Msogwaba barber creates opportunities for growth
Xolisumoya Mdlalose started his barber as a hobby and saw an opportunity to turn it into a profession.
What started as a hobby when he was a little boy soon turned into a business.
Xolisumoya Mdlalose of Intelligence Barber and Beauty Salon, situated in the dusty streets of Msogwaba, has been cutting hair in the backyard of his home for years until he decided to turn this hobby into a well-oiled business.
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Mdlalose said he has always enjoyed cutting hair and has cut his friends’ hair after school or on the weekends, which is how he realised he could make a living out of it.
He opened his barbershop in 2020 after the Covid-19 restrictions were eased.
“I decided to open a small business since I had finished my matric and had nothing to do. The people in my community knew I was good at cutting hair, so they supported me on my journey until now,” he said.
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With this support, Mdlalose’s business grew, and he decided to go big, catering for women’s hairstyles as well.
“The growth also meant I had to create employment opportunities for young people in the community.
“I now work with four young people, and they are able to put bread on the table for their families as well. My growth means growth to everyone in my area as it opens opportunities for them. We are proud that we are a 100% youth-owned barbershop, contributing to the rural economy.”
“The support from the locals just melts my heart, and I will always be grateful to them.”
He said the ongoing load-shedding has been straining, since he does not have a generator. He said they end up losing clients who resort to town barbershops that are more established and have backup generators.
Mdlalose’s barbershop is situated next to the Powerhouse. Contact him on Facebook at Erusmas Mdlalose and on 060 619 3163.
