Busi Dladla, a township-based entrepreneur, talks to us about the growth of her kota business in Soweto.
1. I started off as an informal trader; today, I’m the director of Zikhipani Soweto Fast Food Service. I was born into a poor family of eight children. I had to leave school when I was in grade 11 in order to help my mother to sell vegetables and animal heads to provide for our family. My parents died soon afterwards, so
I had to find a way to provide for my younger siblings. That is when my entrepreneurial spirit was ignited.
2. I started selling kotas and animal heads from a shack at the back of our home, using a two-plate stove. I managed to make enough money to buy stock, and to make ends meet. As my business grew, I upgraded the shack into a tuckshop, and gained more customers. I work hard on improving my business and keeping ahead of my competitors because there is a lot of competition in this business.
3. The Parmalat Phuma Phambili Programme helped me to be an innovative entrepreneur. Through the initiative, I learnt important business skills that helped me to become an innovative entrepreneur. My business now offers a telephone order and delivery service with eight outlets. I also offer healthier kota options as most of my customers are trying to eat healthy. I have big plans for my business as I’m currently working towards opening Soweto’s first kota drive-thru.
4. I’m excited to be a part of the thriving township fast food industry. My dreams are coming true and my business continues to grow. It has constant support from both my family and the community. I have come a long way – from being a high school dropout to being a part of the township economy. The future looks bright, and I’m confident in my abilities as a township entrepreneur.
