Washing one shoe at a time is helping local aspiring businessman Sibusiso Mabena to get closer to his dream.
While growing up he always dreamed of owning a business and being able to employ others. Last year he decided to start Bena’s Shoe Care, which is now going from strength to strength.

His future plans include growing his business to the stage of having franchises countrywide.

Mabena said his mother inspired him to have a business of his own. “She raised me to believe in buying and selling things for profit. In our home we were selling snacks and other things such as vegetables,” he explained.

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He then decided to research what kind of business he can do. “While searching on social media I came across a guy who washes shoes in Gauteng. I decided to try it. There is no one in Lydenburg/Mashishing who has this kind of business. I left my job as a waiter to focus on this,” he said.

Just like any businessman, Mabena has faced challenges that have helped him to grow and improve his skills.

“I remember I had to wash one of those branded shoes that had two different colours on it. While washing, the blue came off and mixed with the white part of the shoe. When I realised this I approached the owner and explained what had happened. Fortunately, he understood. I now know that each shoe needs to be given special attention,” he said.

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Mabena has recently employed one person. “We will be moving to a new location so that I will not be working from home any longer.”

He also drops and collects shoes from the owners for R5 per trip.

“The prices that we charge per shoe depends on the type of shoe that I wash. It ranges from R30 to R50, although the price is determined by the work that needs to be done.”

Mabena said he is also an influencer and master of ceremonies. The business currently operates from his home at 1210 Crossroad, Mashishing.