Check out this man who became an entrepreneur by accident
What was an old geyser now becomes a...
There are those moments in life that pose themselves as challenges but end up being opportunities in disguise. This is what happened with Matome Maphala, a 30-year-old man who was looking for a job and found his calling.
"Maphala, who studied electrical engineering and engineering drawing at Zurel Bros SA College in Polokwane and completed his electrical tradesman apprenticeship in 2017, became an accidental entrepreneur while trying to get a job." (Sowetan Live)
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While waiting, I kept myself busy by using my brother’s welding machine to learn how to weld. At the time, there was an old geyser in my parents’ backyard. I had an idea and suggested to my brother that we build a braai stand from the geyser. It came out perfectly.
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This started off his journey with Matswi Braai Stands. He began searching the neighbourhood for old geysers and buying them from people. Some people even donated their old geysers to him.
He works with his two brothers and a friend, and he has big plans to expand and supply retailers in the future. This was a stepping stone for him and he is focused on growing his business and encourages others to "consider going to a technical and vocational education and training college to learn skills the country has a shortage of." (Sowetan Live)
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I buy old geysers, and anyone can sell to me. People have also donated their old geysers to me. What I have learnt from my business is that recycling is important. If we normalise reusing any recyclable material, we will save the environment and have litter-free streets and parks.
We love his advice and his vision for the future of his business. It is stories like this that make us believe in the South African dream. If you have something you are passionate about and fear has come in your way, then use Matome's story to be your inspiration this 2022...
Image Courtesy of Facebook