03 Dec 2018

Some youth have not allowed the challenges of unemployment to drive them to crime or social ills such as alcohol and drug abuse, but turned them into opportunities to kick-start their own businesses.

One such young person is 34-year-old Mr Oitshephile Mosanako of Moshupa, affectionately known as Rasta.

Rasta found it fit to start his own welding and fabrication business to create employment for himself instead of whining about the unfairness of life.

The passionate, skillful and ambitious young man said he started operating his business in 2006 in Gamatsila ward, a stone’s throw from Maisantwa main bus stop.

“I started developing passion for welding at a tender age and after completing my junior certificate, my uncle introduced me to the industry. What started as a passion and a dream turned into a reality,” he said.

He said he had no formal qualifications in welding, but decided to use skills acquired over the years to specialise in making tuck shops, burglar bars, bull tracks, grave covers, and cattle brands, among others. He also repairs damaged metal products.

Even though he acknowledges that advertising plays an important role in business success, Rasta said he never advertised his business but rather his quality does.

“To write, measure and cut as well as assemble the pieces needs focus, so it is that kind of a job that eliminates stress since my mind is always occupied,” he said.

He said due to fewer competitors in the village, his business was doing well, adding that he envisages opening other businesses to take advantage of the available and untapped market. He encouraged other youths in business not to despair when times were hard, adding that they should not expect big profits when they start but concentrate more on growth.

Mr Mosanako said the willingness to learn and be guided was paramount to success.. ENDS