From driver to business owner

Piet, who was previously a driver for an international packaging and paper group, was given an opportunity to start his own business in 1998.

This has not only afforded Matentshi the opportunity to run his own business but has also enabled him to create employment opportunities for 10 other people.

This KwaThema resident owns two trucks and collects about 10 tonnes of paper per day, Monday to Friday.

He collects recovered paper in the Randburg and Sandton areas as well as in Germiston, Edenvale and Alberton.

“My day starts at 7am and only ends once I have finished all my collections in the respective areas,” says Piet.

He takes pride in his work and with the fact that two drivers and eight assistants that work with him to recover paper for Mpact.

“Being my own boss has taught me to have self-discipline and perseverance.

“Budding entrepreneurs need to be aware that a successful business does not happen overnight. It takes a lot of commitment,” he says.

His advice to the youth is to get up and work as nothing is for free.

He adds waiting is not going to put food on the table.

“The business of recycling is what has made the difference in my life. I have been able to provide for my family, buy a house and send my children to university,” he says.

But in the meantime Piet loves what he is doing and states there is absolutely no stress in this business.

Piet’s dream is to retire one day and let his son-in-law Solly Makake take over the business, but he still feels motivated to carry on.

Piet adds greater participation is needed at a community level which will create more jobs for others.

Mpact only provides the orange Ronnie Recycler bags for paper recycling.

Household recyclables can be dropped off at any of the Mpact paperbanks in the area.

If people wish to find out where they can get a Ronnie bag or about collection initiatives in their neighbourhood, from home or at community depots, they can call Mpact’s on 0800 022 112 or e-mail info@mpact.co.za.