I have introduced WAKA in a previous post already. However, it is now the right time to introduce WAKA with all its values and USP properly.

WAKA Fruits is a food-startup based in Newcastle upon Tyne. I am the co-founder together with 3 other course members from Germany, Indonesia and the UK as well as one additional member from Germany. It has been initiated in November 2017 and started with the requirement of our module in Business Enterprise for PG Students to form a student group and set up a business. With my previous experience, I looked out for members with complementary skills and assets to create a sustainable business lasting longer than for this business period.

As a result, WAKA Fruits members were diversified in nationalities and skillsets, which is complementary and in every aspect reflecting our core values.

The ideation phase took us about 12 weeks; however, we used the Lean Startup method with design thinking and connecting a problem/opportunity with a solution/idea. After pitching the concept in front of a panel with a prototype and showcasing our capabilities. We initiated all processes and operations simultaneously.

I introduced to project management software and lead most of the meetings with an agenda. Of which, I developed the role of a facilitator. However, on reflection, I am very keen to motivate and encourage my other business partners, who have not the expertise or knowledge in my field to drive to personal success. Either on their edge, which is strengthening their strengths or expanding their skills and minimising their weaknesses.

In General purpose, I provided my in-depth knowledge in the finance and operations department. This was very handy at building up all processes an organisation has to fulfil, rather than focusing on our expertise. Additionally, my networking skills enabled us to connect with many businesses and experts, who gave us very useful advises. One outcome was combining with a local restaurant, who permitted us access to their production and storage facilities for free. In exchange, we promote the restaurant on campus.

Of which, I came up with the idea to create theme-nights, such as WAKA nights, that is a student party run by us as event host. There is much support and drive behind this project, but also financial expenditures. Which, we covered mostly on a tight budget, but we will pitch for seed funding for expansion in front of an advisory board by the end of April. A lot to come – looking forward to it.