Car wash the start of bigger things?
This group of youth, who hold various certificates and diplomas from different institutions, took the initiative after they became tired of staying at home without employment.
Having a business idea is often the easiest part; turning it into a successful business takes a whole lot of planning, research and commitment.
A group of eight young members of Ililiba and Difateng sections, however, have managed to put their thoughts into action and officially launched a small car wash business on May 27.
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The members of this group of youth, who hold various certificates and diplomas from different institutions, took the initiative after they became tired of staying at home, having no success at finding employment.
Meisie Ramothibe (24), who came up with the car wash business plan, said it hasn’t been easy to live without employment while carrying a diploma in her hand.
“I felt I was getting brainwashed every day when I had nothing to do or keep busy with. I just thought starting a business as a group of youth could help us get somewhere in life. So, I just realised – you do not have to have a lot of capital to start a car wash,” said Ramothibe.
She said they are aiming big for the business.
“On the day of the car wash, we try and sell other items such as meals, drinks and snacks to be able to raise more capital,” she added.
Ramothibe said another good thing about starting this kind of a business is that there is no risk of losing start-up funds since you can start the business at home without investing too much capital.
“You do not need expensive equipment to start a car wash. All you need is a bucket, soap, access to clean water and good cloths. We really aim to make it in the business field through this type of startup business,” explained Ramothibe.
The group of eight has named their small business “Kasi Vibe Carwash”, and it will be rotating from each member’s place of residence.
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On the day of the business launch, the youth spent the day washing cars and later in the evening hosted after-party events where they gave a platform to local artists and deejays.
“We are hoping this type of event will help improve our finances so that we can gradually expand the business. Doing this type of business as a group encourages other youth to embrace small business ideas and make a living out of them instead of resorting to sugar daddies, blessers, crime, drugs and alcohol,” said Ramothibe.
Meanwhile Palesa Mokadi (25) said she felt depressed while staying at home doing nothing.
“I have been looking for a job with no luck for quite some time. And there are many challenges I come across as an unemployed parent. I used to feel like I failed in life because I could not provide for my child and I hate demanding from my parents every time. To stay at home doing nothing is not healthy at all. I am hoping for the best for this car wash,” added Mokadi.
Other members of Kasi Vibe Carwash are Mpho Mbalati (24), Mpho Langa (25), Thapelo Mbalati (28), Phetolo Ramothibe (33), Thato Moorosi (21), and Tankiso Masiteng (23).#MakingIt
