Father as Role Model in Business

Right from childhood, Joseph Pereira had a desire to be in business. He had seen his father run a flourishing agriculture-based business.

In 1972, he came to Bombay after completing his engineering. In 1979, he attempted to start a business without money. He started it and established it to some extent. However, he got an opportunity to go abroad for 5 years and took it.

In 1992, he started his business to fulfill his long-cherished desire from childhood. The beginning was very difficult. He had a lot of technical capability and others encashed it. Eg. He was offered a host of perks and benefits but very little remuneration. He realized he was working hard for some else and limiting his own growth and prosperity. After 14 years he quit his job and worked full-time in his own business. Once he came out of a job, he enjoyed his freedom. He felt he had learnt lessons the hard way.

Initially, it was lucrative to be in business; however once the recession came he experienced a slowdown in the business. His greatest satisfaction is accomplishing targets. Through the quality of his work, he earned a lot of goodwill. Most of his clients insisted on his services after experiencing his contribution. “Joseph gives the best way” they reiterate.

The lessons he has learnt are never to go after money; rather to work with unwavering commitment. He feels elders must encourage the youth to get into business. It’s time he avers that Christian Businesspersons actively come together to practically support each other with mentoring and financial support.
(As narrated to Raymond D’$ouza, Business Coach – Turning Passion into Prosperity)

Mr Joseph Pereira is CEO, Mema Control System

This interview appeared in the Nov 2011 edition of the CCCI Newsletter.