Pumza Gwabeni | Nhaka the Legacy Group

Programme sponsor: Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA)

“I’ve created employment for nine people so far – and I know this is just the beginning.”

Some people become entrepreneurs by chance. For me, it was destiny. I always knew I wanted to run my own business, but that belief was deeply rooted in watching my mother. With only a primary school education and no formal employment after marriage, she supported our family through a series of businesses. More than that, she empowered women in our community to start their own ventures, forming investment societies that have transformed lives for over three decades. I knew that, with the education I had, I could take that legacy even further.

That legacy became Nhaka The Legacy Group – a construction company based in Port Elizabeth that specialises in building maintenance, repairs and renovations. Our goal is simple but powerful: to ensure buildings serve their intended purpose safely and comfortably. While our home base is Port Elizabeth, our impact stretches across the Eastern Cape, primarily serving corporate and government clients.

Entering a new phase of growth

When I came across the Raizcorp programme on social media, I was at a critical point in my business journey. I had survived the early startup stages but needed support to build something sustainable and scalable. I applied, and the screening process was tough. At times, I thought I wouldn’t make it through but I gave each assessment and interview everything I had. When I was accepted into the programme in 2023, I knew I was stepping into something that could change everything. And it did.

From day one, I felt like I had walked into a community of people who genuinely wanted to see me succeed. I’d been through business coaching before, so I had some idea of what to expect – but nothing prepared me for the depth of learning and support I’d receive. The programme felt like I’d gained a board of directors for my business: a trusted team I could bounce ideas off, get honest feedback from and grow alongside.

Practical tools, real results

One of the most transformative lessons I’ve learned has been in business financial literacy. I came into the programme with a basic understanding of finance, but Raizcorp took it to another level. I now use a monthly financial dashboard that gives me a real-time view of my business performance. For example, in early 2024, I anticipated a cash flow strain due to overlapping, capital-intensive projects. Thanks to my new skills, I secured an overdraft facility in advance and arranged invoice discounting to maintain liquidity. That foresight protected the business during a financially challenging period.

I’ve also implemented structured systems across the business. That’s allowed my team to operate efficiently, even when I’m not around. In fact, I took a two-week break in 2024 – during active projects – and the work didn’t skip a beat. That was a proud moment for me.

Beyond finance and systems, I’ve also grown as a leader and entrepreneur. I used to think of myself as a technician, always involved in the day-to-day operations. But Raizcorp taught me the importance of stepping back and leading strategically. I’ve since delegated more responsibilities, empowering my team to manage projects and freeing me up to focus on growth.

Finally, I’ve learned to seize every opportunity to promote my business – whether it’s a quick 60-second elevator pitch to a potential client or a formal presentation in a corporate boardroom. These skills have significantly strengthened my ability to network, pitch with confidence, and grow my business strategically.

From survival to impact

Since joining the programme, I’ve grown my team to nine people, both permanent and contract. That growth came from implementing a client segmentation strategy – an insight I gained through my experience working with Volkswagen Group South Africa. I divided our market into three key segments and built dedicated teams to manage each one. This approach has improved our efficiency, our service and our ability to take on more work.

It humbles me to know that I’m now providing a stable income to people who had nearly given up hope. In today’s economic climate, I understand what that means for their families – and I don’t take that lightly. It’s an honour to be part of their journey, just as Raizcorp and VWSA have been part of mine.

Building towards the future

Looking ahead, my goal is to register Nhaka the Legacy as a grade 5 general building contractor with the Construction Industry Development Board. That would allow us to tender for projects valued up to R10 million, opening the door to even greater impact – more jobs, more development and better returns.

And I’m already thinking beyond contracts and profits. I’m committed to paying it forward by training young construction management graduates, sharing the knowledge I’ve gained, and building a truly sustainable business that uplifts my community.

A message to my sponsor

Thank you, Volkswagen South Africa, for investing in Eastern Cape entrepreneurs. This opportunity has changed not just my business, but my life. And I’m not the only one. Your support is empowering people across our province – creating employment, growing businesses and building a better future. Makwande!