Mrs Maggie Gabakgore- Street Cobbler-Molepolole

Mrs Maggie Gabakgore has always had an entrepreneurial spirit. Her love for business dates as far back as her school days in 1986 when she was selling cosmetics, second-hand clothes, shoes and bags to anybody that would buy.

After many years of wanting to expand her business Maggie decided to approach CEDA in July 2016. Through Mabogo-Dinku she has been able to buy and sell more stock and make a profit. 

Tell us where it all started and guide us through your career path?

In my school days in the 1980’s I sold cosmetics to my fellow class mates. After I saw how successful I was in selling beauty products I expanded into selling clothes. I saw a market in this as people constantly made orders with me and I could never manage to keep stock. I attribute that to the fact that I sold good quality clothing. In the year 2000 I decided to sell second-hand clothing. In 2009 I went on to sell shoes and hand bags and decided to stick to this as it was a lucrative business.

What motivated you to start your own business?

I have always had the desire to be an entrepreneur and be my own boss. Starting my own business gave me personal satisfaction as I was doing something I enjoyed for myself. The money is also good. Although it is not consistent there are times that my business really booms and take home some really good money.

How long have you been considering starting your business?

The consideration to start a business comes from many years ago, even when I was at primary school in the 1960’s I wanted to start a business. The desire to run a business lies in deep with me and it gives me great pleasure to see how much I have accomplished through my business.

How did you come to learn about CEDA’s Mabogo-Dinku product?

I heard of Mabogo-Dinku through word of mouth. There was a lot talk about the product and people had really shown interest in the product that helps small business people such as myself. A friend of mine told me of this opportunity and how it was aimed at funding micro-entrepreneurs. At first I was not sure if I would qualify but I made the effort of going to CEDA to enquire. Upon my arrival I was told of the terms and conditions of how the product worked. This prompted me to go find people I could group up and fill out all the necessary application forms.

What was Mabogo-Dinku used for?

I applied for Mabogo-Dinku to expand my business. I needed the money to buy more shoes and bags for my customers.

How was the process in applying for the Mabogo-Dinku loan?

I approached CEDA in July 2016 and my loan was only approved in November of the same year. The application process is not a lengthy one, the only challenge that came with Mabogo-Dinku was the waiting period and this was largely due to the fact that the product was new and had issues starting up. Other than that the people were very helpful and guided us throughout the application process.

Was there any training required in order to access Mabogo-Dinku?

The officers took us for training in record-keeping and business skills. These courses were mandatory for us to access the loan. It took us a couple of weeks but we saw that it was necessary and found it to be very helpful in ensuring we repay this loan.

What challenges does your business face?

The business of being a street vendor is difficult as it is not consistent. Customers do not come every day meaning that there will be some days I do not get any business at all and some days I get a lot. Some days I can make a very good sale and some days go back home with absolutely nothing. People often ask if they can take out products on credit and I unfortunately have to decline because I do not have the time or resources to chase them down to make payments.

Do you consider yourself a market leader?

I do consider myself a market leader as I am the only person in Molepolole that sells shoes as a street vendor. The range of shoes along with their quality also sets me apart from my competition.

I also price better than my competitors meaning that customers are more inclined to buy from me.

How do you set yourself apart and keep your clients?

I keep my customers happy by bringing them a variety of shoes at very affordable prices. I also keep my regular customers well informed of new stock as and when it comes.

I also call them regularly to check on them. I even go as far as giving them presents at the end of the year.

How many employees do you have?

I run this business alone as I cannot afford to hire anyone else.

What are your business aspirations?

I would like to grow my business and operate from a shop one day. I would also like to expand to other villages and provide the same services and products.

What advice would you give up and coming business people?

The key to a successful business is patience. More businesspeople need to be patient and not assume that business success is found overnight. Business takes time, patience, commitment and financial sacrifice. Overall business owners need to understand that institutions like CEDA help Batswana as opposed to the opinion that it only helps the certain few. CEDA is available to finance anybody’s’ dreams and desires.