From turntables to putting food on tables
Despite challenges of farming, Mtshali and sister have spotted a business opportunity
A university dropout has achieved his dreams despite a tough financial background.
Muziwethu Mtshali, 33, said he left Wits University in 2007 after he had enrolled for a BA in politics and international relations.
“In 2003, I enrolled for a BCom at [the former] Rau University. The next year I left for Wits because I did not enjoy the BCom,” he said.
Mtshali now owns a horticulture farm in Magaliesburg.
“My sister and I bought a farm this year. We have not started farming as yet, but we want to farm fruit and vegetables,” he said.
“Farming made sense to us as the population keeps on growing and because of that, people need to eat. Demand for food has risen, so farming is a viable business despite the challenges one faces as a young black entrepreneur trying to break into farming.”
The farm will use waterconservation technology.
He said accessible funding was a challenge, having used his personal income to fund the farm. “I used my pension fund monies to purchase the farm and have to pay consistently for its running costs.”
Mtshali is also a partner at Lean Business and an entertainer. He describes himself as an alternative sound DJ. He is known to his music fans as Tha Muzik.
“I run three events monthly where I showcase different sounds. In one of the gigs we have a band where we showcase live hop-hop jazz. I also DJ at Kaya FM on Saturdays from 3-4pm.
“Lean Business provides an online entrepreneurship platform for starting entrepreneurs. I am responsible for its marketing and development. It is still a new baby.”
At the farm, Mtshali compiles business plans and heads business development.
Although not married he strongly believes in having a grounded family. “I have a four-month-old son with my long-term girlfriend. Having them helps me to work towards a goal because as entrepreneurs we are either chasing new opportunities or stuck in a rut of ideas.”
Mtshali also worked at SA Breweries for four years.
‘‘ Demand for food has risen, so farming is a viable business