In a captivating interview conducted by Ms. Snelisiwe Hlongwane, the Marketing Officer of DUT CSERI, the vibrant energy of business incubation is brought to life through a conversation with Seshme Holloway, the visionary founder and CEO of JRS Solutions. With a recent accolade as the Best 2022 IT Solution of the Year award recipient and a dedicated team of 14 employees, Holloway shares the remarkable journey of her security solutions empire and the pivotal role played by the CSERI Incubation Programme in her success.
The business idea behind JRS Solutions emerged in 2008, when Irwin and Seshme Holloway decided to combine their extensive technical and administrative experience, amounting to over 25 years in the industry. The initial challenge they faced as a new company was gaining a foothold and establishing a solid client base. However, with their relentless determination, JRS Solutions has now firmly positioned itself in the industry and witnessed a growing client base.
Offering a wide range of services, JRS Solutions specializes in Integrated Security Solutions, encompassing CCTV, ACCESS CONTROL, and PORT AUTOMATION. Holloway and his team are driven by an unwavering passion to introduce innovative methods and advanced technologies that meet the unique needs of their clients.
When asked about the motivation behind joining the CSERI Incubation Programme, Holloway commends DUT-CSERI for its exceptional program, highlighting its personal investment in their business and its continuous efforts to identify opportunities for assistance tailored to their individual needs. The incubation program has proven immensely beneficial, providing access to market, procurement portals, the Growth Wheel Platform, and an extensive network of inspiring entrepreneurs. Moreover, JRS Solutions seized the opportunity to become a Durban University of Technology (DUT) Service Provider which contributed a lot on the company turnover. These invaluable opportunities have propelled their growth, resulting in a remarkable 69% increase in turnover by the end of the financial year and the expansion of their workforce to 14 employees.
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Holloway offers sage advice to aspiring entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the importance of embracing learning opportunities throughout the journey, remaining open to new ideas and experiences. Furthermore, she underscores the significance of resilience in bouncing back from adversity and using challenges as catalysts for personal and professional growth. Holloway humbly acknowledges that unexpected growth often emerges from the unlikeliest of places and encourages entrepreneurs to empower others, recognizing the value of those who have mentored and supported them along the way.
The story of JRS Solutions is a testament to the power of business incubation and the transformative impact it can have on entrepreneurial ventures. Holloway’s remarkable achievements and the continuous support provided by the Centre Incubation Programme illustrate the profound excitement and potential that lie within this thriving ecosystem. Aspiring entrepreneurs are invited to follow in Holloway’s footsteps, embracing the spirit of growth and empowerment that permeates the world of business incubation.
Image : From Left: Mr. Irwin Holloway and Mrs. Seshme Holloway Directors of JRS Solutions.
