Durban — The growth of women-owned businesses and projects in South Africa aims at providing women with employment opportunities in a patriarchal society.
Various women in Durban have taken to starting up businesses/projects ranging from the marketing industry to design to fitness and health.
Jodi-Marie Nel, 23, is a Durban entrepreneur and owner of Mahika Realm and Nightlife Productions.
“Mahika Realm is an empire that has been running for two years (since 2020). We specialise in graphic design, media management and staffing solutions.
“Nightlife Productions is my events company.
“I started Nightlife Productions last year when I hosted my first event at a nightclub for Halloween and since then I have built a community of people that appreciate good music and an unmatched atmosphere.
“On the side I am a model as well as project manager for Bass City Productions,” Nel said.
“I decided to become my own boss after I completed an internship at a corporate company in Joburg and realised I want to build and create my own foundation and career.”
She said she had a company in 2019 – Lilia Attire – that focused on swimwear and nightlife attire, but due to Covid-19, it did not survive.
“I didn’t let that failure discourage me and soon relaunched with Mahika Realm.
“I find I’m very passionate about creating a safe and professional environment for our youth to work and make money while studying and that is what we’ve accomplished over these past two years.
“In the next five years, I plan to branch out further with my events to different provinces and tour throughout our country – exploring and experiencing these moments with new people.
“With regards to Mahika Realm, I have so many plans but my main goal is to maintain the good relationships I have with my clientele as well as build my database of staff.
“I also aim to branch out nationally and help the youth find their place in the working world,” Nel said.
“I feel as a woman – in most cases being an entrepreneur – can be intimidating at first but very liberating when you’re reaching your goals and ticking the boxes of your accomplishments.
“It can be tricky finding your way – especially if you’re young – however, I encourage all young girls to chase after their goals.”
Stellar Consulting is a company co-founded by sisters Sarah Whitaker, 44, and Katey Watkin, 41, – and it started in September this year.
The co-founders have a combined 40 years of experience. Whitaker has experience in design having notably designed and created the glass artwork on the front of Bridge City Mall in KwaMashu, Durban.
Watkin has experience in marketing and was notably included in the KZN International Cricket Council World Cup committee in 2003.
Whitaker said: “I woke in the middle of the night and looked up at the stars and made the connection that if I'd had a baby girl I would’ve called her Stellar ... and just like that my business idea was born.
“Stellar Consulting is a multi-disciplinary agency working with clients worldwide.
“Our specialities include marketing, brand strategy, graphic design, project management, event management and social media management.
“We are here to make big ideas happen.”
Under marketing, the company covers various aspects that include sales strategies, research your brand/ strategies and create solutions, strategic planning, dynamic change and implementation as well brand management and promotion strategies.
Under graphic design, they focus on CVs/portfolios, business cards. adverts/signs and logo design.
“It is an incredibly empowering feeling knowing that I am fully in control of my time, my energy, my future.
“I have three nieces who are my world and I want to be a role model for them. “I want them to know that anything is possible and that there isn’t anything they cannot do,” added Whitaker.
Stellar Consulting works with various partners that include East Coast Radio, Paragon Van and Truck Rental and Urban MGT.
Daily News