Lockdowns triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic caused significant economic disruptions and contributed to the loss of livelihoods and income.
Vorna Valley resident Sylvester Madurai went through a depression after losing his job five months into hard lockdown in 2020.
“It was just a few months after I got married that I found out I [and my partner] were expecting a baby and I had lost my job due to the pandemic. I needed to take care of my family again and become the breadwinner for them,” said Madurai.
As a person who loves to work hard, Madurai’s sister hooked him up selling paper towels and he grabbed the opportunity wholeheartedly.
“In spite of the fact that my income was and is still not a stable one, I don’t worry about what others think because I won’t have money or food to eat. Therefore, in order to succeed in business, people should teach themselves to find what people need and go with it without getting involved in illegal activities because they may jeopardise their business,” he said.
The 34-year-old said family was important in business as it enabled one to stay motivated. He was inspired by his sister and also teamed up with other family members so he could not only grow the family business but also inspire them to start their own.
“Back when we were deciding what to call my business, my brother and wife thought we should call it 2play by Sly, but I decided on The Paper Towels Guy because you want your business to represent you.”
His advice is that even if a person doesn’t anticipate losing their job, a side hustle can generate income to reduce debt, save money and invest for the future.
Related Article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/midrand-reporter/309396/local-entrepreneur-hopes-to-fight-poverty/
