Father of four, Lehubedu “Lemo” Mohlabe, began selling coffee to motorists through his portable coffee stop along the R55 in Centurion this year. Previously unemployed, the entrepreneur came up with a creative way to make money.
“After 3 years of looking for a job with no luck I got frustrated, decided to open business and hire myself. I sell coffee at busy traffic intersection directly to motorists,” Mohlabe says on his LinkedIn page.
Talking to IOL, Mohlabe says his wife helped him to find some inspiration.
“I used to go out of my way for coffee, and still be late for work. I then came up with the idea of selling coffee and biscuits along the streets for the convenience of those heading to work in the morning,” he explained.
“My wife and I worked on the idea, and here we are today.”
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Selling coffee at the traffic lights is now Mohlabe’s daily occupation after starting in August this year.
“It is full time; I started on August 8, and I have been there every weekday from 6am with hot water and fresh biscuits. It is a fulfilling assignment,” he said.
Mohlabe is thankful for the support pouring in from around the country after his business made the rounds on social media.
“I get encouragement from people of all backgrounds … the smiles, tips and business advice.”
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He explained that a challenge of the setup is equipment, but specified that he is a resourceful man, and is capable of tackling problems as they come up.
“It used to be challenging at first; it took me an hour to get used to it. I now have a mental map of where everything is, but I do sometimes burn myself with the water.”
Mohlabe encourages people to find hope through unemployment, and wants to help create employment opportunities for others in the future.
“Nothing will change unless you stand up and do something. Just do something; go out and do something.”
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Picture: IOL
