Giving up is not an option for Thomas Maila. Hailing from Mamelodi township in Tshwane, Gauteng, Thomas started MNM Stainless Steel Art and Projects in July 2012 after he found himself stepping away from the corporate world. Starting his own business was a bold move, but Thomas was ready to make a fresh start after his recent hardships. His entrepreneurial journey has not always been easy, but Thomas is serious about succeeding.

MNM Stainless Steel Art and Projects specialises in stainless steel and glass balustrade construction. Targeting the right audience is important for Thomas and his team. They focus on understanding their client’s needs before they start a project, emphasising quality, and using high-standard steel in their operations.

Employing nine people was a big milestone for Thomas. Together, they built their workshop and saw their business grow until the unexpected arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic affected their progress. Just like countless other businesses across South Africa and the world, they found themselves facing a few harsh realities.

Despite this setback, MNM Stainless Steel Art and Projects continues to bounce back. Their aim is to reach a turnover of R500,000 a month by 2025. Looking ahead, Thomas hopes his company will become a supplier to businesses of all sizes, catering to DIY enthusiasts with premium railings.

Participating in the Nedbank-funded Ranyaka Building Business programme was a turning point for Thomas. It shifted his focus from only working for a profit to creating a balanced business structure. The programme also provided him with valuable skills that help him with the day-to-day running of this business. He is currently researching how to source materials from China which will allow the business to undergo a rapid expansion.

Operating a business in the very competitive steel industry is difficult at times, but Thomas refuses to throw in the towel. Handling the challenges that come with owning a business requires resilience, knowledge, and caring for his employees’ happiness.

Thomas focuses on hiring experienced staff and empowering those eager to learn. When asked to share some of his wisdom with other aspiring entrepreneurs, he says: “Happy employees will lead to happy, satisfied clients.” This belief has played a big role in Thomas’s success to date.

Thomas’s journey is more than just business; it’s a lifelong commitment, a dream he is determined to achieve. His goal is not just long-term success, but to rank among South Africa’s top five small businesses. With such a positive attitude, the sky is the limit for Mamelodi’s budding steel entrepreneur.

Mamelodi is one of 31 communities in 8 provinces across South Africa where Ranyaka is implementing the Nedbank Proud of my Town programme. Building Business is one of 10 programmes that forms part of the Ranyaka and PoMT framework.