Flat cakes and rock-hard biscuits marked Ronelle Groep’s baking debut at age nine, during a deeply emotional time in her life, a far cry from the towering custom creations now defining Nella’s Kitchen in East London’s Buffalo Flats. For…
In the heart of East London, one woman is redefining what it means to shop with style and conscience. At The Dressing Room Pre-Loved Clothing, fashion meets sustainability, and every garment has a story to tell. From lively evening…
Cooking keeps Matthew Snooke, 23, on a happier path. The Blue Ribbon Catering and Hospitality-trained Gonubie chef struggles with Tourette’s syndrome, a neurological disorder marked by involuntary movements and vocal tics. He is so aware…
Young, fresh creatives have set up a media house which is rocking East London’s social and cultural scene. West District Media founders Leeroy Mbire, 21, and Shelah Qabaka ,19, have a vibrant, innovative approach to photography. From…
Hayley Jonker, a 52-year-old Dorchester Heights resident, has always had a soft spot for animals and a passion for helping others. For more than 20 years, she has been the go-to person for friends and family who require dependable care…
Originally from East London and now based in Gqeberha, 28-year-old artist Tando Cekiso has turned a childhood passion into a thriving business. What began with a six-year-old boy sketching after school has grown into Black Inc, a name now…
What began as a heartfelt gift from a mother to her daughter has grown into one of East London’s most inspiring spaces for creativity, strength, and personal transformation. Fella’s Dance and Fitness Academy, founded by Twané Caitlin…
For more than three decades, East London’s Kimberly Whittle has been creating comfort for pets and peace of mind for their owners. What began as a children’s clothing business evolved into Barking Dog Beds, a thriving venture offering…
In just one-month, East London’s Lakin Thompson has turned a simple idea into a fast-growing, family-powered business that’s already winning the hearts (and appetites) of locals. With homemade cookies, savoury platters, snacks, and frozen…
For parents seeking a trustworthy babysitter over the weekend, Rhonwyn Leendertz offers more than just supervision, she provides care, creativity, and a deep love for children. A qualified educator currently teaching grade 2, Leendertz…
Tiffany van As, the founder of Styled by Tiff, is an East London hairstylist who’s redefining convenience with evening and weekend appointments. She works from 8am to 5pm as a sales assistant at Beauty Academy, an independent business in…
Oriya Computers founder Jacques van Wyk is a Berea-based technician whose expertise in computer repairs, upgrades and refurbished laptops is invaluable. From malware removal to desktop repairs, Jacques shares his passion, challenges, and…
Ursula Carter, founder of Butterfly Creations, is a Cambridge-based creative whose custom-made pet wear and personalised character outfits have warmed the hearts of both furry and human customers. From bespoke dog jerseys to character…
At just 32 years old, Siyabonga Dingiswayo from Mdantsane has built a growing baking business from his home kitchen. His passion, perseverance, and community support have helped shape Cake Me Up Somdingi into a name people trust and love.…
This week we chat with Colleen Craik about the adorable clothes and accessories she makes for Ken dolls. What kind of products do you make for dolls? I make clothes and accessories for Ken dolls. When and how did you come up with the idea…
What kind of food do you sell? We specialise in delicious kota and chicken wraps. How and when did you decide to start your food business? Due to being unemployed and having all the time to myself, I asked myself — why not start a food…
This week we chat to Yolanda Taku who runs her wig business Crown Queens, where she sells good quality, affordable wigs. What services do you offer? Our services include custom makeup looks for weddings, special occasions, soft glam and…
This week, we catch up with Zizikazi Rweqana to learn more about her cleaning business, Ezamazizi Cleaning Services, which she runs with her cousin, Kholo. What types of cleaning services do you offer? Our services include deep cleaning,…
This week we chat to Colette Ragaval about her catering business, Colette’s Delicacies, which she uses to explore various cooking and baking techniques while meeting the needs of all her customers. What type of catering services do you…
This week, we chat to two local businesses that cater for back-to-school needs. Sonja Botha, who runs her own hair salon, Hair by Sons, offers great back-to-school deals. What products/services do you offer? I do blow-drying, highlights,…
