Township businesses get a boost

Nomagugu Makhubela, executive director of the company, said they brought small-business owners together under one roof to network and share business ideas.

Makhubela said Ekurhuleni Lokshin Biz Hub was the idea of business owners from various backgrounds.

“The idea of forming the company came after we realised that township businesses need to stand up and do things for themselves, yet differently. It was evident that small businesses must step out of their comfort zone and start to grow,” said Makhubela.

She said one of their aims is to bring to the townships all government entities that provide financial and non-financial support to small businesses.

“We aim at working with ambitious businesses that want to grow their bottom line, boost their profile and create new business growth,” she said.

She said their main goal is to help people think differently about their businesses and explore various ways of developing their companies.

Several small-business owners came out to display their products.

“We didn’t get the turn-out we expected, but the exhibition was a success. We were expecting about 35 businesses to turn up on the day, but only 16 managed to come through.

“However, more than 50 per cent of the exhibitors managed to close deals on the day. And I am still receiving calls from people who want to be linked to some of the exhibitors,” said Makhubela.

She said the response to the concept is humbling.

“It looks as if lokshin business people were waiting for such an opportunity to come up and open doors for them,” she said.

Makhubela said there are three executive members within the company who business owners can contact for assistance:

*Nomagugu Makhubela, executive director, on 079 239 0662

*Kamohelo Majeng, non-executive director, on 073 829 2352

*Tsetsani Mavuso, non-executive director, on 084 790 2219.

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