16 Jan 2017

Business is a risky adventure, the odds of its survival are in most instances equal to those of its collapse.

However, people continue to leave their top position jobs and monthly basic salaries to venture into and invest their savings in small businesses.

A typical example is 38-year-old Isaac Moeng, who resigned from his 18-year long job, where he worked as a branch manager and shifted his focus to an Internet café and coffee shop business.

Speaking to BOPA, Mr Moeng said he was inspired by a certain established coffee shop in Johannesburg and has ever since dreamt of owning an outlet of such caliber.

“Upon arrival from Johannesburg I started buying equipment one by one until I had a full collection enough to set up a convincing Internet café and coffee shop.By then I managed to get five computers and two printers,” Mr Moeng shared.

Mr Moeng further said he resigned in 2013 and started running two coffee shops in two different locations simultaneously and was amazed at what he made monthly, but later closed one business because of the then looming government financed Internet cafes.

He also said the competitors who led to the closure of his other business are currently out of business, as such he intends to re-open at the same location, adding that at the discovery of their closure he bought three more computers, three regular and one photo printer.

“Business is growing; I started off with one employee, but currently I have three graduates working for me. One is an IT graduate, the other health and safety graduate and the last one a graphic designer.

Another thing I am proud of is the house that is under construction all from the proceeds of my business,” Mr Moeng said.

Nevertheless, Mr Moeng noted that like any other business he has had some challenges from power cuts.

He said his machines operate with high voltage and can barely operate with his current backup generator.

Mr Moeng has also advised the public to adopt and practice the saving culture and invest their money where their passion is, csaying that in such instance one would ensure they do not  run at a loss.

He added that determination and self-improvement were vital in running a successful business.

He added that self-employment was way better than working for someone else and appreciated his former employers for offering him relevant business education.

For her part, Ms Keabetswe Metlhaleng, 28, said she was glad to be working for Mr Moeng.

She advised graduates to occupy themselves with opportunities that come their way so they do not resort to immoral acts or depression.BOPA