First Eggs, Then
Rocks?
“Rocks!!! Rocks???
Wait....Rocks??? Are you serious!!!!”
Cholula (Puebla) Mexico is a fabulous place. The
people of Puebla are much different than those found in Mexico City—not just
physically, but emotionally they are more closed off. In fact, I have come to
know the most popular belief/saying of Puebla: “If you can start a business
and succeed in Puebla, you can then take it to the rest of the Republic of
Mexico. We (Poblanos—people of Puebla) are the hardest customers!” When I
heard this, I knew that the students needed to learn right away that they can
do it, even though they live in Puebla!!! This challenge made for a very
interesting moment for our students: just as we sent our students in Mexico
City out to change their egg for better products, today we sent the students
out with, none other than, a rock!
The students were
incredulous and shocked. They could not fathom the idea that they were expected
to go out in groups and turn their rock into CASH! We structured this project a
little bit differently than with the egg project in Mexico City. First of all,
we had the students in groups instead of individuals. We divided the groups in
the following manner: The first people to be “captains” (though not designated
as a captain) were the brothers and sisters who own a business with more than
five employees. Then we aggregated a member to each of the “captains”--each
member was an individual with NO business experience. Then we added another
member to each of the nine groups—those individuals were students who currently
are self-proprietorships. Eventually all the teams were put together and the
students were really happy...and nervous. However, this format of teams allowed
the students to get to know one another right away. Additionally, having one or
two businessmen in their groups allowed for the non-current business “owners”
to immediately receive instruction and help from their more experienced
counterparts. Also, as Israel Gomez said:
“I have worked in
my parents’ family-owned business for five years and I have a degree in
Business Management. I was shocked to see that the two non-business owners in my
group were the ones that out-sold the other business owner and myself in our
group! I learned that I have so much to change and I admired my two
non-business owners so much. I respect them so much. I learned that I need to
lose my pride and learn from everyone here.”
After a three
hour long activity, to see the humility and love from men like Israel truly set
the tone for this group. That being said, this group of students has been (by
far) the most advanced group in Mexico. This is something that we knew coming
into Puebla, but it is motivating and challenging. We hope that these
individuals (all of them) heed the example set forth by Israel Gomez and
continue to learn from one another. For me, these are lessons that change
lives—what a powerful thing.
Needless to say,
every group came back with MUCH more than a rock and MUCH more than just
monetary valued. The non-business owners had immediate mentors. They began to
see that they too could do it. Current “successful” business owners found out
that they had MUCH more to learn. All in all, in less than three hours of work
and trading, the entire group (all of us) had a total of 800 pesos ($80 USD).
In inventory, the total amount of “money” we had was estimated to be about
$5,000 pesos ($500 USD). Once we all collected and shared our experiences, we
were amazed at the success. The students were thrilled. They began to believe
in themselves. Collectively, 9 rocks had been turned into an estimated $580
USD. They began to see that: 1) Starting/doing is critical, 2) In order to
start a small business, it is NOT necessary to have a bulk of capital, and 3)
There are always people that will help you as you start a small business.
In closing, the
students will continue to work on their businesses. They will have two hours allotted/provided
to them in which they can collaborate on their businesses. On Monday, June 14th,
they will have to “Report”. In order to help them grow/progress, they were
given the assignment to 1) Set a financial goal and 2) Establish specific roles
(i.e. Director, Treasurer, Secretary, etc.). We felt that having this “sales
game” will help all the students apply each of the rules of thumb immediately
in their “business”. For the current business owners, who appear to be
successful financially, we are so grateful that Jeff Brownlow will be coming
down to help them each in their businesses. Jeff's participation is truly going
to be the answers to the prayers of these men and women.
I want to express
to each of you the love of the students. Also, I would be remiss if I did not
fully compliment Lars Hamilton on his outstanding support and efforts. He is
doing great work. He is structured, organized, punctual, and all around great.
His experiences have benefited the students so much. But, more than anything
else, it is Lars's love for the people that most qualifies him for this work.
He loves the people and they naturally gravitate to Lars. They respect him and
when he teaches they take copious notes and ask great questions. I have enjoyed
greatly being with Lars and learning from him.
Lastly, I want
each of you to know that we understand and fully comprehend that none of these
experiences would be transpiring if it were not for the generosity of each of
you. Because you are willing to share your time, your resources, and your
talents, families will receive more blessings. Thank you all, each of you, for
all that you have done. I look forward to seeing our students progress. I know
that they can do it. More importantly, they know (and are beginning to know)
that they can do it. After all, an egg you can eat, “but what can we do with a
rock. I mean, it is not worth anything!!!”
Un fuerte abrazo,
Jeremi Brewer