Hlatswayo wants to expand booming business which employs over 130 people

Hlatswayo utilises his business to help people much like himself, who couldn’t for whatever reason study further than a matric.

“Gro Direct is an offshoot of direct marketing company Global Direct,” Hlatswayo said.

“We’re licensed to sell The Unlimited products from door-to-door; an opportunity that we’ve extended to young South Africans who have a dream of running their own business one day.

“Our model is anchored by ensuring the leaders replicate themselves, to grow other leaders who in turn grows others.”

The 34-year-old opened offices in Centurion (2011), Benoni (2012), Randburg (2012), Kempton Park (2013) and Pretoria (2016).

“Gro Direct means we’re growing entrepreneurs and millionaires through direct marketing,” he added.

“If only every business person could understand that you only build a big business, by growing other people – we can change the unemployment statistics in this country.”

Hlatswayo said he didn’t gain all the knowledge to become an entrepreneur by himself; he received help from the vice-president at The Unlimited and founder of Global Direct, Sydwell Khoza.

“He gave me an opportunity of a lifetime; and taught me everything he knew about business, by introducing me to The Unlimited Franchise Development Program,” Hlatswayo said.

“That’s when I received further training and when I was groomed into what you see today.”

Hlatswayo, who spent most of his childhood years in Daveyton, said his story is no different to most stories in South Africa – whereby he couldn’t study further due to lack of funds.

However, that didn’t stop him.

“Education is fundamental, but I’ve also learnt through my own journey that to be successful in anything you put your mind to – you must have a system or a plan of some kind,” he said.

“You must also have a vision and working hard at it, will ensure you bear the fruits of your labour.”

Although it seems like the outcome was great, Hlatswayo faced many challenges in the process:

• Getting my team to buy into my vision was a challenge.

• A high staff turnover, because people come in thinking it’s easy – then realise it’s hard work.

• Having to motivate a team that thinks they’re not good enough – a team who never saw themselves as business owners.

• Family negatives were most challenging, because they never saw anyone successful from sales work. Not having that support can be discouraging, even if you know they mean well.

Hlatswayo hopes to eventually expand outside of South Africa, by branching into other markets across Africa and internationally – while leaving a legacy for his children, Khwezi (5) and Zwelibanzi (2) Hlatswayo.

“You’re unique and there’s a specific purpose you’re in this life – so find it, groom it and use it. The world is waiting for you,” he added.

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