#MakingIt – Ngobeni serves soul food

Mr Levis Tumelo Ngobeni feeds the community of Tembisa with a ‘Kota’, which also feeds the soul.

Oratile Sphatlo may be one of many spaza shops selling ama-Kota (1/4 bread with chips and other delicacies) but this kitchen’s food stands out from the rest.

“Nothing about us is without love,” said Mr Ngobeni.

This committed man of God took a decision to name his food according verses in the Bible.

The young entrepreneur said he doesn’t want to only feed people, he also wants to nurture the community spiritually.

“Some people thought I was taking chances with my business model. Eight out of 10 people supported me and God blessed me – the demand is growing.

“I moved from a zozo hut to a garage,” said the entrepreneur.

Kota names in this shop start from a cheap Kota named Genesis 41 verse 13, which has chips, polony and costs R7.

The last number and well priced Kota, with assorted delicacies, is named Revelations 22 verse 7 and costs R23.

“I keep a Bible in the shop for customers to refer to while waiting for their orders,” said Mr Ngohbeni.

He said he was created for business and he is not ashamed of what he does for a living.

“Don’t wait for an opportunity, create an opportunity,” said this former Masiqhakaze Secondary School pupil.

Mr Ngobeni worked for a pizza shop in 2011 and he said that is where he developed his love for food.

His hard work saw him promoted to a management position and he said in that way God was preparing him for his own business in the food industry.

“My Kota kitchen is formally registered and complies with all business requirements,” he said.

He said he named the business after his child and he wants to see his business grow and move into malls to compete with professional food outlets.

Mr Ngobeni wants to move to a competitive space where he can develop his Kota business into a franchise and leave a legacy in the food industry.

“Here we put our customers first and that is what sets us apart,” he said.

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