By Vuyokazi Bam
Mbongeni (30) who has always wanted to be in the hospitality industry as a chef didn’t let his misfortune hinder his progress as an entrepreneur.
He couldn’t finish his Hospitality course at Springs College because he lacked funds. Due to his unfulfilled dreams of becoming a chef Mbongiseni moved to Katlehong, and a few years later his cousin asked him to help him wash 20 pairs of shoes, while helping him he discovered that there’s actually an opportunity for him to start his business, as people didn’t have enough time on their hands.Mbongiseni told Ekurhuleni News that “it is not an easy business; we’ve got unpleasant customers as well as delicate shoes which need one to take a cautious look on.” He also shared the challenges that he faces every day since he does not have a proper shelter for the business as yet, he told Ekurhuleni News that “I am currently using a gazebo for shelter and a bucket so that I’m able to wash shoes but it would’ve been better if one had a shop with running water and basin to be able to perform those duties.” He further added that his ultimate goal is to have a shop and the needed equipment.
He revealed that “most of our clients are mostly young people who do not have much time on their hands since they are working most of the time.” On the other hand he added how the pandemic has affected him in a negative way as people lost their jobs therefore it becomes a challenge to get support from unemployed people due to no source of income. The entrepreneur told Ekurhuleni News that “it will take time for things to go back to normal as the pandemic has affected us negatively.”
His main goal is to open up a business that will create job opportunities within his area “we can have everything within our townships not in town or elsewhere.” Based on that he also revealed where his business is situated “we are based in Katlehong at 62 Mnisi section, we also have a delivery service where we collect and deliver, and we do come to provide our service at your premise when you have more than 15 pairs of shoes.” Mbongiseni adds “to every young person who wants to give up out there, there’s always people who are watching, who look up to you, who believe in you.” Mbongiseni encourages people not to give up.
