For Douglas resident and salon owner Doreen Steenkamp, hairdressing has always been more than just a way to earn a living – it is a skill she has used to serve her community. With support from the All Women-in-Business Empowerment Initiative, she is now better equipped to grow her business.
“Before receiving this support, I was only offering basic services such as washes and blowouts,” said Steenkamp.
“Now, I can offer wig installations, restorations, maintenance, and even manicures and pedicures.”
Her salon, Salon Doreen, has been upgraded with new tools and equipment including a hair cleansing basin, industrial dryers, manicure tables, salon chairs and signage. This support has enhanced both her workspace and the range of services she can offer.
Funded by Boikanyo Solar, the programme is designed to empower women aged from 18 to 59 years by providing beneficiaries with start-up kits that include company registrations, broad-based black economic empowerment (BBBEE) certificates, tax clearance certificates and pins, Central Supplier Database (CSD) registrations, new business bank accounts, and start-up business plans. This foundational support helps set participants up for long-term success.
As a result of completing the Business Start-Up Compliance Kit phase, along with a detailed business diagnostic and assessment process, Steenkamp qualified for grant funding.
“Doreen has shown great commitment throughout the programme, and these assets will allow her to increase revenue and provide a better experience for her clients,” said Lesego Mosiane, social performance practitioner for Boikanyo Solar.
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