The trials of running own business

Vivian Ojal’s business deals with talent acquisition and management, or a “staffing agency” as she simplifies it.

Her 5-year-old company – which at the time of this interview had just gotten a major American partner (AMADA) – is also dedicated to acquiring, developing and retaining talent to meet the needs of organisations that require exceptional business performance.

She was among the 40 women under 40 featured in this newspaper early 2011.

She is articulate, brilliant and wildly driven. And she admits that 2011 was a tough year as she speaks about the hardship of running a business, her passion for the industry and her enthusiasm and hopes for 2012.

Vivian shows up for this interview with a monstrous black Rottweiler, called Mojo, in tow.

Our photographer gasps in awe.

In her office, which is empty on a Saturday morning, she commands, “Sit!” and Mojo sits down (so do I) and not once during the interview does he move

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My word, how many kilograms does this dog weigh?

Mojo, like me, weighs 56kgs. He is a pedigree. We bought him (for Sh80,000) from an English lady who, before selling him, had to visit our house for two months to make sure the dog was getting a decent home and owners. He will be turning three in June. He’s still a baby.

A baby? Are you kidding me! He looks all grown up to me! What does he normally eat, a goat?

(Laughs) Actually he’s never had meat.

Oh, is Mojo a practicing vegetarian?

(Laughs) No, he isn’t a vegetarian. He eats the dog food, Kibble, which are nutritious dog pellets. We also, once in a while, buy him bones from Farmer’s Choice.

Mojo might not be conscious of his weight, but are you?