By Mzukona Mantshontsho
KATZ GROUP is all about creating employment. Supporting the youth that can create employment is important. Shifting paradigms from employees to employers is important.
I spoke to Founder at Katz Group Katlego Tshabalala about her personal, professional and entrepreneurial journey thus far.
Tell us about your early life to your role today
As early as I can remember I was already an entrepreneur. My grandfather was a major player in the taxi industry, with a motor mechanics shop and a supermarket. My grandmother had an early childhood development facility which she still runs today. She always said to us: “Its smarter to employ yourself”.
What does your role mean to you?
Being an entrepreneur means that I can do more. I can change the future of our young people. I get to inspire and motivate other woman who wish or dream of starting something in their lives. But mostly, I’m interested in giving a voice back to our young men. Every project is aimed at the girl child. Our boys are smoking nyaope. They feel neglected, I’m definitely working on something to change that.
What are the most critical resources for your successful leadership?
Time management. Be Persistent. And always have the drive. You need a second skin to survive the entrepreneur world, it is not easy!
What can we expect from you going forward?
My aim is to change the way our men see the future. I can’t say much but I’m working on something that will have the boy child feeling proud to be a man.
What are your words of advice for young people, particularly women to start small businesses?
There is no time like the present. If you thinking about it…do it. Don’t worry about failing. Failure is a chance to start over. And there is no greater feeling than owning your success.
What are your thoughts on Covid-19 in terms of small businesses?
Covid 19 definitely destroyed us. But if we can survive this hard times, small businesses can survive anything.
What is the legacy that you would want to leave when you retire?
An Army of young people that can solve community problems head on. An empire born from like-minded women for our future generations.
How does your business contribute to the community?
By employing young men and removing them from street corners.
What have been your highs and lows of your working career?
The highs will be getting contracts. Hiring people knowing it’s not a part time gig, they will do this for years.
Lows: The Covid-19 pandemic and woman not given enough platform in construction is definitely a bummer.
When you not at work, what do you get up to, and where can people follow you or your business online?
I redirect my energy to spending time with my loved ones.
Facebook: Katlego Tshabalala including our business page Katzgroup
Instagram: Ms Mshengu
LinkedIn: Philadelphia Tshabalala
Tick tock: Katlego 557
