Youth turn passion into a business

South Africa has unemployment issues and a struggling economy, and the situation has worsened during the pandemic as more companies closed down and workers were given retrenchment packages.

With the unemployment rate at 43.2% and 46.3% for the youth, more people are opting to open their businesses as a solution.

One of the people who saw business ownership as a breakthrough strategy to fight unemployment is the founder of Ghetto Bakery, Mpho Moloi. He works with Nosiviwe Botha, the supervisor, Teboho Mokeretla, the team leader, and Charlie Phohleli.

Ghetto Bakery is based at 545 Hattingh Drive, Vosloorus.

Moloi said they identified a gap for bakery services in the community, but they are driven by passion more than anything.

They sell pies and scones at designated drop-off points, including East Rand Mall, Bree Taxi Rank, MTN Taxi Rank, Palm Ridge, Naledi Mall, Daveyton, Wattville, Chris Hani Mall and Somhlowa Taxi Rank.

Ghetto Bakery has 15 employees who hope to grow and employ more people to combat the high unemployment rate.

Moloi said they wish to grow into confectionery with branches around Gauteng, catering for everything concerning baking.

“We want to make it easy for people who host events locally and to cut the cost of transport. We create employment for locals,” said Moloi.

Botha said her life has changed since they started the business as she can make ends meet.

Botha used to own her business selling brayed chicken feet. She explained it was difficult to survive as there was no market, the business was slow.

Phohleli said he became part of Ghetto Bakery because of his passion for baking. He has obtained an NQF 3 food, wine and beverage certificate from Phakamani College.

For more information about Ghetto Bakery contact Moloi on 083 697 4778.