By: Awa Conteh
Welcome to another inspiring episode of Meet The Gambian Trailblazers, where we spotlight Gambians redefining the landscape of success in The Gambia and beyond. In today’s episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Bubacarr Jaiteh, a visionary entrepreneur whose unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation is reshaping the real estate industry in the country. Join us as we explore the transformative power of perseverance and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream.
Born and raised in Fajikunda, Bubacarr Jaiteh’s journey into entrepreneurship was shaped by the humble beginnings of my childhood.
“Growing up amidst the streets of Fajikunda, I learned the values of hard work and perseverance from my parents. My father, a dedicated businessman selling fabrics, instilled in me the importance of resilience, while my mother, a homemaker with a side hustle, taught me the art of entrepreneurship from a tender age as I helped her sell. Little did I know that these early experiences would lay the foundation for my future endeavors,” he told TAT.
After completing his education at renowned institutions such as St. Charles Luwanga Lower Basic School, Charles Jow Memorial Academy, and Gambia Methodist Academy, Mr Jaiteh embarked on a journey of higher learning. Despite his aspirations to become a medical doctor, fate had other plans for him. A scholarship he earned led him to pursue an Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) degree in India. This unexpected turn of events might prompt a chuckle—imagine an electrical engineer turned entrepreneur in the real estate industry!
With its fiercely competitive academic landscape, India became a new challenge in Bubacarr’s pursuit of higher education. Surrounded by aspiring engineers, he honed his skills and embraced the spirit of competition.
He told The Alkamba Times, ‘The experience abroad not only enriched my academic pursuits but also instilled in me a drive for excellence and a thirst for knowledge. ‘
Upon returning to his homeland, The Gambia, Mr Jaiteh joined the National Water and Electricity Company Limited (NAWEC) as an engineer. He provided invaluable insights into office ethics, managerial dynamics, and strategic decision-making processes. As he navigated the company’s corridors, he gleaned insights that would later be pillars for his entrepreneurial journey.
But the entrepreneurial spark had already kindled in him, driven by an unquenchable curiosity and a determination to bring about significant change. He discovered the idea of entrepreneurship halfway through his bachelor’s degree and was immediately drawn to its revolutionary possibilities. Talking passionately about business with a friend who understood it all, he explored the world of entrepreneurship.
Armed with newfound knowledge and a burning passion, Mr Jaiteh embarked on a quest to carve his niche in the real estate industry. He drew inspiration from the teachings of renowned financial guru Robert Kiyosaki and set his sights on real estate as a vehicle for wealth creation and societal impact.
The inception of Kerr Finder Real Estate Company Limited marked the culmination of years of relentless pursuit and unwavering determination. Initially conceived as a modest venture focusing on land sales and property management, Kerr Finder weathered its fair share of challenges in its early stages, which today serves as an experience that took us this far in competing with industry pioneers.
‘The early days were stressful with uncertainties, with limited experience and capital posing formidable obstacles. Despite setbacks and moments of despair, I remained steadfast in my resolve, drawing strength from the determined spirit of entrepreneurship’, Jaiteh said.
One of the defining moments in Kerr Finder’s journey was his decision to relinquish the comforts of a stable job and plunge headlong into the uncertain waters of entrepreneurship. This leap of faith was fueled by unwavering belief and an unshakeable commitment to Bubacarr’s vision.
He embarked on a journey of discovery, forging alliances and laying the groundwork for Kerr Finder’s ascent. With each transaction brokered and each plot of land acquired, Kerr Finder’s presence in the real estate landscape grew more pronounced.
Through unwavering persistence and meticulous attention to detail, Kerr Finder transcended its humble beginnings to emerge as a beacon of innovation and excellence in real estate. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and relentless pursuit of quality and innovation set them apart in a crowded marketplace. Over the years, Kerr Finder has evolved and expanded its footprint, leaving an indelible mark on the Gambian real estate landscape. From pioneering the Kerr Series to spearheading community development initiatives, they have remained steadfast in their mission to provide exceptional real estate solutions tailored to the needs of our clients.
‘Our success as entrepreneurs can be attributed to two key factors: persistence and attention to detail. In the face of adversity, we have persevered, undeterred by setbacks and obstacles, Bubacarr shared.
At Kerr Finder, every challenge has served as a stepping stone towards greater heights, reinforcing Mr Jaiteh and his team’s unwavering resolve and fortitude. Their commitment to excellence is manifested in meticulous attention to detail. From the architectural design of their properties to the execution of every project, they leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of perfection.
This relentless pursuit of quality has earned them the trust and admiration of their clients, cementing Kerr Finder’s reputation as a paragon of excellence in the real estate industry.
As we draw the curtains on this episode of Meet The Gambian Trailblazers, the story of Bubacarr Jaiteh serves as a powerful reminder of the potential within each of us to effect positive change through entrepreneurship. From humble beginnings to ambitious goals, his journey exemplifies the essence of resilience, innovation, and unwavering determination.
As he and Kerr Finder continue to forge ahead in their mission to build 1000 homes and beyond, let us all be inspired to embrace our dreams, overcome challenges, and leave a lasting legacy of excellence in our endeavors.