GRADUATE BUILDS BUSINESS WHILE PURSUING PASSION FOR MATHEMATICS

Sivuyise Ntabeni managed employees, suppliers and customers while simultaneously pursuing a Bachelor of Education in teaching Mathematics, Science and Technology.

During his first year, Ntabeni (26), launched Prof’s Bar Foods in Mqanduli, a budding restaurant that was inspired by a need to provide affordable food and creating opportunities for local suppliers and students.

Balancing lectures, assignments and examinations with the demands of running a business gave Ntabeni practical experience that extended beyond the classroom, and saw him graduate with a B.Ed in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET).

“The university, especially the support from Ms Blaai’s office [SGLD] and its entrepreneurship programmes, gave me knowledge and exposure, while the business gave me practical experience,” he said.

Prof’s Bar Foods has since grown from an idea into an established business operating from its own building, with employees, customers and ambitions for expansion.

Ntabeni also ventured into student accommodation, drawing inspiration from his own experiences as a student. He said this taught him that students were not only consumers, but could also identify challenges around them and develop solutions.

His entrepreneurial journey included participating in competitions such as EDHE and Enactus, where he represented the university and gained experience in presenting business ideas, defending business models and engaging with different audiences.

Raised by a single, unemployed mother, Ntabeni said her sacrifices remained central to his journey. One of his proudest achievements was recently buying her a new vehicle, years after she had supported the beginnings of his business by lending him her bakkie.

“For me, the vehicle represents gratitude. It is my way of appreciating her sacrifices and showing that her support helped make my journey possible,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ntabeni plans to continue growing his businesses while developing his career in Mathematics Education. His long-term ambition is to establish a school specialising in Mathematics and Science, providing additional support to learners while creating opportunities for others.

By Yanga Ziwele