Patricia Morei | Dineo’s Laundry & Services

Programme sponsor: Bauba Nuco

“My entrepreneurial journey has taught me that growth isn’t just about numbers – it’s about who you become along the way.”

I’ve always believed that every experience in life prepares you for the next one. Before I became an entrepreneur, I worked in very different environments – from Sun City Resort to the South African Police Service, and later as an assistant artisan at Anglo American Platinum. Those years taught me about discipline, commitment and hard work – values that became the foundation of my business.

The idea for Dineo’s Laundry & Services came to me while I was working in the mining industry. I asked myself what was next for me – how I could create something of my own and build a legacy beyond employment. I wanted to start something that not only met a need in the community but could also create jobs and I, ultimately, decided on opening a business offering laundry services. I bought a few machines, rented a small space in Phokeng, North West, and opened my doors.

In the beginning, it was tough. I’d work late into the night – sometimes until two in the morning – to make sure every customer received their laundry on time. At the same time, I had to find new clients and retain existing ones through quality service and consistency. Slowly, the business began to grow as word spread across nearby areas like Brits, Rustenburg, Ledig, Mogwase and Boshoek.

The turning point

After nearly a decade in business, I found myself wondering how to take things further. I wanted to grow but I wasn’t sure how to scale sustainably. That’s when I came across the Supplier Development Programme, powered by Raizcorp. At first, I worried my small business might not be ready, but I applied – and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. When I started the programme, I was nervous, but I told myself to relax – I was here to learn and grow, and I knew I would do both.

New systems, new confidence

Before the programme, I relied heavily on intuition. Now, I make decisions based on information, structure and financial insight. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned on the programme is the value of implementing proper systems – particularly payment and cash-flow management processes. These have given the business greater credibility and helped me track its performance accurately.

Another major step was securing a larger rental space, something I’d struggled with for years. The new premises have allowed me to take on more work and serve bigger clients, such as Royal Spa at Sun City, where the demand for high-quality, timely laundry services is constant. Working with clients like these has pushed my business to operate at world-class standards.

The journey has been one of growth and real transformation. Since joining the programme, turnover has improved by 8%, and our systems now run more efficiently than ever before. My thinking has also changed – I’ve learned the importance of diversifying clients, nurturing existing relationships and building a resilient, motivated team.

Looking ahead

My goal is to grow sustainably while maintaining service quality. Over the next few years, I plan to open three additional branches in high-footfall or underserved areas, hire 10 more staff members and introduce technology tools like POS systems and scheduling apps to track orders and improve logistics.

My biggest lesson

If I could go back to the start of the programme and offer myself some advice, I’d tell myself to relax, learn and trust the process. Growth takes time, but every lesson matters – and every client, no matter how small, truly counts.

A message to my sponsor

To my incredible programme sponsor, Bauba Nuco, thank you for believing in entrepreneurs like me. Your support has not only strengthened my business but also changed lives within my community. The knowledge I’ve gained will continue to create impact – in my business, my team and beyond.