Transforming London Real Estate for Faith Communities

Sanmi Adegoke, founder and CEO of Rehoboth Property Group (RPG), is a London-based real estate entrepreneur who is redefining the city's real estate scene. His company specializes in transforming former entertainment venues into worship spaces tailored for Black minority faith communities. In 2021, Adegoke became the first Black recipient of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award at the Property Awards.

Inspiration and Journey

Adegoke's journey into entrepreneurship was inspired by his faith and a desire to make a positive impact in his community. He noticed the struggle faith communities faced in finding suitable spaces for their congregations, identifying a niche in the real estate industry.

• He used innovative methods to source spaces, helping faith communities find places to call home.
• His passion for helping faith communities and his expertise in real estate investment led him to establish RPG.

Overcoming Challenges

Adegoke faced significant challenges, including racism, financial obstacles, and the fear of the unknown. Access to finance proved to be a major barrier for him as a Black entrepreneur in the real estate industry.

• Banks were less willing to lend to him due to his ethnicity.
• The lack of mentors for ethnic minorities in real estate presented additional hurdles.

He overcame these challenges by reframing fear as a catalyst for growth and harnessing its energy to drive positive action.

Securing Initial Funding

Adegoke initially built up funds through his bespoke consultancy services for faith communities. He secured further funding by leveraging his network of contacts and demonstrating his track record of successful property investments.

• He gained credibility and built a strong network by being resourceful and innovative in his search for and acquisition of spaces.
• He attracted investors who shared his vision and believed in the potential of RPG's business model.

Handling Failure and Setbacks

Adegoke relies on his faith in God to help him through failures and setbacks. His faith provides him with strength and helps him see these challenges as opportunities for learning and growth.

• He uses his faith to stay positive and persevere in turbulent times.
• He views challenges as opportunities to learn and improve.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Adegoke advises aspiring entrepreneurs to be patient, understand their purpose, and celebrate their small wins. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong support system and finding a good mentor.

• Be patient and persistent, as the world of business can be tough and lonely.
• Define your 'why' for entering the industry, which will inform your niche.
• Celebrate small wins to maintain motivation and perspective.
• Build a strong support system of people who can challenge and uplift you.
• Seek mentorship to avoid pitfalls and gain valuable guidance.
• Mentor others to contribute to the success of others.

Staying Motivated During Tough Times

Adegoke draws strength and motivation from his faith and the mission of RPG. He believes in the positive impact they are making in the real estate industry and the transformative power of perseverance, resilience, and determination.

• His faith in God provides him with unwavering belief in his abilities.
• Remembering RPG's mission and the positive impact they are making fuels his motivation.
• His resilience and determination help him navigate adversity with confidence.

Tips for Achieving Success

Adegoke attributes RPG's success to a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, a commitment to excellence, and a culture of continuous innovation and improvement. He emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision, upholding values, building integrity, and seeking mentorship.

• Prioritize customer satisfaction by delivering exceptional value.
• Strive for excellence in everything you do, exceeding expectations.
• Embrace a growth mindset and continuously innovate and improve.
• Develop a clear vision for your goals and strive to achieve them.
• Uphold your values and act with integrity in all your endeavors.
• Seek mentorship to gain guidance and avoid common pitfalls.
• Mentor others to contribute to their success and create a positive impact.