POLOKWANE – BEING able to work with steel everyday is a dream come true for Solly Malete (27) from Greenside Ext 44 in Polokwane.
Malete is self-employed and produces quality steel sliding gates, burglar bars and mobile shacks.
Malete, a father of one, says he struggled for a long time to find a decent job until he eventually decided to start his own business.
He said he started his business early last year as he had to earn money to provide for his family.
“When I started the business it sometimes felt like my efforts were useless. I couldn’t always produce my products due to a lack of materials but I didn’t give up and kept on. Now I make at least R5 000 every month and I can buy more material to grow my business. I can design good quality products for local people, and I want to supply big companies across the country with my products in future.
“Working in such a business is sometimes a gamble because some customers fail to pay what they owe, and this can kill a business,” he said.
Malete said he was looking forward to growing his business and employing local people. He said this would be his way of fighting poverty and crime i his community.
He advised the youth not to depend on government or expect anyone to help them. “We should create our own businesses as youth and avoid being all over the streets taking drugs and alcohol as this can prevent us from reaching our goals,” he said
