10 Jul 2017

In his maiden business voyage that spans almost two years in leather and tannery, Mr Ledirilwe Bula has rebuffed challenges associated with the trade.

The thought of starting afresh with another business that could prove more challenging and demanding than ‘the devil I know’ propelled him to continue, however, slow the pace could be.

Like in many start-up businesses funded through Nyeletso Lehuma, challenges were plenty, but he decided to soldier on.

At the Serowe Administrative Authority mini show expo on Saturday themed: Self-reliance and indigenous skills; Key to sustainable livelihoods, Mr Bula prevailed in almost every award category he entered  and in rarities he came second.

Hailed as a success story at the mini show exposition, Mr Bula expressed gratitude at the social workers for helping him chart his way.

Despite having managed to stand on his own, the 38-year-old son of Mere ward in Serowe, said he worked in constant contact with his mentors who informed him of the show and recent trends in the industry.

“Sometimes they would take my products and sell for me at shows when I am held up,” said Mr Bula who reckons the market for his leather products  are still at infancy.

Though he decries an infant market, upon completion of some of his hand-made products, Mr Bula would toil the streets of Serowe selling and marketing his products. Unlike some in the same trade who complain of unavailability and expensive leather, Mr Bula hardly experiences the same.

A graduate of the Department of Veterinary Services in leatherwork and tannery, Mr Bula has experienced an improvement in his sales since working with social workers, and finds the business ‘generally good’ despite a host of challenges.

Though still operating from home, plans are afoot to purchase a machine and source an operating space.

At the same exposition judge, Mr Samuel Tlhaodi, speaking on behalf of other judges decried lack of innovation and seriousness by exhibitors. He said there was insignificant growth in businesses and general disregard for competition rules.

Mr Tlhaodi said after three years of leniency the panel felt they promulgated the spirit of shoddy job and hence the move to tighten the screws.

The judges also observed with concern the habitual non attendance to expositions by some beneficiaries.

Exhibitors were warned about product quality and that they were in business to satisfy customer’s needs and that they should create products with consumers in mind.

The quality of products, it was said, had the potential to market a business from satisfied customers.

The managing director of Honeymoon Hotel in Serowe, Ms Sylvia Matimbela-Dambuza informed exhibitors that cultural tourism was a money-spinning business. She encouraged them to seek business connections with hotels and lodges where they would display their items and sell to tourists. ENDS