Raphela makes waves in the printing business with his township operation
However, his shop is still confronted with challenges, including not having a suitable workshop. He is also in need of modern printing equipment.
Printing projects can cost a lot of money when sourced from mainstream printing companies which make it difficult for SMMEs to brand themselves.
Founder of Dibata Multimedia and Communications Peter Raphela (51) said his township-based printing shop offers reasonable prices for all printing jobs. Raphela joined the working class in 1982 as a gardener. He held that job for five years.
“During that time it was easy to get menial jobs if you did not have a skill. In 1986 I worked for a construction company as a shutter hand and building assistant. I did that job for six years.
“During that time I had a dream of becoming a policeman. When my father died, all my plans were dashed and could not become a policeman.
“When the construction job ended, I went back to Limpopo and stayed there for two years without a job,” said Raphela.
He said he had a friend who owned a silk screen printing outfit. After discussions, the friend employed him as a helper in the printing shop.
“I am a quick learner. I worked as a helper for three months. The owner taught me the trade, and quickly I had learned the skill. Within a short space of time, I expertly performed tasks that were assigned to me. I worked there for eight years as a printer assistant,” says Raphela.
Raphela said the printing firm closed down as the owner had to relocate to Italy.
He got another printing job which he held down for seven years. However, the company was liquidated. Raphela used his payout to buy his own silk screen printing machine and started working from home.
Ten years later, this entrepreneur is making good progress in his printing business.
However, his shop is still confronted with challenges, including not having a suitable workshop. He is also in need of modern printing equipment.
“But despite these difficulties, my company is excelling in what it does. I love this job and I want to grow the business to create employment opportunities for more people.
“In future, I want to see Dibata Multimedia and Communications handling big accounts,” Raphela said.
Raphela works with his son Tshepo Raphela (27) who is also honing his skill in the printing business. Together they have done work for companies such as SABC, ANC, City of Ekurhuleni, Coca Cola and Randwater. They also do some work for a well-known comedian, Mashabela, among others.
“Aspiring printers need to have a passion for what they do, and know how to avoid mistakes.
“They can also work as volunteers in printing companies to learn more about the trade,” said Raphela.
To know more about Dibata Multimedia and Communications call Raphela on 072 251 5218.
