Rising from the Township: Inspiring stories of South African Entrepreneurs

by Dr Steven Zwane, Yamkela Khoza Tywakadi

Straight from the heart of South Africa’s townships and rural areas, Rising from the Township is an essential read for anyone seeking inspiration and practical strategies to build a thriving business. This first volume in an ongoing series offers a deep dive into the journeys of South Africa’s most inspiring leaders, showing how they turned challenges into opportunities, accessed new markets, secured funding, and built powerful partnerships.


Meet 10 trailblazers reshaping their industries, Themba Makamo, founder of Vaya Footwear Sheldon Tatchell, founder of Legends Barbershop Ntuthuko Shezi, founder of Livestock Wealth Nozipho Tshabalala, founder of The Conversation Strategists Candice Thurston, founder of Candi & Co.
Each story is a powerful testament to resilience, creativity, and the unstoppable spirit that thrives in South Africa’s townships and rural areas.


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Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2024

Reviews

[Monene Moila · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Rising from the Township” is an inspirational and authentic read that I truly loved. The stories of men and women who grew up in the township, many of whom carved out successful careers in corporate are both humbling and uplifting. What struck me most is how they remained relentless and resolute about not just “making it out,” but intentionally solving for the realities of where they came from. They created meaningful products and services that make their people—customers, neighbors, and communities feel seen, heard, and valued. It’s a reminder of the very essence of purpose-driven work: to know your people and to do right by them always.

One of my favorite quotes comes from Themba Makamo, creator of Vaya Sneakers, who reflects on his childhood in Katlehong:

“But the streets of Katlehong had their own rules. The dust was everywhere and within minutes, my All white All Stars were matching towards brown. That is when something dawned on me. These shoes were not made for us. They were designed for those living in the suburbs where dirt and dust were not a constant concern. That moment planted a seed in me. I began reflecting on all the products we buy and use that are not designed with our realities in mind. They overlook our lifestyle, our environment, our daily hustle. Whenever I saw something, I would wonder…‘did they consider people like me when they made this?’”

That level of reflection is what makes this book so powerful. It isn’t just for entrepreneurs but it inspires anyone to rethink how we design, create, and serve. It challenges us to go beyond the surface, to understand our people’s lived realities, and to build with them in mind. Authentic, moving, and visionary—this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to lead with heart and impact.