Two Douglas entrepreneurs, Masego Kayland and Valerie Abrahams, are achieving growth in their small businesses thanks to a local business empowerment programme. The initiative has supported them with essential tools and capital equipment, helping them expand their operations and strengthen their role in the local economy.
Kayland, owner of Sis D, and Abrahams, owner of Vaal Pizza, began their journey with the all-women-in-business initiative in 2023, progressing through the business assessment and diagnostic phase, which rendered their businesses eligible for grant funding.
Kayland’s construction company received a much-needed concrete mixer, compactor, wheelbarrows, and other construction equipment. Similarly, Abrahams’s catering business, Vaal Pizza, received a mobile food trailer, pizza oven, deep freezer, and other essentials, providing the support she needs to grow her business.
“Because of this local business support initiative, I am the first black woman to own a pizza outlet in Douglas,” said Abrahams.
Funded by Boikanyo Solar, the all-women-in-business initiative aims to empower 50 aspirant women entrepreneurs by providing business compliance start-up kits that include Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) company registrations, tax clearance certificates and pins, central supplier database (CSD) registrations, BBBEE Certificates, business bank accounts, and start-up business plans.
“Our grant funding is aimed at supporting SMMEs that are already operational, working towards profitability, and maintaining business compliance. These income-generating assets will help them expand their capacity, reach more clients, and grow their revenue,” said Lesego Mosiane, social performance practitioner for Boikanyo Solar.
Through this initiative, Boikanyo Solar continues to contribute towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), specifically decent work and economic growth, and reduced inequalities by enabling women to thrive.
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