South Hills street vendor feeds 10 dependents from her table’s sales
Single parent depending on her profits from the sale of fruits and vegetables to sustain her family.
STREET vendor Gloria Mothiba depends on her table of fruits and vegetables to support her family of 10.
The 51-year-old from South Hills started her business in 2014 after failing to find employment. She is the only breadwinner for her children and sibling.
She sees to it that they have school uniforms, toiletries, money allowances and other necessities. She has no education, nor did she have the privilege to attend school. Gloria also has no work experience, but she believes her table will help her reach greater heights.
Gloria grew up in Mozambique but came to Johannesburg seeking greener pastures in the late ’90s.
She told the COURIER that she has eight children who are currently living in Mozambique with one of her siblings, who also has a child. These are the 10 people relying on Gloria’s support.
“My table feeds 10 people excluding me. I’m not complaining as long as I see my children happy. I’m always at this table, be it winter or summer. I don’t take leave. I work hard because every minute counts and profit generated here isn’t enough, but I have to keep going,” said Gloria.
She is currently renting a room and said that it is costly because every month she must pay her levy or she will be evicted. Therefore, she makes it a point to reach a daily target, which helps her balance her finances.
Gloria stocks her table with fruits and vegetables from the local market. On Gloria’s table, you will get tomatoes, potatoes, cabbages, carrots, beetroot and onion with prices ranging from R5 to R15.
“I’m not ashamed of standing next to my table full of fruits and vegetables. As long as my children are still dependent on me, I will continue selling fruits and vegetables.”
One of the residents said, “This lady is one of the hardest-working individuals. She knows what she wants in life. I hope her business grows to an extent that she opens her own farm.”
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