Life Asset celebrates the success of our clients, and this quarter we are highlighting Brian Conteh and Muinat Lawal, who own M&M International. This import/export business, based in Capitol Heights, Maryland, specializes in providing products from Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and Ghana to members of the African community across the U.S.
The path to owning a successful import/export business started for Brian and Muinat in 2014 when they saw a demand within the local African community for products not available in the U.S. In addition to importing small amounts of goods from Africa, they sold locally sourced meat and produce to members of the community. In 2018, Brian and Muinat opened a grocery store that also offered delivery within their community. Recognizing that there was a greater demand for delivery of the products they sell, M&M transitioned to their current import/export business, which has grown due through a strong social media presence and word-of-mouth.
Brian and Muinat credit Life Asset’s microloan and education programs for providing knowledge and financing that continue to help them grow their business. Low-interest financing from Life Asset has helped them pay for expanded inventory, which includes the import of palm oil that is widely used for products including shampoo, soaps, and lotions. Life Asset loans have also been instrumental in helping M&M pay for the licensing and permitting required to import and distribute palm oil to product makers across the United States. Recognizing they need a more consistent source of palm oil for their business, Brian and Muinat are establishing their own harvest and production facility in Sierra Leone, a process that is also being facilitated by support from Life Asset. Looking into the future, Brian and Muinat plan to build on their previous experience in the mental health field and establish a group home that will offer housing, day programs, and resources for individuals in the local African community with intellectual disabilities.
In speaking about the help that Life Asset has provided over the course of their journey, Muinat states:
Life Asset has been a great help to us! It’s good to have something like this in the community.
When asked about advice for other entrepreneurs, Brian emphasizes the need for a clear business plan, patience, and the importance of teamwork and community, including relationships with other successful entrepreneurs who offer guidance and inspiration. Brian also encourages other entrepreneurs to maintain a positive mindset telling others to:
Just believe in what you do. Believe in yourself and focus. The focus is the most important thing in business.
