Omar Mitchell - Driving a passion for business

Sheena Gayle, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

The spirit of entrepreneurship fuels 24-year-old Omar Mitchell, whose new venture, Highway Escape Car Wash and Bar, along Reading main road in Montego Bay, is his first step towards building a successful business enterprise.

"I always wanted to run my own business and build something from the ground up (like my dad). Highway Escape is one of many ideas I have toyed with," said Mitchell, who studied business at Montego Bay Community College.

"It has been a lot of hard work thus far. Time and energy have been heavily invested (in this business venture) - not only on my part, but my family as well, and my employees and my friends. In fact, the grand opening will be on December 17."

Besides academics, Mitchell enjoys weekly domino games, a few drinks with friends, playing video games, and watching the latest movies.

Although his business enterprise keeps him busy, he also works in the family-owned Northern Maintenance Services Limited.

Goal-oriented, dominant, caring, persistent, family-oriented and charismatic are just some of the adjectives Mitchell used to describe his persona.

Strong support

He further pointed out that his family and team, Drag Race Nation (a group of drag-car racers in Montego Bay), have been very supportive in encouraging his drive for excellence.

He recalled that there were several occasions when both his parents had to assist in washing vehicles when the team at the car wash was overwhelmed. That kind of love, support, and devotion cannot be bought, he stated.

As to how he balances social life with all these activities, Mitchell explained: "Hanging with the guys has been pretty easy with this type of business. A car wash is the new boys' hang out. It does put a strain on other relationships, though, but I pull out all the stops to make them work."

According to the young man, entrepreneurship means that we have to turn innovative ideas into job creation and profit.

"My advice to future entrepreneurs is to go for it. Well-thought-out, creative business ideas should never be dismissed because of fear of the unknown, especially in this economic climate where jobs are scarce (and people are becoming desperate to earn)."