AFTER graduating from the University of the West Indies, Mona, over a year ago, Kirk Buchanan and Aldane Dawkins figured that starting a business was the key to their financial independence.

So in September 2014, after months of planning and pooling together a capital amount of $100,000, the duo decided to start ‘CraziiSocks’ and officially became business partners on paper.

“In July 2014, we were brainstorming for an innovative business proposal. Being men of fashion, we analysed the idea of selling fashionable socks that could be worn by business professionals, and would not interfere with the limits of the dress code which exists in corporate society,” Dawkins told Career & Education.

“After more introspection, we decided to take a chance and start the business,” Buchanan added.

CraziiSocks, a home-based enterprise, sells multicoloured socks made of 80 per cent combed cotton combined with 17 per cent nylon and three per cent spandex, at a cost of $500 each. The brand has, in recent months, become a fashion trend in Jamaica.

The 25-year-olds said making the decision to become business partners, along with the nine-to-five jobs they currently hold, was one of the best life decisions they ever made.

“We are satisfied with the performance of CraziiSocks so far. It has superseded our expectations and has motivated us in the process to continue aspiring for greatness,” Dawkins said.

Buchanan explained that it’s important for young people to try to create their own jobs, and in the process, have fun.

“It is a great feeling to have accomplished something you can call your own, especially after putting in the work and to be able to watch your efforts come to life. As American entrepreneur Scott Belsky says, ‘It’s not about ideas. It’s about making ideas happen’, and that’s exactly what we are doing,” he said.

Unlike many entrepreneurs, the young men complain very little about the challenges they face with CraziiSocks, as they say the fun they are having selling multicoloured socks diminishes the memories of the problems they face.

For 2015, the young men say they are thinking of expanding their product line.

“Currently our main focus is multicoloured socks, but we are looking to expand to other accessories, such as bow ties and pocket squares,” Dawkins said.

This week, they share with Career & Education, eight benefits they derived from becoming entrepreneurs.

1. There are no limits

2. We have fun and maintain a good friendship

3. We derive personal growth

4. We are recognised for our accomplishments

5. Our self-confidence has grown

6. We get satisfaction

7. We have financial freedom

8. We get to be our own bosses and bring about change from our thoughts and actions.

(PHOTOS: AINSWORTH MORRIS)

Kirk Buchanan (left) and Aldane Dawkins, owners of CraziiSocks.

Some of the CraziiSocks sold by Aldane Dawkins and Kirk Buchanan.