[Entrepreneurs Impact 17] Journey Earl Thijm

Childhood of Earl Thijm “Do what you say, then you won’t lie.” Earl Thijm was born to Ursila Norine Thijm and Henk Blijd. He grew up with a stepfather, Edmund Neijman, who played the role of father and father figure to Earl and his siblings. Earl Thijm, also known as Simpel, was born on August 22, 1971. He is a husband to an amazing wife, a father of two children, and a grandfather of one grandchild. Earl comes from a family of nine children, consisting of 2 girls and 7 boys, two of whom have passed away, including his twin pair. It was a challenging time for him, but ultimately Earl was able to find closure and move forward with life. As a brother, he witnessed firsthand the suffering his brother had to endure. The suffering was heavier than his brother’s passing. Thus, the family had to make a choice about what was best for him at that time. Seeing someone suffer is worse than seeing them pass away. Earl grew up in Kwatta, a neighborhood in the West of Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, and enjoyed his childhood years there. Kwatta was a peaceful neighborhood that was quite livable. Alongside neighborhood friends, he played house, stole fruits, pocketed items from stores without the shopkeeper noticing (since there were no cameras back then), and occasionally skipped school. Earl lives by the quote, “Do what you say, then you won’t lie.” He values this because he believes it’s important for people to keep their word. Just do what you say, and then you won’t lie. If you’re not going to do it, don’t say it. His hobbies include watching TV and being in nature. Earl practiced karate in the past and occasionally played soccer, although not on a team. His educational journey began at Aloysius School, then St. Vincentius School, Wulfingh School, and KuldipsinghSchool. He then attended Cabelschool, IMEAO, and finally Surinaams Pedagogisch Instituut (SPI). He was placed in the transition class at IMEAO, which he did not complete. At that point, SPI  was the only option. He continued at SPI until the second year, also serving as a class representative. He was very energetic and cherished his school days. If he could turn back time, he would still be in school. He particularly enjoyed his high school years and had a great relationship with his teachers. While home offered a different upbringing, school provided a lot of freedom, and he caused quite a bit of mischief during his time there.   His Impact Earl’s journey began with selling popsicles at the same pedagogical institute where he was a student. While waiting for a call from the Suriname Police Corps, where he had applied, he started selling popsicles to support himself. Often, God has a different plan for our lives; things don’t just happen by chance. Despite passing all the tests, Earl was never called by the Suriname Police Corps. During this wait, the Bonjo Boys group emerged as a football team and later transitioned into a music group. Earl was never one to sit idle. He always wanted to do something. To support his family, he began making and selling popsicles. Eventually, he became an artist, writing, recording, and selling songs with his best friend in the Bonjo Boys. In their prime, the group embarked on a tour to the Netherlands, which unfortunately failed due to the organizer’s different intentions. After the tour, the band broke up, and Earl had to find a way to support himself. To make ends meet, he worked as a gas station attendant and later at Kasimex, a trading company in Kwatta. He then moved to a lottery office before starting to rent sound equipment to bands needing to perform, which led to the creation of ‘Tap A Bankstel.’Through ‘Tap A Bankstel,’ Earl honors and values individuals who have gone through significant life experiences to reach where they are today. Drawing from his own struggles, Earl understands the importance of recognition and experience when striving for personal growth and future generations’ well-being. He acknowledges that even those in high positions faced challenges on their journey. The program’s ‘lighthearted’ conversations allow Earl to better understand his guests and the struggles they’ve endured. It aims to introduce the person behind the title, approaching guests informally. This platform fills the void of recognition sometimes missing in their immediate surroundings, providing an opportunity to know the individual behind their accomplishments.Since his youth, Earl has had a close friend, Steven ‘Wesje’ Westmaas, with whom he founded the Bonjo Boys. They discussed everything and learned a lot from each other. Sadly, Steven passed away tragically on April 23, 2011, which was a profound loss for Earl. One lesson Earl carries from his friend is leaving a mark wherever you go so people notice and remember you. Earl made his mark with the program he started, which is now a social foundation and led to the creation of Simply, a sandwich restaurant that serves breakfast and more. Growth through Experience As a young and inexperienced newcomer, Earl Thijm embarked on a new TV program—an innovation both for himself and for Suriname. During that time, a gossip website named Mamjo was actively discussing him and his program. He was the subject of gossip, most of which was critical of his methods, style of questioning, and the program’s general originality for Suriname. . Many felt his questions were too bold, with one of the harshest criticisms being, “Even my six-year-old daughter could ask better questions.” Initially, dealing with this criticism was quite challenging for him. However, it profoundly impacted him, prompting Earl to learn how to handle criticism and master the craft of hosting. Earl began his journey with Louis Vismale, who believed in him when no one else did and provided crucial support. The director of SCCN Television Station shared this belief in Earl and the potential success of his program, granting him three months of free airtime purely out of faith

Childhood of Rosita Leeflang Rosita Leeflang is a journalist, an entrepreneur, and most recently, a junior historian. She was born on July 14th, the daughter of Erwin Leeflang and Elisabeth Lynch. Growing up, Rosita lived in a home with her mother, who looked after seven children: three girls and four boys, one of whom has since died. Rosita frequently uses the word “IMPOSSIBLE” in her presentations. She translates it as “I am possible” and uses it as inspiration to prove to others that she can achieve their seemingly impossible goals.  She enjoys reading, traveling, listening to music, traveling with friends, and interacting with people in person. Rosita was raised in Flora-A and had a colorful upbringing. Her mother constantly met the needs of the kids despite having little money. The youngsters treasured the clothing Elisabeth sewed every day and thought it was the most beautiful thing in the world. Playing outside was a common part of childhood, and there was always food on the table. When they could afford it, she inspired and encouraged the kids to do well in school. Rosita grew up spending her summers with her father, a builder, who frequently brought her along for the ride in the back of his pickup truck. She climbed trees in the forest with her brothers and the boys from the neighborhood. That was one of the fun parts of her childhood. Rosita attended St. Jozef Girls’ School on Johan Adolf Pengelstraat, which later became a school that was open for everyone. She attended the Algemene Middelbare School (AMS) after finishing her studies at the W.J. Ritfeld School. At the elementary school she had the honored role of a traffic warden, stopping cars so children could cross safely. Another fond memory were the annual trips to Kraka. Rosita was also part of the school choir. On December 8, 1982, the choir was scheduled to perform at a school choir festival in the Ismay van Wilgen Sports Hall. Her mother had made a beautiful blue ball dress for her. Determining to take part in the festival, she decided to walk to school that morning after discovering that no buses were running. She was sent back home by a woman who stopped her along the road. She returned with tears in her eyes, to find her mother relieved to see her after the devastating events during that period. Despite being told, she didn’t quite understand what was going on at the time. She experienced secondary school as a great experience as well. Her high school at the Algemene Middelbare School (AMS) was so fun that it took her 5 years to complete a 3-year program. She made lifelong friends there. Her motto in school has always been to finish what she started. Her Impact Rosita’s very first job came just 2 weeks after she graduated from high school. She started at the headquarters of Hakrinbank in the foreign department. In those 8 months, she discovered that working in a financial institution was not her calling. Rosita and finances have a love-hate relationship. Despite others considering her crazy for leaving what was seen as a good job at the time, she decided to quit after 8 months. She then moved to the Pater Ahlbrinck Foundation; a non-governmental organization dedicated to the development of people in the interior. During her time there, the organization worked extensively with Haitians migrating to Suriname to live and work, helping them find their way in the country.  Through this close collaboration, she gained more respect for those coming to Suriname from abroad. Rosita spent a year with the foundation and then found herself unemployed for two months. During this period, her mother advised her to apply to the Suriname Broadcasting Foundation (SRS), as her mother listened to SRS all day, every day. This led to a heated debate between them, which her mother eventually won. Two months later, her mother, in true Surinamese fashion as Rosita describes her, asked about the status of her application and whether she intended to follow through. After following up with SRS, it turned out they never received Rosita’s application letter. She had to start the process over and write a new letter. Eventually, she was hired on the condition of two months without pay since she was new to the job. Within a month, Rosita proved she had sufficient skills to be paid. This marked her first media job. About 25 years ago, she was asked to present the news at the General Television Station (ATV). Later, she was invited to work at one of the largest newspapers at the time, ‘De Ware Tijd,’ where she remained for eleven years. At one point, the director of De Ware Tijd decided that all freelancers should work from home, allowing her a lot of free time. Roseternal Media was the name she had long envisioned for her company. After registering it with the KKF, she ventured into entrepreneurship without fully understanding what it entailed. Due to her passion for organizing, she transformed it into a production company. In 2025, Roseternal Media will celebrate its 15th anniversary. With her experience as a journalist, Rosita heard many complaints about disorganization in Suriname and misconceptions about how things were run. Through Roseternal Media, she aims to showcase the existence of quality organizations in Suriname capable of producing high caliber shows, concerts, and events, proving that professionalism is indeed present. Roseternal Media also contributes to Suriname by giving Kaseko a place in the music industry locally and globally. Rosita believes entrepreneurs should give back to the community and actively engages with youth, a longstanding commitment. Initially unintentional, her efforts to promote Kaseko led her to pursue further studies and encourage young people to explore their history. Apart from her media work, Rosita is deeply involved in social work through her foundation, Develop Art Foundation (DAF), and collaborates with friends on projects related to the environment and Kaseko through the Kaseko Foundation. Additionally, she volunteers at the St. Petrus

Digital Business: The Rise of Digital Learning and OneShot Platforms Introduction In the era of digital transformation, businesses are leveraging technology to create new opportunities and redefine their operations. One such area that has seen significant growth is Digital Learning. This blog post will explore the concept of digital learning and how the OneShot platform is revolutionizing this space. The Power of Digital Learning Digital learning is the use of digital technologies to create an educational environment where individuals can learn and grow. It has transformed the traditional classroom setting, making education more accessible and flexible. With digital learning, geographical boundaries are no longer a barrier, and learning can happen anytime, anywhere. OneShot Platforms: A New Era of Learning OneShot platforms are at the forefront of this digital learning revolution. They provide a platform where experts in various fields can share their knowledge and skills with a wider audience. These platforms are not just about consuming content; they are about creating a community of learners and educators. Become an Instructor on OneShot OneShot is always looking for passionate individuals who are eager to share their expertise and make a difference in people’s lives. By becoming an instructor on OneShot, you have the opportunity to reach a local audience and beyond. Teaching on OneShot is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about inspiring others to learn and grow. Whether you’re an expert in coding, digital marketing, graphic design, or any other field, OneShot provides you with the tools to create engaging and effective courses. Conclusion The digital business landscape is ever-evolving, and digital learning platforms like OneShot are leading the way. By bridging the gap between educators and learners, they are creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow. So why wait? Register as an instructor on OneShot today and start making a difference!

Navigating Cost and Price Comparisons in the Digital Business Landscape In the dynamic realm of modern business, digital technologies are pivotal for success. From cloud-based software to e-commerce platforms, organizations must meticulously evaluate costs and pricing models to drive informed decisions. Let’s delve deeper into the critical considerations for conducting cost comparisons in the digital business sphere: 1. Subscription vs. Pay-Per-Use Models In the digital arena, various tools offer subscription-based pricing or pay-per-use models. Understanding the nuances of each is crucial: – Subscription Model: Businesses pay a fixed fee (monthly or annually) to access the software or service. This model provides cost predictability but may prove expensive if the service remains underutilized. – Pay-Per-Use Model: Organizations pay based on actual usage metrics, such as per transaction, per user, or per data volume. While inherently flexible, costs can escalate with increased utilization. 2. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Going beyond the surface price, calculating the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is imperative. TCO encompasses various components, including: – License Fees: Initial purchase cost. – Implementation Costs: Expenses related to setup, training, and customization. – Maintenance and Support: Ongoing expenses required for upkeep. – Integration Costs: Efforts associated with connecting the new system with existing infrastructure. 3. Hidden Costs Identifying and accounting for hidden expenses is vital: – Upgrades: Regular updates may entail additional costs. – Data Migration: Transitioning from legacy systems can be a costly endeavor. – Security Measures: Safeguarding digital assets necessitates ongoing investment. 4. Vendor Comparisons Conducting a comprehensive assessment of different vendors is key: – Features: Compare the breadth and depth of functionalities offered. – Scalability: Evaluate how well the solution can accommodate future growth. – Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Assess the quality of support and resolution times. – Vendor Reputation: Investigate customer reviews and the vendor’s reliability.  5. ROI and Value Proposition Calculating the Return on Investment (ROI) is essential: – Efficiency Gains: Determine if the tool can streamline processes and workflows. – Revenue Increase: Evaluate its potential to boost sales or enhance customer engagement. – Cost Savings: Compare the solution against manual or less efficient alternatives. Conclusion In the digital business landscape, conducting thorough cost and price comparisons is indispensable for making well-informed choices. It’s crucial to consider both immediate expenses and long-term implications. Remember, the most cost-effective option might not always align with business objectives; prioritize value and strategic alignment when making decisions. By adopting a holistic approach to cost assessment, organizations can leverage digital tools to optimize operations and drive sustainable growth.

A SURINAMESE company is keen on entering into partnerships with three local companies following engagements on Day One of the “Together We Win Business Network (TWWBN)” small business conference and exhibition on July 15 – 17, 2022, at MovieTowne Guyana. According to the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Archer Business Group, Renato Archer, he has seen several potential investment opportunities in Guyana, and engagements have already been started to finalise agreements for mutual development. Archer noted that his company, OneShot International, which is based in the United States, is working to support the growth of companies in the digital space. He said that with the evolution of digital technology, the time is right for Guyanese companies to make the transition. “Our company is supporting entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses throughout the whole world, with the focus being the United Stated. So, keep in mind that you can be in Guyana, and still earn money from the United States or other parts of the world. So, we’re doing a lot of investment; we’ve already met with three bright entrepreneurs that we will be doing business with, so that’s a really good thing,” Archer said. These partnerships at the conference come on the heels of a partnership between TWWBN and a Surinamese private sector body.The TWWBN and the Alliance of Business Associations in Suriname, in March 2022, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to boost local business capacity, while significantly promoting joint investment opportunities. The MoC describes intended cooperation between members of both networks in the areas of trade, business development, strategic alliances, joint ventures, joint investments, and joint internationalisation.Archer said that one of the businesses his company is pursuing a partnership with is a local board game manufacturing company, which he intends to bring to new markets through the use of his company’s digital technology. “What we’re planning to do with this company is invest first to expand its reach, and then we’re going to make a digital version of that game to bring it on a website or global app, and then take it global,” Archer related.He added that the plan is to expand first within the Caribbean region, and then to the United States and other markets. Speaking about the numerous investment opportunities he has seen since being in Guyana, Archer said: “Guyana is doing pretty good.”He said he has seen many businesses that have good concepts and operations that require partnerships and innovation to be taken to the next level. “The entrepreneurs from Suriname are really interested in doing business here… there will be actually a lot more companies coming soon as well, it has been very beneficial so far…. It’s really important that what we see what is happening in this region, that we tap in and jump in early to make sure that we all benefit from the opportunities here,” Archer said. He added that he is also representing another company at the Business Conference and Expo and noted that that company, Arrow Business Academy, which is an online platform that connects qualified professionals with learners, is eager to collaborate with Guyanese to foster partnerships that would be mutually beneficial to both parties.

We have launched the latest digital business platform for Suriname, Guyana and the US. In this first phase, we immediately grow into a market of more than 330 million potential customers. It is a true enrichment for digital businesses, so grow with it. Join the platform via www.oneshot.sr and start, build and grow your digital business! #oneshot #digitalbusiness #EveryOpportunity

“Local content starts with a local identity” was one of the key remarks from the Chairman of the ICT Association Suriname, Mr. Anvit Ramlakhan at the Launch of the OneShot Digital Business Acceleration Platform. The Chairman shared key insights on the Suriname ICT Vision 2030 and ended the opening speech with a quote from Albert Einstein: “Execution without strategy is blind, and strategy without execution is Lame”. “Let’s lot be Blind and let’s not be Lame, but let’s work together to grow the economy of Suriname (and other developing countries) via Digital Business Acceleration” – Anvit Ramlakhan About OneShot: OneShot International is a Digital Business Accelerator focused on supporting people with bright business or social ideas in developing countries to scale and make a change in the world. Build your digital business presence on the OneShot platform via www.oneshot.sr for: *Business networking with entrepreneurs, startups, mentors and coaches worldwide; *International business resources to help you build and develop your international product or service; *Investment opportunities: pitch for investors and get company valuation which can grant u investments if your concept is internationally scalable, has tremendous business potential and value to the society. *more coming soon- Join the digital business platform www.oneshot.sr NOW! If u missed the presentations of the Launch in Suriname you can still follow the 45 min video on youtube: “OneShot International Business Event”. #oneshot #everyopportunity #digitalbusiness

In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving world, entrepreneurship has become more than just a buzzword. It has emerged as a pathway to personal and professional fulfillment, offering countless opportunities for growth, innovation, and financial independence. If you have ever entertained the idea of starting your own business, this blog post is for you. We will explore the compelling reasons why taking the entrepreneurial leap can be a life-changing decision. Pursue Your Passion: Starting your own business allows you to follow your passion and turn it into a profitable venture. Unlike traditional employment, where you may be limited to a specific role or industry, entrepreneurship empowers you to create something meaningful based on your interests and strengths. By aligning your work with your passions, you are more likely to find fulfillment and motivation, leading to a higher quality of life. Embrace Independence: One of the most enticing aspects of entrepreneurship is the freedom it offers. As a business owner, you have the autonomy to make decisions, set your own schedule, and shape the direction of your company. This level of independence allows you to escape the constraints of a 9-to-5 job and fully explore your potential. Moreover, you have the power to create a company culture that aligns with your values and vision. Unlimited Growth Opportunities: Starting your own business presents a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth. As an entrepreneur, you are constantly learning and adapting, facing new challenges, and acquiring new skills. This dynamic environment forces you to step out of your comfort zone and develop a versatile skill set. Whether it’s in marketing, finance, leadership, or negotiation, the learning curve is steep, but the rewards are limitless. Financial Rewards: While financial gain shouldn’t be the sole motivator for starting a business, entrepreneurship offers the potential for substantial financial rewards. By building a successful enterprise, you can create a stable income stream and achieve financial security. Additionally, as the owner, you have the ability to control your financial destiny, with the opportunity to scale your business and multiply your earnings. Impact and Legacy: Entrepreneurship provides a platform to make a positive impact on society. By solving problems, addressing unmet needs, or improving existing products and services, you can shape the world around you. Through your business, you have the power to create jobs, contribute to the economy, and inspire others. The legacy you leave behind can extend far beyond your immediate reach, making a lasting difference in the lives of others. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: For many, achieving a healthy work-life balance is a constant struggle. However, as an entrepreneur, you have the opportunity to design a work environment that supports your personal needs and priorities. While starting a business requires dedication and hard work, it also allows you to create a schedule that suits your lifestyle. This flexibility enables you to spend more time with loved ones, pursue hobbies, and prioritize self-care. Conclusion: Starting your own business is a transformative journey that offers numerous advantages and rewards. It enables you to pursue your passion, attain independence, and experience personal and professional growth. The financial benefits, impact on society, and the ability to design your own work-life balance further strengthen the case for entrepreneurship. While the road to success may be challenging, the possibilities are endless. So, if you have a vision, a passion, and a desire for autonomy, don’t hesitate—take the leap and embark on the incredible adventure of entrepreneurship. Join the fastest growing community with startups, SMEs, Entrepreneurs and promote your product or service for FREE. Register NOW OneShot Media Need Business Advise? Book a FREE 15 Minute meeting HERE:

The decision to stay in your job or start your own business is a deeply personal one that requires careful consideration. Making this Choice for Your Future is becoming a very important one. Both options have their advantages and challenges, and what works for one person may not work for another. In the past period, several people have been wondering if the typical office hours is really how they should spend the rest of their life. Especially since COVID quality of life and spending time with your loved ones has become a more important topic than before. Several people have experienced that working from home is possible and the way we have been doing things before can be tailored and adjusted in their favor. Nevertheless, this choice stays personal regardless and there are several factors to take into account while you consider making this important decision: Risk Tolerance: Starting your own business inherently carries more risk than staying in a job. Entrepreneurship often involves financial uncertainty, long hours, and a steep learning curve. If you have a high tolerance for risk and thrive in a dynamic environment, starting your own business may be a thrilling and rewarding path to pursue. However, if you prefer stability and a predictable income, staying in your job may provide a sense of security. Passion and Purpose: Consider your level of passion and fulfillment in your current job. If you feel unfulfilled or lack enthusiasm for your work, starting your own business can offer the opportunity to pursue your passions and create a business aligned with your values. Entrepreneurship allows you to have greater control over your professional life and the freedom to build something meaningful. Financial Considerations: Evaluate your financial situation and assess whether you have the necessary resources to start a business. Starting a business often requires financial investment, especially in the early stages when profitability may not be immediate. Consider your savings, access to capital, and potential income sources when deciding if you can sustain yourself during the initial stages of your business. Skills and Expertise: Assess your skills, experience, and expertise in relation to your business idea. Starting a business often requires a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of the industry you plan to enter. If you possess the necessary skills or are willing to acquire them, starting your own business can be a platform to leverage your strengths and build something unique. On the other hand, staying in your job can allow you to further develop your skills and gain valuable experience. Lifestyle and Work-Life Balance: Consider the lifestyle and work-life balance you desire. Entrepreneurship can be demanding, requiring long hours and dedication. Starting your own business may offer flexibility and the ability to create a work-life balance that suits your needs. However, it can also blur the lines between work and personal life, requiring significant commitment and sacrifice. Support Network: Assess the availability of a support network. Starting a business can be challenging, and having a strong support system can provide guidance, mentorship, and emotional support. Evaluate whether you have access to mentors, entrepreneurial communities, or experienced individuals who can offer advice and support. Ultimately, the decision to stay in your job or start your own business depends on your individual goals, preferences, and circumstances. Consider your risk tolerance, passion, financial situation, skills, desired lifestyle, and available support. Remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer, and the best choice may vary from person to person. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate your options, weigh the pros and cons, and make a decision that aligns with your long-term vision and aspirations. Join the fastest-growing community with startups, SMEs, and Entrepreneurs and promote your product or service for FREE. Register NOW OneShot Media Need Business Advice? Book a FREE 15-minute meeting HERE:

In-person training has long been a traditional and effective method for learning and skill development. However, it also comes with its fair share of challenges that can hinder progress and limit the potential for growth. To take your training initiatives to the next level, it’s crucial to address and overcome these challenges. Here are some common challenges associated with in-person training : 1. Limited Accessibility: In-person training is often limited by geographical constraints, making it difficult for individuals in remote locations to participate. 2. Time and Scheduling Conflicts: Coordinating schedules among trainers and participants can be a significant challenge in in-person training. 3. High Costs: In-person training can be expensive due to venue rentals, travel expenses, and materials. 4. Lack of Personalization: In a traditional in-person training setting, it can be challenging to cater to the individual learning needs of participants. 5. Limited Scalability: In-person training can be challenging to scale, particularly when training large groups or expanding to a broader audience. 6. Measurement and Evaluation: Assessing the effectiveness and impact of in-person training can be difficult. 7. Adapting to Changing Needs: In-person training may lack the agility needed to adapt quickly to evolving training requirements. By addressing these challenges and embracing innovative training approaches, you can elevate your training business to the next level. OneShot will share the NEXT LEVEL Solution in the Training Industry to Boost Training businesses in Suriname, Guyana and others in South-America on July, 10th 2023 Join the webinar: CLICK HERE OneShot Media Need Business Advise? Book a FREE 15 Minute meeting HERE: