able to delegate tasks more effectively, freeing up her time to focus on strategic initiatives and business expansion.
The journey with SLEDP was not without its challenges, but Margaret found support and understanding from the project’s service provider, Innovation SL. Together with SLEDP, they navigated obstacles and adapted to changing circumstances, ensuring Pangea’s continued success in the face of adversity.
Looking ahead, Margaret is optimistic about the future of Pangea. Armed with a skilled workforce and a streamlined business model, she is confident in her ability to scale her business and unlock new growth opportunities. As she continues to inspire and innovate, Margaret Kadi stands as a testament to the transformative impact of initiatives like SLEDP, empowering women entrepreneurs and driving economic prosperity in Sierra Leone.