Thomas Kanime, the founder of Kaashi-o Printing Shop and Kaashi Café, built his business from simple beginnings, strong discipline, and a desire to serve his community. Although Kaashi-o Printing Shop opened just over three years ago, the idea started long before that.
Kanime worked for more than six years in the printing and office environment. Performing duties such as printing, scanning, photography, and even making coffee for the chief executive officer at his former job.
He says this experience taught him discipline, customer service, and the importance of quality work.
“I started the business because I saw a need in my community. People were struggling to find fast, reliable, and friendly printing services. I wanted to create a place where anyone could walk in and get professional service without stress,” he said.
He added that the business began with a second-hand machine, but consistency helped it grow.
Today, Kaashi-o Printing Shop offers printing, photocopying, scanning, passport photos, laminating, binding, shredding, and more. Recently, Kanime also opened Kaashi Café, a calm and cozy space where people can enjoy good coffee, work on their laptops, hold meetings, or simply relax.
He now works with a small but dedicated team and hopes to create more job opportunities for young people as the business grows.
Kanime’s start-up capital came from his own savings, as he believed strongly in his vision. He is now planning to expand into production printing to serve more clients.
Kanime completed his schooling at Ruacana High School and gained most of his skills through hands-on experience, self-teaching, and learning from both success and mistakes. He says he believes in continuous improvement.
Kaashi-o Printing Shop and Kaashi Café are Kanime’s main source of income. “These businesses are how I support myself and my family. Everything I earn comes from dedication, long hours, and consistency,” he said.
He adds that he reinvests a lot back into the business to keep it growing and stable. Several people depend on his income directly and indirectly. His employees rely on the business for their daily livelihood, and he also supports his family. Local suppliers and service providers benefit as well, spreading the impact even further.
Kanime faces challenges, especially the high cost of equipment and maintenance in the printing industry. Machines are expensive, and cash flow can be difficult during slow months. Access to funding or loans is also limited, so most growth comes from personal savings.
During tough times, Kanime manages by budgeting carefully and prioritising important expenses like salaries and rent. He sometimes takes on extra responsibilities himself to reduce costs and uses savings to keep the business running. He also looks for ways to attract more customers through promotions and improved services.
“Persistence is what keeps us going and I continue to build a business that serves the community and creates opportunities for others,” he said.