Boniswa Mfundisi: A Taking Care of Business Success Story
My name is Boniswa Mfundisi. I am 58 years old and I have 5 kids. Currently I have 3 people that depend on me.
Before I started at Taking Care of Business (TCB), I was not business minded, although I was doing alterations. And because I underestimated myself I didn’t want to sew the full garment even though I knew I could do it. I did not have that confidence and strength to sew the full garment. I was afraid to do it wrong, and of not having enough equipment. I also had a small vision in sewing although I know I am a creative woman. I had so much more to give.
From dependent chicken to self-sufficient eagle
My life changed totally when I started at the TCB Remake programme. At first, it was not easy because they used to tell us we must not be like a chicken we must be like eagles. They repeat that every day, until I understood and learnt what it means not to be a chicken. I stopped complaining and grumbling and looking down like a chicken does. I gained strength on how to became a successful businesswoman. I started looking up and being confident in my ability like an eagle.
At Remake, they teach us how to remake garments and plan better. I started planning for my business and for my everyday life too.
Continuing to soar
I have learnt how to overcome my fear. I have discipline now too, for example, I don’t overspend my money. I know my strengths and weaknesses and use it to my advantage.
There is so much I am grateful to TCB for. My mind is wide open now and I am confident. I don’t fear anymore, regardless of my age. Now I am a single mother that can put food on the table for my children.
Taking Care of Business (TCB) is a nonprofit social enterprise. We are empowering unemployed South Africans and their families to escape the cycle of poverty through small business opportunities, mostly within the circular economy.