Entrepreneurship is a journey of determination, perseverance, and hard work. It offers hope and opportunity for those who may have struggled to find employment otherwise. The story of Ma Hlamalani Shilaluke is a perfect example of how entrepreneurship can change lives.
Growing up
Ma Hlamalani grew up in a rural village in Limpopo, where financial struggles were the norm. Even having food on the table was not always guaranteed. Despite these challenges, she attended school up to Grade 4 before deciding to work at an early age to contribute to the household income. “I decided to work at an early age so that we could have food”. However, opportunities were scarce, and she moved to Soweto at 15 to seek employment.
As a young girl alone in a big city, Ma Hlamalani found an old lady selling food at the taxi rank in Soweto. She offered her help and started her journey as an entrepreneur, learning the basics of running a business. After a few years, the lady’s children convinced her to retire, and Ma Hlamalani inherited the business.
The school of life
As for all entrepreneurs, this was a school in itself. Starting her own business was not easy, and she faced many challenges. She might have learned the fundamentals but still had a long way to go.
As a vendor at the taxi rank, she had to deal with constant changes in location and restrictions on what she could sell. The municipality decided to upgrade the taxi rank, and she was allocated an inappropriate space for a food stall. “The location would not work to run a restaurant, so I had to change my business. I sold sweets, snacks and fruit as the new spot had many passers-by”. But Ma Hlamalani persevered, changing her business model to adapt to the new location and challenges she faced.
Location plays a vital role in retail. Ma Hlamalani knew she needed to make another change when the local authorities moved her away from the thoroughfare after construction was completed at Walter Sisulu Square. She realised her new site was a good location for a restaurant. There are many places selling lunch on the square, so Ma Hlamalani differentiated by being one of the few breakfast options. “The people love my food and come looking for it. They especially love my soup – it’s my recipe and sells all year round”.
Hard work pays off
“I make sure that I’m at the square at 3 am every morning. Everything has to be prepared and ready at 5 am when the people start arriving.”
As the matriarch of her house, Ma Hlamalani has supported her family and put three kids through school with hard work and determination. “My husband doesn’t have a job, and it is only me and my children in our house.”
“The most important thing I learned in business is to stand by myself. I’m not well-educated, which means people don’t want to help you – they just want to take advantage of you. I have to work hard and can only depend on myself.” The money she receives from her Xhantela loan is helping Ma Hlamalani to grow her business. “I am expanding my menu and bringing in seasonal variety. Xhantela is always there for me when things are difficult in business. I will remain a Xhantela member.”
Ma Hlamalani’s story is an inspiration to all entrepreneurs. Her journey shows that with determination, hard work, and a willingness to adapt, anyone can succeed in entrepreneurship, regardless of their background or education level.
Photos by Shornespear Photography.