In the latest episode of The Business Narrative, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Tamara Rodrigues and Ferdinand Schaefer, co-founders of Code Wake, a leading wakeboarding and wakesurfing center in Doha. Their journey from passionate water sports enthusiasts to successful entrepreneurs is not only inspiring but packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to turn their passion into a profitable business.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key takeaways from our conversation, including the challenges of starting a business in a competitive industry, overcoming legal hurdles, and ensuring safety in high-risk activities.

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From Enthusiasts to Entrepreneurs

Tamara and Ferdinand didn’t just stumble into the water sports business—they lived and breathed it. Their love for wakeboarding and wakesurfing laid the foundation for Code Wake, a water sports center that quickly became a favorite in Doha.

When asked about the first steps in starting such a unique business, Ferdinand emphasized the importance of market research. “You need to understand the demand and competition,” he said. In their case, they were the first to enter the market, but two and a half years later, the scene exploded, with seven or eight new competitors emerging.

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The Challenges of Starting a Water Sports Business

Starting a business in Qatar, especially in a niche like water sports, came with its own set of challenges. Tamara highlighted the bureaucratic hurdles they faced, explaining that acquiring the necessary legal permissions was far from straightforward. “One day someone tells you one thing, the next day it’s something else,” she noted, reflecting on the constantly shifting legal landscape in Qatar.

However, both founders agreed that these obstacles could be overcome with patience, persistence, and the right approach. Their advice? Do your homework and seek out as much information as possible before diving into any new venture.

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Staying Afloat in the Off-Season

While many might assume that water sports in Doha would be highly seasonal, Tamara and Ferdinand managed to keep Code Wake busy even in the scorching summer heat. The key to their success? Innovation and adaptability.

By offering early morning and late afternoon sessions during the hottest months and providing wetsuits for the colder days, they ensured that their customers had a great experience year-round. “We don’t really have an off-season,” said Tamara, highlighting their efforts to remain operational despite weather challenges.

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Safety First: A Must in High-Risk Activities

Water sports, while thrilling, come with inherent risks. Tamara and Ferdinand have made safety a top priority at Code Wake. From lifeguard training for their staff to waivers for participants, they take every precaution to ensure their customers’ well-being.

“Listen to the staff,” Tamara advised, emphasizing that most accidents happen when people ignore safety guidelines. By fostering a relaxed, enjoyable environment on their boats, they ensure that participants feel comfortable and prepared to enjoy the experience.

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Turning Customers into a Community

One of the most rewarding aspects of running Code Wake, according to Ferdinand, is the strong community they’ve built. Many customers have become repeat visitors, even friends. “It’s not just a business—it’s a lifestyle,” he said.

To further grow their community, Code Wake hosts fun events like their annual “Can It Be Surfed?” competition, where participants try to surf on unconventional objects like ironing boards and inflatable toys. These unique experiences keep their community engaged and coming back for more.

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Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Tamara and Ferdinand’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. For those looking to start their own business, especially in a niche industry, here are some key takeaways from their journey:

1. Do thorough market research to understand your competition and demand.
2. Be prepared to navigate legal and bureaucratic challenges.
3. Innovate and adapt to stay competitive, especially during off-seasons.
4. Make safety a top priority in high-risk activities.
5. Build a community, not just a customer base.

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Conclusion

Starting a business, especially in a niche like water sports, is no easy task. But as Tamara and Ferdinand have shown, with the right mindset, thorough research, and a passion for what you do, success is possible. Whether you’re looking to start your own business or simply love the world of water sports, their insights offer valuable lessons on how to turn your passion into profit.

Interested in learning more about their journey? Listen to the full podcast episode here. And if you’re ever in Doha, be sure to visit Code Wake for an unforgettable experience on the water.

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