Dressed in a crisp suit, Victor Banda (8) of Midrand danced to classic tunes, rhythmically swiping cards and dishing out change at Pug Rescue’s ABBA-themed fundraiser on April 11.

While loyal supporters of the Brentwood Park-based animal welfare organisation showed up en masse for a day spent on sprawling lawns to enjoy good company, fun and laughter under the gentle autumn sun, young Victor was manning his stall, gaining valuable business experience while making a valuable contribution to the organisation’s flat-nosed residents.

Between serving customers, Victor straightens his suit, wipes his glistening shoes and takes a seat, proudly announcing that he is in Grade Three and the CEO of his own business.

Like a man who has built an empire from the ground up, Victor, the driving force behind Victor’s Shop, said that last year he made R10 000 selling home-made blankets and baby linen.

His recent collaboration with Pug Rescue is his proudest achievement.

“Through the church, I met a man called Mark. I never asked his surname. He became my best friend, but he passed away last year,” said the Midrand Christian School learner.

“He used to tell me that he often visited Pug Rescue to support their fundraisers. After he died, I was very sad and asked my mom and dad if we could come to Mark’s favourite place and experience why he loved it so much.”

Pausing the conversation, Victor gets up to serve another customer, carefully, in big letters, writing down their names as noting their purchase.

“Like Mark, I also fell in love with this place, and in his honour, I wanted to do something that would help aunty Cheryl and uncle Malcolm Gaw,” he said, straightening a paw-print blanket.

“We decided that I will sell my fluffy blankets at the monthly fundraisers at a reduced cost. Customers can buy the blankets for themselves or donate them to the doggies.

“Sales are great! I have sold 32 blankets today alone.”

Of his growing enterprise, Victor said his mom, Shylet, is a key role player in the operation.

“Mommy cuts all the material and pins the seams so that I don’t ruin the material or hurt myself. I then use the overlocker to sew the edges and then use the sewing machine to make the items,” he said.

“I can make up to five blankets in an hour. That’s a lot of work and I must concentrate.”

Stepping into the conversation, Shylet said that, as parents trying to raise well-balanced children in a technologically driven world, they are proud of a son who prefers working with his hands to being glued to a screen.

“When Victor said he wanted to start a business, we encouraged him wholeheartedly, realising that entrepreneurial skills would serve him well in the future,” she said, beaming.

“However, when he decided to use his skills and products to give to others, we realised that our son is not only business-minded but that he is deeply sympathetic towards the plight of others.”

Helping his family

Gushing, Cheryl, founder of Pug Rescue SA, said it is heartening to meet a driven young man who is not only honouring the legacy of a dear friend, but who selflessly serves as the mouthpiece of curly-tailed pugs.

“He is an extraordinary young man with the potential to achieve great success,” she said.

Speaking about his motivation to grow his business while still ensuring that he aligns with charitable work, Victor said his parents are his role models about how hard work pays off.

“My mommy and daddy wake up every day to go to work so that we can have everything we need,” he said.

“I also wanted to help, and that’s why I started this business. I hope to introduce new products such as dog toys, as well as baby pillows.”

Of his profits, Victor said he will buy himself a toy, treat his parents to dinner and also splurge on a month’s groceries.

“If I am in control of buying the groceries, I can buy the stuff mommy doesn’t,” he said with a giggle.

“If I’m paying, mommy cannot say no to sweets and ice cream.”

To follow Victor’s journey or to support his vision in ensuring every dog has a warm, comfy blanket got to Facebook and TikTok @Victor’s Baby and Kids Shop or contact Shylet via WhatsApp on 078 459 9406.

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