By Keletso Mkhwanazi.
A university graduate has found a way of beating the unemployment blues by establishing a business to clean up dirty sneakers. Enough Mhlanga founder and manager of King Sneaker Cleaner, which was established in 2021 and is based in Daantjie Pienaar, Mpumalanga province, told Vutivi Business News that he earns at least R4000 a month.
The 26-year-old entrepreneur earned a Diploma in ICT (Information in Technology) from the University of Mpumalanga in 2018 and noticed that most individuals are too lazy to clean their sneakers. “Because the majority of individuals who wear trainers work, I felt that I should make it my duty to take care of them, he said, adding that during the development of his business, he faced obstacles in dealing with diverse clientele,” said Mhlanga. “I had to tap into entrepreneurial communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to adapt to changing systems,” he said.
Mhlanga said he has added services such as colour restoration, suede upkeep, and shoe polishing and shining to his business. “My short-term goal is to have my container and four permanent employees, and my long-term goal is to have branches throughout the Mpumalanga province and the surrounding areas,” he said.
Mhlanga feels that the Department of Small Business Development should collaborate with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) because the majority of registered small enterprises are not supported and it is difficult to obtain money or support. “I suggest that they partner with CIPC, have a database of all registered companies, and find a way of assisting them, especially those that are based in rural areas,” he said.
His suppliers include Angelus Dye Producers and PnA. “Angelus supplies me with trainers, dyes, and detergents, whereas PnA provides me with paints and brushes. Our relationship is healthy since we understand one another and can work together,” he said, adding that maintaining a good relationship with suppliers also helped his business thrive.
Mhlanga advised entrepreneurs to learn to constantly be optimistic, regardless of the situation or competition. “They must always be wary of fraud, investors, and the industry since not everyone who claims to help has good motives. He claimed that many people steal other people’s ideas and businesses in the name of investors and funders,” he said. – news@vutivibusiness.co.za
