Kopane Mabasa is the driving force behind The Swazi Connection, a business centered on technology and community. His business journey consists of a mix of different experiences. With a background in Information Technology (IT) and telecommunication, he has held diverse roles across different industries and continents. The Swazi Connection emerged from a combination of his vast knowledge and a strong commitment to making a difference.

When Kopane started The Swazi Connection it was not just for the sake of opening the doors to a business. It was also about making a valuable contribution to the local economy. Passionate about seizing as many available tech opportunities as possible, his overall aim is to bridge the digital divide and empower communities.

Exciting milestones
Apart from offering regular IT services to clients, The Swazi Connection also contributes to social progress. Their mission is clear: to ensure that every household and office in their community has access to technology. They dream of a future where IT and telecommunications promote economic and social development. The team has already landed major deals, focusing on digital migration and installations, and confirming their commitment to connecting people through technology.

A particularly exciting milestone on The Swazi Connection journey has been the granting of an ECS licence to the business to resell electronic communications services. The Swazi Connection is currently rolling out VSAT Satellite and wi fi installations in the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga, with plans to install in other parts of the country and beyond!

Tackling challenges, dreaming big
Kopane is not shy to talk about the challenges his business has faced. They range from receiving huge purchase orders without a way to deliver them to dealing with difficult people and overdue payments. Despite these hurdles, he remains positive and is grateful that the business is steadily overcoming these and other obstacles.

While he has big dreams for his business, Kopane’s short-term focus lies on efficiently delivering existing contracts and building a good reputation. Plans include market-specific ventures, such as catering to the Christian Television audience and exploring IPTV opportunities, demonstrating their creative approach.

Growth through the Building Business programme
Kopane and his team appreciate the role that the Nedbank-funded Ranyaka Building Business programme has played in their journey. In addition to providing essential funding support, it has also equipped them with important business skills that have played a big part in their success to date.

When it comes to aspiring entrepreneurs, Kopane’s advice is very simple: “Research extensively, comply with legal requirements, value employees and customers, and prioritise your efficiency. Dedication, compliance, and customer focus all help pave the road to success.”

For Kopane, the most fulfilling aspect of having his own business is the freedom to draw up schedules, delegate tasks, and collaborate with like-minded individuals. The sense of accomplishment he enjoys from being at the helm of The Swazi Connection keeps him passionate.

The Swazi Connection represents the power of technology, dedication, and resilience. Kopane’s journey is inspiring and proves that passion and forward-thinking methods make it easier for businesses to overcome obstacles and make a lasting difference in communities.

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.