Empowering local tradespeople

The first group of 30 tradesmen and -women from the Builders Enterprise Programme recently graduated at a glittering ceremony.

The programme, aimed at developing and empowering black businesses, particularly small to medium enterprises, was launched in September 2015. Tradesmen and -women were selected based on a range of criteria developed by Builders together with training partners Black Supplies.

Aiming to provide additional skills and requirements to assist with their businesses, tradesmen and -women began a six-month training programme which included basic business management and technical skills in their respective trades.

The Vosloorus community yielded five proud graduates: David Manzini – builder; Douglas Mathenjwa – electrician; Thabang Tlhabanelo – painter; Lazarus Ntimane – plumber; and Mike Mthuke – tiler/flooring.

As part of the programme, Builders also helped them formalise their businesses by registering their companies BBBEE and tax compliant, and has contributed iPads, marketing materials and working tools suitable for each trade. Furthermore the tradesmen and -women were awarded with over R20 000 worth of Builders in-store accounts to use as capital for their business.

As they continue their venture into business, these tradesmen and -women are now able to do so equipped with the necessary training required for successful business.

“If it wasn’t for Builders’ training sessions I don’t think my business would’ve grown the way it has. I am very thankful to Builders,” commented new graduate, Brown Soodi from Cosmo City.

Builders is committed to principles of empowerment and community upliftment, hence the introduction of the Builders Enterprise Development Programme. This programme gives Builders the opportunity to play a real role in the sustainability and growth of our country’s economy.

For more information, contact Builders Customer Contact Centre on wecare@builders.co.za or visit www.builders.co.za.