Nokulunga Dlamini | Zeno Trading Enterprise (Pty) Ltd

Nokulunga Dlamini | Zeno Trading Enterprise (Pty) Ltd

Programme sponsor: Exxaro

“I was taught what others see as a challenge, an entrepreneur sees as an opportunity”

Nokulunga Dlamini saw a need for logistics and mining services in her hometown of Kriel. In a male-dominated industry, she was looking to break the barriers through a woman-owned company. Unfortunately, she didn’t know where or how to start. “I had a lack of trust in myself concerning my business. I didn’t know how to introduce my business to the market,” she says.

She was lucky enough to be selected for a Raizcorp programme sponsored by Exxaro. When she started on the programme, her business was just an idea. “My business wasn’t operating,” she explains. “Immediately after graduating, I received my first tender.” Now, Zeno Trading owns its own truck and holds a three-year cleaning contract.

“At Raizcorp, I was taught what others see as a challenge, an entrepreneur sees as an opportunity for business,” she says. “This programme was an injection of light into my business.” Speaking to aspiring entrepreneurs she says, “There is no darkness that doesn’t pass – your passion and patience will prevail.”

In a thank-you message to Exxaro, Nokulunga implores, “Keep up the good work you do for the community. This has really gone a long way for my family, my business and me. While you thought you were only educating me, the fact is that the entire community has benefited. Thank you for impacting me and my community.”