Neliswa Poni: A Taking Care of Business Success Story | Remake Programme
My name is Neliswa Poni, and I am married. I don’t have children. Before joining TCB, I was unemployed. I lost my job in 2020, and things became very difficult. My husband’s salary wasn’t enough to support us, and I started to feel depressed. I tried selling wigs, but it didn’t work out. I decided to enrol in a short sewing course, which is how I started sewing, but I didn’t know how to turn it into a business.
Discovering the TCB Remake Programme
One day, I saw a post on Facebook about the TCB Remake Programme, and it really caught my interest. I saw it as a chance to improve my skills and build my confidence, so I applied.
I started the programme in July 2023 and graduated in July 2024.
Lessons and transformations
The programme has taught me so much. I feel like I’ve been given a second chance in life. We had business mentors who taught us everything about running a business. Now, I know how to keep records and budget for both my business and household. I’m especially grateful to Dammon, my business mentor, for her patience and understanding.
TCB has the best coaches, and the experience has been life-changing. I’ve learned how to handle challenges, love myself, and accept the things I cannot change. I’ve also learned to forgive, and now I have peace. I apply what the coaches taught us in everything I do, and it’s been incredibly helpful. I’d like to thank Coach Sharon and Coach Tracy B for changing my life.
7STITCHES (Pty) Ltd: A new beginning
I now have a registered business called 7STITCHES (Pty) Ltd. I chose this name because I developed self-awareness, and the program brought positive change to my life. It represents “7 stitches of perfection,” and the number seven in biblical numerology symbolizes completion or perfection. My work feels like a hobby, and I feel complete.
Currently, I work from home. I can’t afford to rent a bigger space yet, and I work alone, but I’m hoping that by this time next year, I’ll have two or three employees.
Growing my business
I specialise in traditional wear, bespoke garments, and ready-to-wear items. I sell my products to people attending special events like weddings and matric balls, as well as everyday wear for everyone, including children.
My dream is to have all the equipment I need to grow my business, such as machinery, transportation, and a bigger workspace. I also hope to create job opportunities and launch my business online to make it accessible to everyone.
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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.
