THE SOAPMAKER’S DREAM : BAI CONTEH’S PATH TO TRANSFORMING LIVES WITH CONTEH INDUSTRIES

“Without soap, it would have been very difficult for me to gain an education. This inspired me to start my own business and become a job creator.” Bai Conteh

I met Bai Conteh several years ago at an entrepreneurship and young people’s conference. When he reached out last year to introduce his venture, I could barely recall who he was. He was adamant about showing his gratitude for everything I had instilled in his mind and vision back then (mind you, he owed me nothing – was not obligated at all). We met, and he handed me a large bag of detergent powder, persistently following up to ensure I used it. I have been a fan ever since. Since our reconnection, I have studied and observed this young man, and one thing is clear—he is determined to succeed and deeply devoted to his craft. Today, I would like to amplify his work to the thousands of faithful readers and supporters that we have because I believe in his potential. Be inspired by his story and discover how the power of startups and social entrepreneurship can drive positive change.

A Journey Fueled by Soap and Determination
Bai Conteh’s story is one of perseverance and ingenuity. Raised in a modest household where his mother produced bar soap to fund his education, Bai learned early on the transformative power of entrepreneurship. The soap his mother made was not just a means to cleanliness but a lifeline that paved the way for Bai’s schooling. Inspired by this, Bai embarked on his own entrepreneurial journey, driven by the vision of creating jobs and uplifting his community.This did not happen by default it was as a result of been rejected multiple times by the job market as a graduate. He did not sit and mop but was quick to create employment for himself and become and employer for others.

Conteh Industries: Crafting Quality with Care
The Conteh Industries model is committed to sustainability and quality. Their flagship product, Brook-Clean, exemplifies this ethos. This biodegradable, skin-friendly soap is designed to provide a thorough, refreshing clean for clothes, effectively removing stains while being gentle on the skin. To maintain high standards, Conteh Industries rigorously adheres to standard operating procedures and continually incorporates customer feedback to enhance their products.

Impact and Job Creation: A Ripple Effect of Change
Bai and his team have not only created a business; it is a catalyst for change. The company has trained ten young individuals and provided employment to five, along with creating opportunities for farmers involved in palm kernel production. This initiative indirectly impacts 50 individuals, creating a ripple effect of economic empowerment. Through comprehensive training programs, the employees gain valuable skills in soap production, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment within the team.It is still early days, imagine what access to financial and infrastructural support could do to such a vision.

Leveraging Social Media for Growth
In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for brand awareness and customer engagement. For Conteh Industries, platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp have been instrumental in expanding their clientele base and enhancing public awareness. Additionally, their mentorship and business development journey with the Aurora Foundation for investment readiness training has bolstered their marketing and brand awareness strategies, positioning them for sustained growth.

Overcoming Challenges: Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Bai’s entrepreneurial journey has not been without its challenges. From assembling the right team to mastering financial management and securing funding, the path has been arduous. However, these challenges have imparted invaluable lessons. Bai emphasizes the importance of integrity, which is crucial for building trust in one’s products and brand. He advises aspiring entrepreneurs to identify societal needs and devise innovative solutions, and to seek mentorship to stay on track. His mantra of working smart, celebrating others’ successes, and staying motivated through goal setting is a testament to his resilient spirit.

Networking, Mentoring, and Business Competitions: Keys to Success
Networking and mentoring are critical components of entrepreneurial success. Building connections with like-minded individuals and industry leaders can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable insights, and offer support during challenging times. Bai says his own experience with mentors that he has connected with, has been a teachable exprience, they have proven to be a pillar of support through some challenging periods. 

He also strongly believes that entering business competitions is another way to challenge oneself and gain recognition. ‘These competitions not only provide exposure but also help entrepreneurs refine their business models, pitch effectively, and attract potential investors. They serve as a platform to showcase innovative ideas and gain feedback from experts in the field’.

This too is Africa : Similar Like-Minded Entrepreneurs
At Ariana Diaries we believe that Bai’s journey is reminiscent of other inspiring entrepreneurs who have turned challenges into opportunities. For instance, Emmanuel Jal, a former child soldier turned musician and social entrepreneur, uses his platform to advocate for peace and education in South Sudan. Similarly, Swaady Martin, founder of Yswara, a luxury tea brand, focuses on promoting African heritage and empowering local communities through sustainable business practices. This is the Africa that we advocate for, these are the stories that we love to tell.

Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Bai envisions a future where Conteh Industries continues to flourish and expand. Plans are underway to introduce 25kg bags of their products and to establish a state-of-the-art processing center within the next five years. This facility will enable advanced manufacturing and large-scale production, allowing Conteh Industries to reach every corner of Sierra Leone with their quality products.

Beyond business, Bai enjoys reading business articles and blog posts from other entrepreneurs, spending time with his family, and occasionally watching football. He draws inspiration from a diverse group of mentors, including Ariana Oluwole, Mohamed Hemoh, Abdul M Fatoma, Mavis Madure, Ishmael Bull, Edleen B Elba, Strive Masiyiwa, and Vusi Thembekwayo.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of Conteh Industries. By interacting with the local community through social media and one-on-one engagements, the company fosters strong relationships with customers. This approach not only boosts customer retention but also encourages word-of-mouth referrals, driving brand growth and awareness.

Connect with Conteh Industries
To learn more about Conteh Industries and their journey, you can connect with them through the following channels:

Facebook: Conteh Industries
Email: contehindustries2020@gmail.com
Address: 13 Koromaya Masoila, Lungi, Sierra Leone
Phone: +232 99694377 / +232 34447587