From My Perspective Case Study
ISAAC’S ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY
Isaac's interest in entrepreneurship was sparked by his late grandfather, a charismatic storyteller. "My grandfather’s legacy and our shared moments became the cornerstone of my business idea, blending my passion for creative arts with a desire to make a meaningful difference in palliative care," Isaac reflects. The experience of living with his grandfather during a terminal illness highlighted the profound impact of preserving personal stories through audio recordings. This personal connection became the driving force behind "From My Perspective," blending Isaac's passion for creative arts with a mission to make a meaningful difference in palliative care.
Business Overview:
"From My Perspective" addresses the often-overlooked need for capturing and preserving the voices and narratives of palliative hospice patients. The service conducts interviews, enhances them with tailored music and sound design, and encapsulates them in a custom-made memory box. This innovative approach aims to provide a lasting legacy, offering comfort to families during challenging times.
Overcoming Challenges:
Isaac reflected on the challenges he faced, stating, "Navigating ethical considerations and gaining access to hospices and patients was particularly daunting. Ensuring the sensitivity and privacy of participants within the confines of the healthcare system’s stringent regulations demanded meticulous planning and ethical approval." Strategic planning and maintaining open communication with healthcare organisations helped overcome these hurdles. Additionally, securing initial funding for the memory box prototype required persistent grant applications and pitches to investors.
Successes and Milestones:
Isaac's entrepreneurial journey with "From My Perspective" has been marked by several successes. Winning in both the QUB Dragons Den competition and the QUest startup accelerator, triumphs in other competitions, and receiving the Make it Happen Award are significant milestones. The opportunity to share the story through a TEDx talk adds to the growing acknowledgment and support for the innovative service.
Influence of Queen's University Experience:
Isaac highlights that his time at Queen's University Belfast played a pivotal role in building a strong foundation in both creative thinking and entrepreneurship. "My experience at Queen’s University Belfast, particularly through engaging in classes, programmes, and workshops focused on creative arts and business equipped me with a robust foundation in both creative thinking and practical entrepreneurship skills," This experience was instrumental in helping Isaac to foster an innovative mindset, crucial for navigating the complexities of the entrepreneurial landscape.
Advice to Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
Isaac advises aspiring entrepreneurs to choose a business idea deeply rooted in personal passion and connection. This personal connection not only fuels dedication but also brings authenticity and depth to the business, resonating more profoundly with the audience.
Long-term Goals and Definition of Success:
The vision for "From My Perspective" in the next 5-10 years includes securing funding to partner with charitable organisations and trusts, making the service accessible to all who can benefit from it. He defines success by the fulfilment and joy derived from his work, as well as the positive impact on patients and their families.
Lessons Learned:
Resilience and adaptability are key lessons Isaac learned from facing challenges in ethical considerations and funding. The importance of a personal connection to the business idea has also been reaffirmed, enhancing passion and commitment.
Work/Life Balance and Stress Management:
Isaac maintains work-life balance through engaging hobbies, a personal connection to his service, and spending time with his dogs. These elements provide a mental break and help manage stress effectively.
Essential Resources and Recommendations:
In the initiation of "From my Perspective," the backing from the Student’s Union, SU Enterprise, and Queen’s University played a pivotal role. These invaluable resources provided mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to workshops crucial for the development of the business. In offering advice to aspiring students, Isaac recommends, "For those looking to embark on their entrepreneurial journey, I highly recommend making the most of university resources and programmes. They offer a solid foundation and a supportive network for your venture."
Isaac Gibson's entrepreneurial journey with "From My Perspective" exemplifies the power of a deeply personal connection, resilience, and leveraging university resources in creating a business that makes a meaningful impact.