Dr. Charles Apoki’s wife, Mrs. Felicia Apoki, shares her journey in the school business and offers advice on how to succeed. She explains that she began her career in nursing to align with her husband’s vision, but her true passion was always teaching. When her husband decided to leave medical practice, she followed his lead and embraced her passion.
The Apokis’ Journey in Education
Mrs. Apoki recounts the challenges they faced when starting their school. At first, they had only five students, including their own child. They faced opposition from the Ministry of Education and even received verbal abuse from some parents who accused them of running an illegal school. Despite these obstacles, they persevered.
She credits their success to three key principles: focus, consistency, and sacrifice. You must be fully committed to your goal and understand that it won’t be easy at the beginning. She emphasizes that you must be willing to make sacrifices, as they did by handling every task themselves—from driving the school bus to cleaning the toilets.
Advice for Aspiring School Owners
For anyone considering starting a school business, Mrs. Apoki offers the following advice:
- Don’t be afraid to start small. They began with just five children, and that humble start gave them the foundation they needed to grow.
- Be focused and consistent. Once you’ve made the decision to start, you must remain committed to your vision, no matter what challenges you encounter. She also highlights the importance of continuous improvement, making sure to introduce something new to the school every year to prevent stagnation.
- Be prepared to make sacrifices. You might have to take on multiple roles and do things you never expected, but this dedication is essential for growth.
- Keep your eye on the future. Mrs. Apoki shares that the same Ministry of Education officials who once harassed them now invite her to give lectures to principals. This transformation is a testament to the power of perseverance.
The Apokis’ story is an inspiring example of how passion and unwavering focus can turn a small, difficult beginning into a successful enterprise. Mrs. Apoki’s journey from a reluctant nurse to a respected educator proves that with the right mindset, anyone can build something meaningful.
