Litha Park’s handy hardware store gets EPWP training boost
26 July 2024
The Hardware Co. in Khayelitsha has managed to overcome business challenges and grow, thanks to the leadership training and guidance received through the City’s Urban Waste Management (UWM) EPWP Entrepreneurship Trainee Programme.
Since the owner of The Hardware Co., Yanga Njozela, began in the programme the business has grown immensely, he has seen a change in his leadership style, and has employed four staff, one permanent and three part-time.
The business all hardware supplies including building material, brick, cement, sand, stone and various tools for DIY projects.
Njozela shares that The Hardware Co. faced many challenges, but the programme reminded him to go back to the basics, build relationships with his customers and make the business indispensable in the community by adding services such as plumbing, electrical and handyman work.
'The EPWP Entrepreneurship Trainee Programme has helped us in our business with leadership training, personal leadership and business leadership with UWC,' said Njozela.
Alderman Grant Twigg, the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, was pleased with the difference a small business has made in the community after visiting Njozela at The Hardware Co.
'Seeing this small business realise its growth potential through this programme is one of the major benefits. The training and support provided assists our entrepreneurs on both a personal and professional level, and facilitates economic growth in our communities,' said Alderman Twigg.
About the Programme
The EPWP Entrepreneurship Trainee Programme, now in its third year, equips entrepreneurs with essential skills to meet their goals through comprehensive training and development modules provided by the University of the Western Cape. These modules cover financial management, marketing, leadership and more, coupled with personalised coaching and mentorship.
The impact of the programme over the past two years has been profound, fostering job creation and revenue growth among participating enterprises.
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
