Johannesburg - Lumko Mphande, 27, from Tembisa near Midrand, has been named top entrepreneur by Vusi Thembekwayo and Three Ships Whisky. His prize includes an all-expenses-paid mentorship with Thembekwayo as well as a R100 000 capital injection to boost his business.
Lumka, a call centre supervisor who started Bumka Scooter Rentals on the side, rents out four 125 CC motorbikes to businesses such as Debonairs and sandwich shops within a 12km radius of Tembisa.
“I bought my first motorbike to save on travelling costs. With many businesses utilising motorbikes for deliveries I saw a gap in the market to rent out a few scooters and motorbikes to service the area of Tembisa.
"My ultimate dream is to offer my hometown, KwaNdebele in Mpumalanga, such a service as the township doesn’t enjoy the same benefits as most of those in Gauteng. I’d like to start something there too that would improve life in the area.
“I have had to make many sacrifices to make it this far. I rent a very small room in my effort to save as much money as I can to plough back into my business. I paid cash for all my motorbikes by maintaining a very simple lifestyle. Many entrepreneurs in South Africa are too afraid to take calculated risks. I believe that with the right attitude, sacrifice and belief in yourself, you can reach the highest you are destined for.”
Lumka aims to use the R100 000 in realising his goal of owning 200 motorbikes, delivering online orders and small packages nationwide. He is looking forward to spending time with Vusi and benefitting from his enormous wisdom and experience.
Lumka joined four finalists on 26 February at the James Sedgwick Distillery where they were put to the test in presenting their business plans to Vusi and Three Ships master distiller, Andy Watts. Competitors in the nationwide contest could register their business ideas on the Three Ships website to stand a chance to be considered for the winning prize.
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