The entrepreneurial spirit of three Karbi boys to start GOK, a mobile app that offers on-demand car washing services, is inspiring. Let’s find out how they identified a problem and created a solution.
Bhaswati Kalita
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Updated on :
In the heart of Karbi Anglong, Assam, a group of young entrepreneurs has embarked on a mission to redefine car washing services. GOK app for car washing services is the brainchild of three friends—Sarnongkiri Langneh (CEO), Jirsong Bey (CMO), and Kirison Timung (CFO). This venture is not just about cleaning cars; it’s a testament to determination, innovation, and the ability to turn an everyday problem into a scalable business solution.
Image: Kirison Timung (CFO), Sarnongkiri Langneh (CEO), and Jirsong Bey (CMO), showing GOK app
The Visionary Beginnings
Every business starts with a dream, and for Sarnongkiri Langneh, this dream was born from necessity. Hailing from a modest background, Sarnongkiri began his professional journey as a SIM card seller. Over time, he explored various roles, working at a xerox store, serving as a head cashier at Vishal Mega Mart, and venturing into network marketing.
Despite these efforts, Sarnongkiri aspired for something bigger. His turning point came when he took a loan to purchase a small car-washing center. Initially a means to sustain himself, this center became a source of inspiration. Observing the inefficiencies in traditional car-washing services and listening to customer frustrations, Sarnongkiri envisioned a more customer-friendly approach. He realized there was a demand for convenient, reliable, and efficient car-washing solutions.
With this realization, he approached his trusted friends, Jirsong Bey and Kirison Timung, who shared his enthusiasm and vision. Together, they laid the foundation for GOK Car Washing Service—a business built on the principles of growth, opportunity, and kindness.
The Genesis of GOK Car Washing Services
GOK is a Karbi word for ‘foothills.’ Taking it as a philosophy to start from scratch, the word embodies the values that the founders hold for vision and growth to the top. Their mission is to transform the car-washing experience by prioritizing convenience, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Sarnongkiri leads as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), driving the business’s overall strategy and innovation. Jirsong Bey, as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), focuses on customer outreach and branding, while Kirison Timung, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), ensures financial stability and operational efficiency.
How GOK is Solving a Real Problem
Car washing, while essential, often remains a cumbersome task for vehicle owners. Traditional car-washing services are time-consuming and often lack the flexibility modern customer’s demand. GOK steps in to fill this gap by offering a suite of innovative, customer-centric solutions designed to make car washing hassle-free.
Key Services Offered by GOK
- Advance Booking: Customers can schedule their car-washing services ahead of time, ensuring convenience and minimizing wait times.
- Pickup, Wash, and Return: GOK offers a seamless experience by picking up the car from the customer’s location, washing it thoroughly, and returning it in pristine condition.
- Home Washing Service (Coming Soon): Recognizing the growing preference for on-demand services, GOK plans to introduce home car-washing options, further enhancing customer convenience.
Early Success and Strategic Growth
Starting a business is never easy, especially with limited resources. GOK’s journey began with funds sourced from family members and friends. Despite financial constraints, the founders exhibited remarkable resourcefulness and determination. Within just one month of launching, GOK secured partnerships with nine service providers, significantly expanding its capacity to serve customers. This rapid growth reflects not just the demand for GOK’s services but also the founders’ ability to identify and act on opportunities. Their efforts have enabled them to position GOK as a reliable and innovative player in the local car-washing industry.
The Challenges of Entrepreneurship
Sarnongkiri’s journey is particularly inspiring, as he remains the primary breadwinner for his family while navigating the challenges of running a startup. His decision to take a significant financial risk demonstrates his unwavering belief in GOK’s potential.
The founders’ resilience and willingness to learn have been key to overcoming the hurdles of entrepreneurship. They have successfully transformed their vision into a growing business, creating value for customers and opportunities for their community.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
GOK’s founders have a message for those looking to start their entrepreneurial journey: perseverance is crucial. “Never give up and keep trying,” they said, emphasizing the importance of staying committed to one’s goals despite setbacks. Their story illustrates that entrepreneurship is not just about having a groundbreaking idea; it’s about execution, collaboration, and the courage to take risks.
A Symbol of Local Innovation
GOK Car Washing Service is a shining example of how local entrepreneurs can address everyday problems with innovative solutions. By leveraging their understanding of the community’s needs, Sarnongkiri, Jirsong, and Kirison have created a business that not only generates profit but also inspires others to think creatively.
Their journey underscores the potential of grassroots entrepreneurship in driving economic growth and social impact. By addressing a specific need with a customer-centric approach, GOK is setting a benchmark for small businesses in Assam and beyond.
Supporting GOK’s Vision
GOK’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, innovation, and community support. To learn more about their services, visit the profile.
Bhaswati Kalita is a business analyst and storyteller with years of experience in business operations, management, and marketing. She is an engineering graduate and started her professional career as an operations manager in a tech company. To follow her passion as a storyteller, she loves to write business articles and stories. Reach her at bhaswati@diversityassam.com.
