#daredreamerspotlight

Mark Alex, Managing Director, is in the #StartUp stage of his business known as Real Biz Digital. This newly established business has existed for three years and provides web, software, and app development to businesses of all sizes. His company offers security solutions for the applications they develop, as well as digital marketing services. 

Early in life, Mark always knew that self-employment was the way forward for him. And even though he wasn't sure what he'd do, he knew that he was destined for business ownership. 

At 18 years of age, fresh out of high school, Mark got a sales and marketing job because he needed to make some money. Mark worked for 6 months then gave up and made the decision to pursue a business venture instead.  

Mark’s journey of discovery led him to become a Car Agent. He got to connect the owner with the buyer but he soon realized that that business venture was not a right fit for him.  

Then, Mark became a Real Estate Agent, which was slightly good at first but then clients stopped coming so he got into the selling of memory cards. Another idea that went belly rather quickly. The entire stock he imported from China was low-quality dysfunctional memory cards and clients who bought the cards returned for a refund.  

But Mark didn’t give up, he sold perfumes, ladies' handbags, and so many other things. As you can see, Mark explored various ideas and opportunities before he finally started Real Biz Digital.

Mark recounts that he had no mentorship and no clear direction, but the Lord brought him slowly to his next idea. Several people suggested that he start an IT business—he even met a Prophet who prophesied the same message in 2016. You’re probably thinking, “this is unbelievable,” right? Well, there’s more... In 2017, Mark got two paying clients to design their website and mobile application. WHAT?! Yes, two clients were willing to pay him money. At that time he had no experience or knowledge of design and development, nor did he have a portfolio but he took the job and learned while on the job. “Way to go Mark Alex!” And that's when he knew God had confirmed this idea. And so the journey continues.

Mark said yes to God and he’s glad that he did, but he’s had many obstacles to face. Lack of mentorship, lack of business knowledge, and difficulty in getting clients to name a few. 

Mark looks to business-related books, Bible verses, podcasts, our faith-based community, Daredream, and other resources to help him get perspective to see his way through the obstacles he faces:

There is a teaching by Pastor Randy Skeete on YouTube titled, "How To Succeed Without Being A Genius" that helps set the pace on his entrepreneurial journey and was a huge inspiration to start digging deep into Biblical truths. 

Many powerful Bible verses and books have kept him from not giving up. Among them is Jeremiah 17:5-8, which talks about putting your trust in God and not in man. Mark said, “I used to be the kind of person who used to believe that if I connect with someone with a certain position of authority, he or she will help me out with my business. Trusting in God has given me numerous experienced mentors in business, something that I was struggling to find.”

Exodus 20, speaks of the ten commandments and is paralleled by Deuteronomy 28 which speaks of blessings of keeping those commandments.

He was driven by Ecclesiastes 9:10 and Genesis 1:31, which speak about excellence. 

He was also inspired by Philippians chapter 2 which talks about selflessness and the need to put others' interests ahead of our own. It was hard at first but through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, it became easy. He hasn't perfected it, and he’s still growing. 

Hebrews 11 taught him to move with faith no matter the circumstance. 

Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell emphasizes the importance of not giving up despite your failure. 

In the book, “Education” by Ellen G. White, he found this quote in Chapter 15 on Business Principles and Methods that have been guiding all his actions this year: " To every man is given "his work" (Mark 13:34), the work for which his capabilities adapt him, the work which will result in greatest good to himself and to his fellow-men, and in greatest honor to God. Thus our business or calling is a part of God's great plan, and, so long as it is conducted in accordance with His will, He Himself is responsible for the results." 

Mark is thankful for gift of life, vigorous health, finding the right people, being able to interact with the Christian entrepreneurs through the accountability group at Daredream: Gather, and so much more!

One piece of encouragement Mark would offer an entrepreneur facing similar challenges is to, "put God first and never give up."

Mark's story is one of desire and determination. He knew what he wanted to do and was courageous enough to go after it. He tried several things until he finally found what he believes he is purposed to do. Mark is excited to share his gifts with others so if you’re interested in the services offered, please reach out to Mark at Real Biz Digital and take advantage if his FREE Website and SEO Audit.