Rising unemployment: Tsholofelo has a plan
The latest unemployment stats have left a Mohlakeng businesswoman worried – she has urged entrepreneurs to stand up for others, particularly young people who can't make ends meet.
Mohlakeng businesswoman and founder of Rapela Mosadi Enterprise pleaded with local businesses to give back to communities and help fight the rising unemployment.
Tsholofelo Thekiso, 31, who established her T-shirt label has told the Herald that the latest stats released about the rise of unemployment in South Africa have left her worried, therefore she urged entrepreneurs to stand up for others, particularly young people who can’t make ends meet.
The avid clothing designer has since started a skills development programme where she will help people to gain skills to establish their own enterprises to earn a living.
Her ultimate goal is to grow her centre by employing the skills of her protégés who will in turn do the same for others.
“I am doing this because I am in the best position to help fight poverty and improve the state of things; also I don’t believe that running a business should only be about making a profit; I believe that as the owner, you’re responsible for empowering those around you,” Tsholofole said.
Tsholofelo said she holds charity drives in the community on a regular basis, where she donates sanitary pads and holds prayer sessions to lift the spirits of the women in the community. She said this helps to address one of the problems seen in communities, which is robbing women of their dignity.
“We cannot live in a situation where people are so poor that they cannot even afford sanitary products; that’s such a huge necessity for women,” Tsholofelo said.
She is not only donating items to the community but wishes to bring hope through her prayer sessions.
“To everyone out there who is trying, I am not saying it’s going to be an easy road, but I want you to know that Rapela Mosadi will be there for you; to empower you and steer you on a path of your dreams,” Tsholofelo added.
