Unemployment propels two young sisters who are graduates (Dora and Lebo Ramahanedza) to partner with Pick ‘n Pay in order to open their own shop in their neighbourhood (Thokoza, Everest), after so many failed attempts of seeking employment.
They both disclosed that they had tried on several occasions to apply for jobs but nothing materialised from their efforts. However, when they were both frustrated and daunted by their unemployment circumstances, a business opportunity from Pick ‘n Pay came along their paths and they did everything in their power to seal the deal.
Lebohang Ramahanedza (29) and Dora Ramahanedza (25) are co-owners of Lebo’s Pick n’ Pay which was officially opened on the 6th of July 2021, and they are both sisters born in a business orientated family, they adamantly outlined that they have acquired all the entrepreneurial skills and abilities from helping out at their parents’ businesses.
Lebohang shared, saying, “We both grew up in a business orientated family, but when I went to varsity, I wanted to take a different path. After obtaining my qualification I tried applying for jobs, unfortunately, I didn’t get any job. As time went by I got a job at a retail shop but I didn’t work there for a long time, because I was only taken in as a casual worker, after my contract ended I became unemployed again for three years.
“I was depressed and demotivated as I was job hunting again, I chose to watch Dr Phil for inspiration and to understand human behaviour and prejudice in the world. I also began reading books which is what I love and I still hold dearly in my heart even now. I wanted to be informed whilst keeping myself busy, my parents who are businesspersons showed us this business opportunity, and we never looked back. I would like to thank Nedbank for lending us a loan that we used to venture into this business partnership with Pick ‘n Pay.
“I’m grateful to them because it wouldn’t have been possible without them. When we officially opened our business this year on the 6th of July, I had mixed feelings, I was excited and nervous at the same time.
“As women managing a business we face a lot of challenges, but we choose to focus on the positive side of things and I advise other young women to work hard in their endeavours,” she uttered.
Additionally, Dora explained in detail, saying “I never thought I would be a businesswoman, although I believe everything happens for a reason. Managing a business comes with its pros and cons but as for me I had always wanted to be self-reliant and be my own boss, so this phase grants me the chance to be what I had always envisaged, I think my parents set a good example for me in this entrepreneurial journey.
“I also advise people to put this into consideration whenever they open a business, they must know that it’s not for them, but for the community at large.
“Our business has employed 20 employees, we hope to expand our business and reduce the unemployment rate by employing more people,” she said.
They both thanked the community members in Thokoza for their unwavering efforts in protecting their business during the unrest.
By Matampane Raymond Mokwena
