Entrepreneur has been selling at the Bryanston Organic Market since 1994

Bright and bubbly stallholder at the Bryanston Organic and Natural Market Tebatso Maisela says her stall is all about humanity.

uBuntu Crafts has been selling at the market since 1994, providing a colourful range of Zulu baskets and bags, recycled tin toys and more.

“I started this business with my aunt and she showed me the ins and outs of sourcing and collecting products in and out of Africa,” explained Maisela, who sources some products from local crafters and others from Madagascar, Swaziland and further afield.

“We began selling Zulu baskets, which were very popular at the time, and now the most popular products are telephone wire baskets. They are easy to clean and last forever.”

She explained that her products are sourced from a number of people because one item can take up to one week to make.

Having begun with only the stall at the Bryanston Organic Market in 1994, uBuntu Crafts has since expanded to sell at markets at the US Consulate, pop-up markets, the Rosebank Market and Meetings Africa at the Sandton Convention Centre.

Maisela advised aspiring entrepreneurs to choose a business venture they love and are passionate about.

“If you are not passionate, you won’t enjoy it in the long run. If you love what you do, it won’t be business but rather part of your everyday life.”

“Don’t be afraid of failure. Take risks because there you will find a reward.”

Maisela said that if she were not doing markets she would have become an interior decorator. “Every time I display, I ensure that I present items in the most beautiful and innovative way. I like details and making good use of space.”

Details: Email ubuntucrafts@yahoo.com or call 082 852 8712.

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https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/226333/bryanston-organic-and-natural-market-soldiers-on-after-43-years/