FACE 2 FACE
With NOMA MAGADLA, co-owner at R72 Motors
Q
APlease tell us about your work.
I am one of four partners at R72 Motors: the one that runs the day-to-day operations.
Q: How and where did it all start?
A: Wow, where do I begin? It all started in 2007 when I worked as a till packer at Pick n Pay Pepper Grove in Grahamstown and I then moved onto being a cashier in just a few months of being there. Through years of dedication and perseverance I was then promoted to the admin offices as a receptionist while in between I would assist in other departments such as Frontline, Receiving, Deli and Bakery. Having acquired so much experience I was later promoted to a Frontline Manager, where I would deal with customer queries etc. I then got a big break when I moved to Umtata to our then newly opened Pick n Pay store to be an Assistant
Manager. After a few years I returned to Grahamstown (Makhanda). I was very fortunate to have been offered an opportunity to be one of the owners of R72 Motors (Astron) by my then employers Mr M. Shelton and Mr J. Campbell which I grabbed with both hands. On the 10th December 2020 we opened our site and the reception from the Port Alfred community has been amazing! I’m so blessed to be part of this amazing journey ahead.
Q: Best moment?
A: When I see someone smile or happy because of me, that’s the best feeling ever. Making people happy.
Q: Low point (and how you recovered).
A: My health detoriated and I was hospitalised for months and through prayer, friends and family support I pulled through.
Q: Down time: how do you unwind?
A: Taking a walk at the beach. I love watching the waves and enjoying the sea breeze.
Q: A song, mantra or phrase that sums up the way you see the world…
A: Be Kind. Be Humble.
Q: Something South African to celebrate?
A: Our diverse culture and the different languages.
Q: One thing South Africa needs to fix?
A: The way the country is being governed.
Q: Top of your recommendations for visitors to Ndlambe and the Sunshine Coast?
A: Tash’s was one of the first places I visited in Port Alfred and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I still love it. And of course R72 Motors with the high class ablutions, pet area, nice sitting area and the best service you can get.
Q: Top of your own bucket list? A: Travel the world.
Q: Favourite actor?
A: Johnny Depp, Denzel Washington, Tom Cruise list goes on…. Let’s just say all the good looking ones!!! Hahaha…
Q: Favourite movie?
A: War Room, The Equalizer
Q: Favourite artist?
A: I have a lot coz I listen to different genres of music… Michael Bolton, Lady Gaga, Labrinth, Adele, Whitney Houston…
Q: Who is your hero, and why?
A: My DAD Gladman Magadla, he’s a voice of reason when I need it a pillar of strength. He believes in me.