Community Upliftment

Meadowlands Shack Upgrade: Uplifting Local Entrepreneurs and Communities

Published on Friday, 01 September 2023
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We are thrilled to announce a heartwarming initiative by Cashbuild, your trusted building material retailer.

 

Our dedicated efforts have focused on supporting local entrepreneurs in Meadowlands, who have been offering delightful hot food to our valued local customers from their cosy setups outside our store.

 

This donation consisted of refurbished shipping containers for three remarkable small enterprises. These entrepreneurs have displayed remarkable resilience, trading persistently over an extended period. This contribution echoes Cashbuild’s enduring commitment to investing in the communities surrounding our stores. Notably, this is the second time Cashbuild has invested in local entrepreneurs, demonstrating our commitment to promoting growth.


The continuous success of the Mabopane Local Enterprise Centre, located in the thriving township of Mabopane, just north of Tshwane, serves as further evidence of our dedication to community investment.

 

Thembelani Tukwayo, Community Support Initiative Manager at Cashbuild, emphasises the importance of these projects within communities facing diverse challenges. “These projects,” he enthuses, “serve as valuable support for local enterprises and align harmoniously with South Africa’s National Development Plan (NDP).” The NDP’s programme includes economic growth and job development, with a strong emphasis on supporting small businesses—a theme we strongly support.

 

Our ongoing Khula Nathi programme, geared towards cultivating thriving local enterprises, resonates perfectly with the nation’s overarching goals. We have no doubt that it can make a big contribution to accomplishing our common goals.

 

Now, let’s meet the stars of our narrative: two remarkable ladies in Meadowlands who have transformed their small eateries from humble shacks into vibrant spaces. This upgrade not only elevates their entrepreneurial journey but also enhances the experience for their cherished customers.

 

Suzan Manyemula, a beneficiary of this initiative, joyfully shares, “After years of toiling in shacks outside Cashbuild, these containers have made us feel incredibly special. Our persistence has been rewarded, attracting new customers who recognise our enhanced setup. And yes, our loyal patrons are still right here with us. Cashbuild’s generosity warms our hearts.”

 

Josephine Motshegwa, a food vendor since 2003, has seen her business flourish, cultivating a dedicated customer base. A breadwinner for a family of five, she also supports her sisters’ children in pursuing education. Her business not only supports her family but also provides valuable employment for one assistant.

 

Despite her limited formal education, Josephine thrives in the informal business realm due to her extensive experience. She reflects, “Transitioning from shacks to containers is a monumental step. I’m no longer just testing the waters; I now run a bona fide small business, earning genuine respect. This transformation is truly empowering.”

 

Joining these two inspiring women is Andrew Mashaba, a local community member skilled in aluminium installation, who further enriches this uplifting tale.

 

At Cashbuild, we’re honoured to play a role in these transformative stories, championing growth, empowerment, and community bonds. Your support fuels our commitment, and we’re excited to continue creating positive change together.