“Without prosperous local economies, the people have no power and the land no voice.” – Wendell Berry, novelist and farmer
On 30 June 2022, the second cohort of the Ranyaka Building Business Programme in Mamelodi came together to celebrate the incredible milestones achieved during their year-long journey.
Since its inception in June 2022, the programme has made remarkable strides, providing training and capacity building to 126 small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) from the greater Tshwane area. Additionally, the programme has successfully onboarded 20 key businesses, offering vital support in the form of business support, mentorship, and coaching.
Left to right: Bonkinkosi Buthelezi (Junior Buthelezi Cleaning Solutions) – Most Improved SMME; Constance Khubeka (Fit Muntuza); Nhlanhla Mkhwebane (Pixel Art Studios) – Most profitable SMME
“The RBB program has been a great experience that impacted both me and my business in a positive way. It has motivated us to procrastinate less and actually create a blueprint that will live on forever!” – Nhlanhla Mkhwebane (Pixel Art Studio)
“You need to be persistent, and trust the process!” – Bonginkosi Buthelezi (Junior Buthelezi Cleaning Solutions)
“Choose showing up for yourself in life and all will work on your favour.” – Constance Kubheka (Fit Muntuza)
Joe Motshabane (City of Tshwane) congratulates Dikeledi and Dimpho Bokaba (Star Cleaner Detergents) receive their certificate for Most Innovative SMME
“My experience with the RBB programme has been a very beneficial and informative one. I am now and independent manufacturer and because of you Ranyaka, my turnover has increased because of the sessions we had on how I could scale my business.” – Dikeledi Bokaba, Star Cleaner Detergents
Maropeng Madumo from Dado Foodies (Pty) Ltd
“We are able to cater for a larger number of people without sourcing out some equipment, all because of Ranyaka support. We understand our business and where we want to be in the next 12 months and 5 years”. – Maropeng Madumo (Dada Foodies (Pty) Ltd)
The graduation ceremony was a joyous occasion as it marked the culmination of the participants’ hard work and dedication. The achievements of the 20 SMMEs involved in the programme are nothing short of exceptional. Together, these entrepreneurs have created 56 jobs (predominantly full-time positions) that contribute to the growth and economic development of the community. This demonstrates the programme’s commitment to fostering employment opportunities and improving the livelihoods of individuals within the area.
Together, these entrepreneurs have created 56 jobs (predominantly full-time positions) that contribute to the growth and economic development of the community.
Makera Maila from Seliki Solutions – Building Business programme facilitator and mentor
Furthermore, the growth within these SMMEs is truly remarkable, with an impressive increase of almost 50% in their overall business operations. The dedication and resilience of these entrepreneurs have translated into substantial improvements in their profitability with a remarkable 60% growth in turnover and profits. These achievements not only validate the effectiveness of the RBB Incubator Programme, but also inspire hope for other aspiring entrepreneurs.
The graduation ceremony highlighted several key highlights that further underscore the programme’s impact. One notable success story involves a once-struggling SMME that managed to turn their fortunes around and nearly double their profits within a year. This incredible turnaround serves as a testament to the transformative power of the programme’s support, empowering entrepreneurs to overcome obstacles and thrive in challenging circumstances.
Thulile Mbuyane (Mama Tee Beverages) with Dimakatso Radaba (guest) and Onicah Theledi (Optimal Balance Mobile Spa)
“The RBB programme came when I had lost hope in business. It made me focus and be productive. I learnt that anything is possible if you have a team who believes in you.” – Onicah Theledi (Optimal Balance Mobile Spa)
Dimakatso Radeba, Itumeleng Masethe (Ranyaka Local Coordinator for Mamelodi), Koketso Radaba and Katlego Kgope.
One notable success story involves a once-struggling SMME that managed to turn their fortunes around and nearly double their profits within a year.
Additionally, the SMMEs have demonstrated their ability to challenge established monopoly businesses and claim their share of the photography industry. This represents a significant achievement, as these small businesses have defied the odds and carved out a niche for themselves in a competitive market. Their success serves as an inspiration to others, proving that with the right support and determination, any business can flourish.
Partnerships have played a pivotal role in the programme’s success, with the City of Tshwane committing to provide ongoing support to SMMEs in Mamelodi. This support signifies the City’s recognition of the importance of nurturing local talent and fostering economic growth within the community. Additionally, the RBB Programme has played a significant role in transforming the compliance space for SMMEs in Mamelodi. By providing guidance and resources, the programme has helped these businesses navigate regulatory requirements and operate in a compliant manner.
Malusi Mazibuko, Ranyaka Programme Manager
Partnerships have played a pivotal role in the programme’s success, with the City of Tshwane committing to provide ongoing support to SMMEs in Mamelodi.
Nedbank, a key partner in, and funder for the Ranyaka Building Business programme, has been thoroughly impressed by the impact of the SMMEs involved. The creation of 56 jobs by these entrepreneurs and the supportive environment they have built within the programme highlight the potential for sustainable growth and prosperity. Nedbank recognises the importance of empowering small businesses and supporting their endeavors, as they contribute to the overall economic development of the region.
Mpumelelo Mabuzo (Fundisang (Pty) Ltd) and Marli Goussard (Ranyaka Enterprise Development)
“It has transformed our thinking and elevated our behavior towards execution.” – Mpumelelo Mabuza (Fundisang (Pty) Ltd)
Mandisa and Sibusiso Xulu (Alcophylex) with Kgaotsang Molelekeng (Ranyaka Project Coordinator)
“The Ranyaka Building Business programme was and is the instrument that opened doors for us. It contributed to our growth and certainty that we will exist in the future.” – Mandisa Xulu and Sibusiso Mngomezulu (Alcophylex)
Thomas Maila (MNM Steel) and Marli Goussard (Ranyaka Enterprise Development)
Right: Building Business programme participant, Belgium Mabasa (The Swazi Connections) and his guest.
“The RBB Programme experience took us from dust to DOMINION. From strength to STRENGTH and to be professional.” – Belgium Mabasa
Solomon Mabuse (Damian Records), Building Business programme participant
“Since joining the RBB programme, my business is growing. I had been struggling with distribution, but now I have managed to start distributing locally within my community and make better profit. I am also starting to have branches outside Mamelodi.” – Solomon Mabuse (Daiman Records)
Tebogo Motlana (Global Enterprise Trainers) – one of our Building Business programme facilitators
Joe Matshabane (City of Tshwane) congratulates Lindiwe Masango from Lee Ice Cubes
“At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. I’ll never forget your support and kindness towards my business.” – Lindiwe Masango (Lee Ice Cubes)
Right: Nirmala Reddy (Nedbank Enterprise Development) and guest
Left: Kgaotsang Molelekeng (Ranyaka Project Co-ordinator) and Koketso Radaba | Right: Itumeleng Molopo (Caption Fabulous) and guest
Joe Matshabane (City of Tshwane) congratulates Dinah Setati (DeeLera Water Supply)
Left: Mpumelelo Mabuza (Fundisang (Pty) Ltd) | Right: Martin and Malebo Mokalapa (Ghost Paintball)
“We no longer run paintball only, but we have Ghost Paintball Foods. Thank you very much, Ranyaka. Mamelodi will never be the same! In two to three years, we will be creating more jobs!” – Martin Mokalapa (Ghost Paintball)
Left to right: Nhlanhla Mkwebane (Pixel Art Studios), Maya mphuti (LA Vaya Spa) and Joe Motshabane (City of Tshwane)
“The incubation programme with RBB has been one of note. The whole team focuses on ensuring our business has a fighting chance and with their endless support, it has been one worthwhile programme and all SMMEs would be fortunate to be in the programme.” Maya Mphuti (La Vaya Spa)
Dimakatso Radaba (Guest), Kgaotsang Molelekeng (Ranyaka Project Coordinator) and Koketso Radaba (Guest)
Mamelodi is one of 28 communities across South Africa where Ranyaka is implementing the Nedbank Proud of my Town initiative – and Building Business, which entails entrepreneurial support and enterprise development, is one of the key programmes that form part of Ranyaka’s overarching community development framework.