Business

This category covers articles related to business, including starting a business, running a business, and growing a business. Articles in this category will provide information, advices and everything from developing a business plan to marketing your business. Whether you’re just starting out as an enterprenuer or you’re looking to take your business to the next level, this category has the information you need to succeed.

A Taste Of Home.

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Tucked away in the vibrant streets of GaMatlapa Mashashane, near Tladi’s butchery, lies Kota Kat, a culinary gem born from the passion of its founder, Katlego “Kat” Lebese (32). This Mashashane native’s love affair with food is evident in every aspect of Kota Kat, from the divine fast food to the exceptional customer service.

Katlego’s journey with food began at a young age, sparked by his fascination with spices and experimenting with new recipes. Although his dream of becoming a chef didn’t materialize, it paved the way for his entrepreneurial spirit to flourish. With a family background in business, Katlego found his niche in opening Kota Kat, a venture that combines his passion for food with his business acumen.

Kota Kat’s menu boasts an array of mouth-watering options, including potato chips, magwinya, and kotas, carefully crafted to satisfy both take-away and sit-in customers. Katlego’s inspiration stems from his childhood love for bunny chows, which drove him to create a space where his community could indulge in delicious kotas without having to travel far.

Starting Kota Kat with an initial investment of less than R2,000, Katlego’s perseverance and faith in his vision propelled the business forward. As the business grew, so did Katlego’s menu, with new ingredients and flavors being introduced. However, he notes that launching a business in one’s hometown can be challenging, with personal relationships often leading to expectations of favors or leniency.

“I learned to be strict and stingy for my business to flourish,” Katlego said. Despite these challenges, his aspirations for Kota Kat’s future remain ambitious. He aims to secure a larger, permanent location, providing stability and growth opportunities for the business while allowing him to fully express his creativity and dedication to his craft.

“Rented spaces for business don’t work for me, as one cannot predict the future,” Katlego explained. With the support of his family and close friends, Kota Kat has been operating for over …. years, and the proud owner shows no signs of giving up.

One of Kota Kat’s regular and trusted customers, Aubrey Kgole praises the establishment, saying, “We can’t wait to see what Kota Kat brings next, especially on their menu.” Katlego concludes, “You can order your food digitally at Kota Kat and collect later to avoid long queues.”

Contact Kota Kat:
– Calls/WhatsApp: +27 72 794 6601
– Facebook: Katlego Kat Lebese

The Story Of A Triple Threat: A Corporate Climber, Content Creator, And Youth Empowerment Champion.

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Meet Jessica Tshepiso Legodi, a 24-year-old corporate climber, content creator, and youth empowerment champion. Born in Ga-Mashashane Matlapa outside Polokwane, Jessica is defying stereotypes about young millennials been entitled and lazy.

As a two-time TUT graduate, Jessica boasts a diverse background in modeling, corporate, and online entrepreneurship. She inspires others through her work as a motivational speaker and content creator.

Jessica’s passion for education drove her to pursue a Diploma in Administrative Information Management at the TUT Pretoria main campus, despite her initial desire to study teaching. She excelled in the program, also completing an Advanced Diploma without NSFAS funding. She relied on online income to support herself. “I was not planning on going back to school but I knew that going back would open doors for me since I was unemployed, and just as I anticipated, it did.” said Jessica.

Her perseverance led to two job offers at the same time and a successful corporate career. “I signed two job contracts to later resign on the other before I could start working.” With no prior office experience, Jessica excelled in her first admin role as a graduate. Within just five months, she attended a high-profile meeting with South African Ministers, an experience that fueled her determination to work even harder. Today, Jessica continues to attend high-level meetings, showcasing her impressive potential.

As a content creator, Jessica shares inspiring stories, valuable insights, and promotes positivity and self-empowerment, resonating with a growing audience. Jessica’s greatest passion is empowering young people to reach their full potential. She encourages youth to take control, pursue their passions, and strive for excellence, believing in the simple yet powerful message: believe in yourself, work hard, and never give up.

Jessica prioritizes self-care, advocating for activities that bring joy and empowerment. She balances work and play with a trusty to-do list, believing securing one’s future and having fun can coexist. In her free time, she enjoys reading novels, making money online, and outdoor activities.

Jessica’s mantra is “O ka se palelwe ke selo seo se sa boleleng,” reminding others to stay motivated and focused. Her advice to young people is simple: “Take risks, pursue your passions, and believe in yourself. Create the life you want.”

In conclusion, Jessica emphasizes, “Secure the bag! Life is cruel to people who are too relaxed.”

Facebook: Jessica Tshepiso Legodi
IG: Jessica Legodi
Tiktok: Jessica Legodi

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A Life Of Purpose And Compassion.

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In a world where kindness and generosity are often overlooked, Grace Mmatau Matlala shines as a beacon of hope and compassion. Grace is the proud founder of Life Miracles Organization and Kgapana Enterprise. As the founder of Life Miracles Organization, a remarkable organization dedicated to uplifting the community, Grace’s story is a testament to the transformative power of selflessness and determination.

Manyapye-based, born and bred in Ga-Mashashane Newlands, Grace is a proud Award-Winning Community Builder. Her organization is built on the principles of empathy and a deep commitment to empowering marginalized communities. Through various initiatives and programs, the organization provides essential support to those in need, fostering a sense of hope and dignity.

“My inspiration comes from my deep-rooted desire to make a positive impact in my community,” Grace says. “Witnessing the struggle of those around me, I was motivated to create a business that can offer incredible services but also give back.”

In addition to her philanthropic work, Grace is also a talented caterer and a décor expert, offering services that bring joy and beauty to countless lives, under the Kgapana Enterprise. Her keen eye for detail and creative flair have earned her a reputation as a masterful event designer.

Grace’s achievements have been recognized through several prestigious awards, including Limpopo SMME Best Community Builder and Best Female Entrepreneur, Sunday World Heroic Woman nominee, and Recipient of Sigma & Anglo American Zimele’s Business Startup Bootcamp.

Despite facing challenges, Grace remains committed to delivering quality services while contributing to community initiatives. “I actively engage with the community to understand their needs and identify ways my businesses can support them,” she says.

Grace has partnered with Operation Phakama (Modimolle) and Helping Hands Foundation to drive community outreach initiatives and make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. She envisions expanding her business, Kgapana Enterprise, to new locations and growing Life Miracles Organization to tackle larger community projects. She further reassures us that the best is yet to come.

Mrs Matlala extends her deepest gratitude to Operation Phakama, Mr. Clifford Malose Pitjeng of Mogwasha Juices, Mablomo’s Media Expo & Projects, and her loving family and friends for their unwavering support and impact on her journey.

Facebook: Grace Mmatau Refilwe
TikTok: @mmatau27

Elevate Your Style With The Ledwabas LEDJOY:KE NAKO Luxury Watches.

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At the intersection of traditional watchmaking expertise and innovative design lies Ledjoy:Ke Nako, a luxury watch brand that embodies resilience, strength, and African excellence.

Ledjoy:Ke Nako was born out of Lethabo ‘Ledjoy’ Ledwaba’s childhood fascination with time. Growing up in Ga-Mashashane, 33-year-old Lethabo’s daily 10-kilometer walk to and from school instilled in her the value of time management and resilience. Years later, she launched Ledjoy:Ke Nako, with a mission to inspire individuals to value time and take action.

“KE NAKO,” meaning “It is time” in Northern Sotho, serves as a rallying cry for Africa to produce high-quality timepieces that reflect the continent’s resilient spirit. Ledjoy timepieces are designed for the modern trailblazer – men who embody leadership, innovation, and a passion for creating positive change.

Ledjoy timepieces made a remarkable debut in October 2022 with an inaugural batch of 250 units. The brand’s unique blend of traditional watchmaking and innovative design resonated with customers, with 70 units sold by December 2022. The entire batch sold out by June 2023, demonstrating strong demand for Ledjoy’s luxury timepieces.

When they started operating in October 2022, Ledjoy:Ke Nako’s management team visited Chief M.M. Mashashane to introduce their brand and show respect for traditional protocol and authority. “As a gesture of respect and to seek the Chief’s blessings, we presented him with a Ledjoy timepiece”, explained the management team. “Following the meeting, the Chief endorsed the brand, leading to a social media buzz and a significant sales surge – 70% of start-up units sold in Mashashane”. This visit showcased Ledjoy:Ke Nako’s commitment to cultural sensitivity and community engagement, yielding tangible business results and setting a positive tone for future growth.

While Ledjoy:Ke Nako hasn’t formed any official partnerships, the brand has teamed up with a select group of South African artists for exclusive social media campaigns.

In a candid admission, Lethabo shared the realities of competing as a small business. “Like every small business, we have had to deal with the challenges of competing with well-established international businesses with a large budget.”

Ledjoy strives for excellence, treating each customer as a unique brand deserving of leadership status. The brand name, inspired by Lethabo’s nickname, represents a deeper concept: being “Led” by Purpose, individuals can attain a joyful tomorrow through resilience and determination.

Get Your Ledjoy:Ke Nako Timepiece Today!
@Ledjoy_SA,
Whatsapp 073 338 5391.

Empowering Communities Through Poultry Farming: The Story Of Ramokone Sannah Kwakwa.

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In the heart of Mmotong Makgofe Polokwane, a young entrepreneur is making waves in the poultry farming industry. Ramokone Sannah Kwakwa(25) is a farmer born and raised in Seshego Zone 1. She is the founder of The New Dawn Poultry Farm established in 2020 with a mission to contribute to food security and employment creation in her community.

Faced with the daunting reality of high graduate unemployment in South Africa, popularly known as Sannah took matters into her own hands. Rather than using her university bursary for everyday expenses, she made a bold decision to invest in her poultry farming venture. Her ambition was twofold: to generate employment opportunities and secure financial independence.

Sannah’s farm has become a beacon of hope for many in Mmotong Makgofe. By supplying high-quality broilers and table eggs to households, resellers, bakeries, butcher shops, and spaza shops, Sannah is helping to address food insecurity in the area. Her farm has also created job opportunities for local community members, providing them with a steady income and a sense of purpose.

But Sannah’s impact goes beyond just her farm. She is an inspiration to young entrepreneurs and farmers in her community, showing them that with hard work, resilience, and smart decision-making, they too can achieve success. Her motto, “Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can. Your backyard can build an empire!” has become a rallying cry for many young people in the area.

Sannah has completed various training programs to enhance her business and agricultural skills. Notable qualifications include:
> GIBS Graduate (Gordon Institute of Business Science) – 2023
> 12-Month Standard Bank Basali Development Program – 2024
>Marketing Course – Sponsored by the Department of Agriculture
>HACCP & ISO9001 Certification – Sponsored by SEFDA
>Agribusiness Management Training – Sponsored by Polokwane Municipality & Core Energy
>Record-Keeping Course
>Health Management Practices, Cleaning & Disinfecting, and Feed Management Course
>Certificate of Attendance – CCRED (Centre for Competition, Regulation & Economic Development)
>Funded by Oxfam South Africa – FAIR 4 ALL: Inclusive & Sustainable Gender Transformative Value Chains (SLP) – 2023
>Certificate of Attendance – CCBSA Coca-Cola Grow My Business Programme Workshop – 2023
>AI4BIZ: Digital Innovation & Artificial Intelligence for Small Businesses
>JBS Innovation Lab, Johannesburg Business School, University of Johannesburg (Hybrid) – 2023/2024

“These qualifications have equipped me with expertise in business management, digital innovation, marketing, and agribusiness, enabling me to efficiently scale The New Dawn Poultry Farm”. Sannah expressed. The farmer’s achievements are a testament to her dedication and perseverance. She has further won the Bambelela Business Award and received R40,000 in funding, which has helped her expand her farm and increase production. She has also built a strong customer base and gained recognition and media coverage for her journey in farming.

As Sannah looks to the future, she is ambitious about expanding her farm and increasing her impact on the community. “In the next five years, I envision The New Dawn Poultry Farm becoming one of the leading egg suppliers in South Africa,” she says. Sannah’s story is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship and farming can be a powerful tool for community development. By supporting local farmers like her, we can help create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and build stronger, more resilient communities.

As a young farmer in a male-dominated industry, she credits her success to hard work, resilience, and smart decision-making. She advises aspiring farmers, especially women, to start small, educate themselves, be patient, and persistent. She also emphasizes the importance of networking and marketing through social media. She encourages others to join the industry, believing there is space for women and young entrepreneurs to thrive.

Sannah expresses her heartfelt gratitude to her family and friends for their unwavering support, her loyal customers for believing in her business, and young entrepreneurs and aspiring poultry farmers for their dedication to their dreams.

Follow Sannah’s journey on social media:
Facebook: The New Dawn Poultry Farm
IG: @newdawnpoultry
Twitter/X: @newdawnpoultry

Keletso Kganyago To Break Barriers In Fashion.

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Meet Keletso Simon Kganyago, a 24-year-old fashion designer from Ga-Mashashane Mandela outside Polokwane. Kele, as he’s popularly known, is the proud founder of The Unstoppable Train, which he established in 2018.

Kele’s passion for fashion began in primary school, where he drew inspiration from his late brother, Sketchtone. With limited resources, he would cut and resew old clothes, unknowingly laying the foundation for his future career. “That’s how I learned to straighten lines, put pieces together, and the rest was history,” Kele recalls.

Founding The Unstoppable Train was a pivotal decision for Kele. “I invested my all in this brand, designing each item with passion and resilience,” he says. “I managed to tap into my creativity, and it’s been an incredible journey.”

Kele fondly recalls one of the most meaningful moments in his career: “One of the highlights I’ll always treasure is having the opportunity to create and sew garments for my former high school teachers.”

As a rising star in the fashion industry, Kele faces various challenges. “One of the biggest difficulties I encounter is keeping up with the rapid pace of fashion trends,” he admits. “Fashion trends change very quickly. What’s popular today may not be popular tomorrow. This makes it hard for designers like me to keep our designs up-to-date and trendy, and to keep customers interested and loyal to our brand.”

Kele’s determination and passion for fashion drive him to stay ahead of the curve, continually seeking inspiration and innovation to meet the ever-changing demands of the fashion world.

The Unstoppable Train offers a range of elegant, vintage-inspired, and trendy clothing, including school and other uniforms and streetwear. Kele’s commitment to his craft is evident in every stitch, and he’s determined to make his brand a household name.

When asked about the brand’s name, Kele explains that he chose The Unstoppable Train because it represents his relentless pursuit of success. “The brand is here to stay,” he asserts confidently. With Kele at the helm, The Unstoppable Train is indeed poised for greatness.

Facebook: Simon Keletso.                              IG: keletso kganyago.                                      Calls/Whatsapp: 0728602268

 

Smurts Machaka’s Love Affair With Fashion.

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Smurts Machaka’s love affair with fashion was inspired by his love for creativity and his late designer friend, Sketchtone. Today, his label ‘Note Man’ is a symbol of hope and achievement, defying the odds of his past.

From humble beginnings in Ga-Mashashane, ga-Matlapa, Machaka’s passion for fashion drove him to pursue his dream of becoming one of the best designers, despite growing up in rural area with no opportunities.

The 31-year old designer’s journey began under the watchful eye of Sketchtone, a talented mentor who saw potential in him. Through countless hours of guidance and encouragement, Sketchtone shaped Smurts into the designer he is today. “Sketchtone’s impact on my life and career is immeasurable,” Smurts says, his voice filled with emotion.

In 2013, Machaka enrolled in the LIBSA Training Centre to study Carpentry, but his true calling remained fashion. He launched his brand in 2014 August, pouring his heart and soul into it. His designs emphasizes creativity, color combination, and beauty.

“I want to be one of the successful designers in the province, and the country. I’m not after trophies nor money, but greatness,” Machaka asserts.

His customers praise his innovative designs, making the ‘Note Man’s success tangible. He inspires his community with his achievements. “Working with Smurts was an absolute pleasure. He listened to our vision, offered expert advice, and delivered stunning garments that made us shine on stage. His passion for fashion is evident in every stitch.” – Jabulile Masenya, Baswa Ba Tshireletso Gospel Music Artist says.

Note Man’s impressive portfolio boasts designs for renowned clients. His talent has dressed some of the gospel music industry’s biggest names. Notably, he has crafted stunning garments for the iconic  Baswa Ba Tshireletso Gospel Choir, renowned for their soul-stirring harmonies, and Bethesda Gospel Choir to name a few. Additionally, his designs have adorned several community leaders, solidifying his reputation as a go-to fashion expert.

Smurts shared his breath-taking plans on his brand, telling The Red-dot that the future of the ‘Note Man’ brand is indeed something to look forward to, because he is not about stop but work hard to improve his craft each and other day.

 

As Machaka continues to make waves in the fashion industry, his story serves as a beacon of hope. With perseverance and innovation, he’s living proof that success knows no bounds. He has never been to fashion school but listed one of the best designers in the village.

Facebook: Noteman Smurts Machakan

Istagram: NOTEMAN

Tiktok: @noteman7

Calls/WhatsApp: 076 371 2255

Priorities Your Mental Health As An entrepreneur.

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In the fast-paced world of enterpreneurship, it’s easy to get swept up in the relentless pursuit of success, growth, and innovation. Amidst the hustle and bustle, there’s one essential element that often takes a backseat: your mental health.

Entrepreneurship is often described as a rollercoaster ride, filled with exhilarating highs and challenging lows. The constant pressure to meet deadlines, make critical decisions, and navigate uncertainty can take a toll on your mental health. As entrepreneurs, you bear the weight of your dreams and ambitious, but you must also carry the responsibility of caring for your mental well-being.

Contrary to the myth of the “tough entrepreneur”, neglecting your mental health doesn’t make you stronger. In fact, it can hinder your ability to lead effectively, make clear decisions, and adapt to challenges. Your mental state significantly influences your business’s success. When you prioritise your mental health, you enhance your resilience, creativity, and problem-solving abilities- essential attributes for entrepreneurial success.

The stigma surrounding mental health issues often prevents entrepreneurs from seeking help when they need it most. But just as they wouldn’t hesitate to consult experts for their businesses, they should be equally willing to seek professional guidance for your mental well-being.

Kgaugelo Phalane emphasizes the importance of mental health in entrepreneurship, saying, ‘Prioritizing my well-being has been instrumental in my production business. By taking care of my mental health, I’m able to stay focused, make better decisions and drive innovation “.

Your journey in enterpreneurship is an enduring one, and your mental health is the most precious asset.

Fireplace Fabrication With Flair: The Thomas Legodi Difference.

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In the world of home decor and design, a well-crafted fireplace can be a crowning jewel of any room. For Mashashane Pax based Matsobane Thomas Legodi, the proud founder and owner of ML Fireplaces & Solutions, creating these warm and inviting focal points is not just a job – it’s passion.

With years of experience in fabricating fireplaces, Matsobane has honed his skills in working with a variety of materials, from stone to brick to metal. His attention to detail and commitment to excellence have earned him a reputation as one of the top fireplace fabricators in the industry.

ML Fireplaces & Solutions was established in 2020, and what sets it apart is Matsobane’s ability to bring his clients’ visions to life. Whether it’s a modern gas fireplace or a traditional wood-burning hearth, he works closely with his clients to understand their unique needs and preferences.

Looking to the future, the 34-year-old has ambitious plans for ML Fireplaces & Solutions. He aims to take the ML brand to new heights, competing with established retail giants like Builders and Mica. His vision is to see ML Fireplaces & Solutions become a household name, synonymous with quality and excellence. But his aspirations don’t stop there. He has a bold plan to take ML global, expanding his reach beyond South Africa’s borders to supply top-quality fireplaces and braai areas to customers across Southern Africa and beyond.

“I want to see ML Fireplaces & Solutions become a leading brand in the industry, not just locally but nationally and internationally,” Matsobane says. “I believe that with hard work, determination, and commitment to excellence, we can achieve this goal and make ML a household name.” To achieve this vision, he plans to expand his product range to cater to a wider market, invest in cutting-edge technology to improve efficiency and quality and develop strategic partnerships with suppliers and retailers.

With his passion, expertise, and clear vision, Matsobane is poised to take ML Fireplaces & Solutions to new heights and make his mark on the global stage.

Today, ML Fireplaces & Solutions offers a wide range of services, from custom fireplace design and installation to maintenance and repair. Matsobane’s team of skilled craftsmen share his commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, ensuring that every project is completed to the highest standards.

Despite his success, Matsobane remains dedicated to his craft, continually seeking new ways to innovate and improve. He stays up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in fireplace design, ensuring that his clients receive the best possible solutions for their needs.

The support of family is essential to any artist, and Matsobane is no exception. The fabricator credits his son with providing the inspiration and motivation to keep going, even on the toughest days. When the going gets tough, he says, “I think of my son, and how he looks up to me. It reminds me why I do what I do, and it gives me the strength to keep pushing forward.”

Email: tmatsobane7@gmail.com
Facebook: Thomas Legodi
Whatsapp: 067 259 0573
Calls: 079 950 9741

MJ The Dancer Shaking Things Up.

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Junior Karabo Marilele AKA MJ The Dancer is the seasoned dancer, Master Of Ceremonies and a Disk Jockey born and raised in Soshanguve township in Pretoria, South Africa.

From a young age, Junior was exposed to the harsh realities of his township – gang violence and substance abuse were a constant part of his everyday life. Nonetheless, he learned to channel the hardships of his childhood into powerful dance moves that resonates with his fans.

Growing up in the township, MJ The Dancer never thought he would one day become a well-received artist. But with hard work, dedication and passion, he was able to make his dream a reality.

Junior realised his talent whilst in grade 10, he would stumble upon gatherings around the township, as he took the stage, people would get mesmerized by his flow, energy and moves. This secured several bookings for Junior. In that moment, MJ knew that the entertainment industry was for him. He saw the power that the stage had to tell stories, to spread messages, and to bring people together. From those days forward, MJ dedicated himself to learning more he can about the art form.

MJ says he was inspired by many people and different things but there are few that stands above. He tells The Red Dot that he was inspired by the legendary Michael Jackson and a few other legends in the industry.

Marilele is the proud Former Face Of Game Player Clothing and resident MC and he has worked with big names in the industry. He was crowned The Best MC Of The Year 2022 by the ….. Awards, and has shared stage with Mawhoo, Leon Lee, the late Vusi R5 and many more.

“The entertainment industry can be cruel and it isn’t for the faint hearted”. He said. One of the challenges that Junior encountered in his dancing career was coming into homophobic people who always had something to say about him, which affected his relationship between him and then management that led to then terminating their working contract on the 05th March 2024, but MJ says it was a blessing in disguise as he then decided to become an independent.

Junior is a proud member of the LGBTQ community.. “I’ve surrounded myself with people who supported me despite of my sexuality, therefore negative publicity does no longer slow me down and I’m blessed to have a strong pillar in my partner, by my side”. Said MJ

MJ says he is confident that his future is bright, and it is safe to say he is the next ‘IT’ artist in the industry. We can tell this by listening to his breath-taking future plans.

Facebook: Mjthedancer