#MakingIt – ‘Selling peanuts is my life’
This 20-year old young man who hails from Mozambique has found the answer of making a living through selling peanuts.
With the shortage of resources and employment in the country, Mr Emmanuel Sithole has taken to the streets of Winnie Mandela selling his fried peanuts for a living.
This 20-year old young man who hails from Mozambique has found the answer of making a living through selling peanuts.
Mr Sithole told The Tembisan that when he came to the country in 2015 he was sure he would find a job; however he was surprised at how he found it hard to find any employment.
“Before I could sell on the street, I searched for employment at various places but to no avail. I was lucky because my brother, who is also in the country and working, was able to look after me,” said Mr Sithole.
Mr Sithole said that through selling his tastey peanuts, which he prepares at home before taking them to the street, he is now able to help support his family back in Mozambique.
Mr Sithole said he is driven by the joy he gets when people support his small business by buying a small packet for R2.
His fried peanuts range from R2 to R110, varying on weight.
Mr Sithole is regularly based along Madiba Drive next to the Winnie Mandela Customer Care Centre, frequently called Winnie Clinic.
He said he has targeted customers from Phumulani Mall, soccer players and supporters of Winnie Mandela Zone 6 Sports Ground as he is based right opposite to the sports field.
Mr Sithole said that after he struggled to get a job, he had to use his cooking skills for a living.
“At home I use to help with cooking for the family. When I entered the business I knew I could use my cooking skills, although I do not have formal training in cooking. My customers are happy with my fried peanuts,” added Mr Sithole.
When asked about the recipe of his peanuts, Mr Sithole said he only uses salt to make his peanuts appetising.
His long term goal is to run a franchise company that will supply peanuts to local markets.
He is advising young people to follow their dreams and to use their skills and talents to make it in life.
“Stop resorting to crime, alcohol and drugs,” he said. Contact Mr Sithole on 084 923 9055.
