Matimba nominated for Best Founder in Africa
A series of life tragedies that Matimba Makaringe had to overcome in her twenties, proved to be only a blessing in disguise.
The 33-year-old entrepreneur from Nkowankowa outside Tzaneen has climbed the ladder of success, literally starting from the bottom.
She has been nominated for the Founder of the Year Awards Africa (FOYA) representing South Africa in the Manufacturing Founder of the Year category.
These awards recognise entrepreneurs who are contributing to the African economy in countries that include Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia among others.
She established Courageous Cosmetics, a company which produces perfumes from her mother’s garage after she found herself broke and penniless.
The company also affords women an opportunity to start their own businesses by buying perfume in bulk and selling it to the public and make a living out of it.
In 2016, Matimba sustained second degree burns after a hot water bottle spilled on her thighs. She could not walk for a few months.
After the incident she had a miscarriage and her boyfriend at the time left her with debt for loans she had incurred in aid to assist his business.
All these events happened at a time when she had just resigned from the a corporate sector job for which she was head hunted.
Also read: YOUTH MONTH: Matimba continues to flourish in business
She was left to deal with the debt alone and as a result she suffered from depression.
However, against all odds, Matimba was determine to claim her life back and she started her perfume and honey business.
Last year she officially opened a store selling her products and where she does training.
She also has time for a full-time job as Vision FM station manager.
She has now been blessed with a loving Partner and a sonPeople can vote for her through the link www.foya.thefounder.africa/vote/DTVLHZFN or go to the FOYA website, where you can search for her under the South African section.
The Herald will give an update on how she performed at the awards.
