Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mbali Bhengu, Founder of Mindswitch, located in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own two businesses - the first one being a highly productive hygiene company specialising in the procurement and supply of cleaners as well as hygiene equipment. We currently have a staff complement of 15 employees. The company is called Zizwe Hygiene. In addition, I also have an SME leadership company specialising in assisting SMEs to become the best version of themselves through skills development and general business consultancy. That business is called Mindswitch.
Tell us about yourself
I was motivated to begin these businesses because I consider myself a gap specialist - wherever there is a gap, I see myself starting businesses and working towards producing a service or product that is beneficial. I have never been attracted to corporate life but occasionally will accept a job to assist a corporate organisation from a branding perspective. I am motivated by creating impact and legacy for the current and next generation - that is probably my biggest purpose - to continue being the best version of myself.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think my biggest accomplishment is being able to feed 15 families each month. This will always be my pride and joy, and I am honoured that God chose me and believed in me to perform this task.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Working with people. Believe it or not, people carry so many attitudes, beliefs, and agendas that it becomes incredibly difficult to navigate through everyone and understand everyone. You really need people skills and emotional intelligence to master the business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know why you want to start a business - your 'why' is important. Understand your why and believe in your why. This is a mental journey.
- Find a niche - an audience that will exclusively support you no matter what. This is the quickest way to make money.
- Manage your money - keep making mistakes but learn from them as well. Nobody gets it right but learn from your mistakes.
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mbali.bhengu.58
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mbali_bhengu_/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PartnershipsSme
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3ZBsqUb
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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