Gladys Mtsweni | Shozonkempheni General Trading (Pty) Ltd

Gladys Mtsweni | Shozonkempheni General Trading (Pty) Ltd

Programme sponsor: Exxaro

“Thank you for giving me the platform to introduce my business and teaching me the right way forward”

Gladys Mtsweni is the proud owner of Glad’s Internet Café and Shozonkempheni Computer Training centre. From her office in Kriel, Gladys offers computer training in Microsoft Office, typing and accreditation in basic computer skills. Her internet café provides internet access and basic admin functions to her community. “I want to help the youth in government schools, especially grade 12 learners,” she explains.

Becoming an entrepreneur was a dream of hers dating back to her schooldays. Her passion for computers led her to start her own business in 2014. When she opened for business, challenges included starting capital, premises and accreditation with SETA (Sector Education and Training). It was important for her to receive her SETA accreditation because it proved that she was compliant with NQF (National Qualifications Framework) standards.

In 2020, Gladys was selected for the Exxaro business-development programme powered by Raizcorp. “Even though it can be hard, I’ve had to pay more attention to my business. I’ve had a 2% increase in profit over the last year – I’m not giving up!” she says.  Through the learning and guiding (mentoring) sessions on the Exxaro programme, she has learned about systems and procedures, sales and marketing, bookkeeping and presenting her business to the public and investors.

“Exxaro, thank you for giving me the platform to introduce my business and teaching me the right way forward. You’ve given me the confidence to believe I can do this and helped me grow,” she says. “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to invest my knowledge in my business.”