#MakingIt – Entrepreneur makes it in cocktails

While a number of young people’s futures become engulfed by various social ills, there are still those who concentrate on building their lives against all odds.

Tembisa entrepreneur, Mr Arabang Kekana, said he is devoted to his small business and education, which will ensure that he becomes a better person.

“Begging is not my style so I prefer doing things for myself. From a young age, at 14 years, I used to sell muffins to school pupils to make money.

“I noticed my capabilities in business while at secondary level. I was never ashamed to sell to people of my age. I knew what I wanted and I never doubted myself,” said Mr Kekana.

Mr Kekana, who is studying business management with South West Gauteng College, hopes to reach greater heights in business.

Mr Kekana has already worked for various companies to gain experience.

“In all the companies that I worked for, I never lasted because I knew I was my own boss. I worked as a cocktail barman and waiter; however; I only worked after school hours. I then realised that the hours I had to spend working were starting to affect my education.

“With the experience I gained as a cocktail barman, I used it to start my own business,” said Mr Kekana.

He said even if he is a businessman, he does not allow anything to distract him from studying.

“After all, education is the key to success. I enjoy studying business management because it helps direct me to construct a well-established business,” said Mr Kekana.

He said he started a cocktail business as he realised it was scarce in the township.

He operates a mobile cocktail business called Urban Liquor and is mostly based in White House Lounge.

“I market my business to different places and I also serve at weddings, parties, events and other functions,” said Mr Kekana.

Mr Kekana, who attended Sir Pierre Van Ryneveld High School, said he was also inspired by local businessmen who he often spends time with.

“It is advisable to surround yourself with great thinkers – those who will lead you through rough paths. As a young adult, I advise the youth to step back and rethink life and know your self-worth. That way you will achieve your life goals,” said Mr Kekana.

Mr Kekana hopes to enrol with the University of South Africa to further his studies in business management.

When asked where he hopes to see himself in five years, Mr Kekana said he wants to have several branches of his business across the country.

“My wish is to be recognised by corporate companies and to grow my business,” he said.