By OBAKENG MAJE
Taung-born shoe mechanic, Tshidiso Motlhabane said he is exultant to see his business turning into the most reputable shoe repair service across the country. Motlhabane who transforms basic pairs of sneakers or shoes into fully-fledged masterpieces with paint said, even though he is based in Pretoria, he continues to receive business across the country.
“I have expanded my operations nationally with a growing portfolio. I would say social media platforms have given our business the necessary exposure and we continue to increase our footprint.
“I started this shoe mechanic business back in 2017. But before giving shoes makeovers, I was only cleaning them. What prompted me to start this business is the love for shoes and fashion. I’ve always wanted to look different from the rest and wear shoes that others cannot find,” he said.
A 28 year-old LLB graduate said he always had that mind-set since he was a kid. Motlhabane said the skill he acquired was self-taught and now he is a master.
“Thanks to the internet because it is where I have learnt the basics. I developed a skill through time and became creative. I graduated with LLB through the University of South Africa (UNISA) back in 2019.
“However, I am not practicing law because I am devoted to my business now. I believe that I have a lot of potential to grow and I am the best at what I do. I have received business from all over the country including orders from our neighbouring countries such Botswana and Swaziland,” said Motlhabane.
He further said he had achieved his niche through discipline, dedication and determination. However, a buoyed Motlhabane added that regardless of an individual’s talent, he encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to go to school.
“Education prevents poverty and can create opportunities. It also brings growth, so it is very imperative to equip yourself. I would like to see myself having shoe mechanic stores across the country and creating more jobs and empowering the youth.
“I would not only be doing my work on shoes and clothes, but also on cars and other materials like watches, etc. Mostly, my target market is the working class, but my pricing is balanced to accommodate people from detrimental backgrounds,” he said.
Motlhabane has painted shoes for many celebrities including actor, SK Khoza, world renowned music producers, DJ Cleo and Prince Kaybee. He also displayed his artistic work for soccer players like Teboho Mokoena and Sfiso Myeni.
“My work is loved across the spectrum and I’ve also painted shoes for music producers such as Chymamusique, Da Capo and the list goes on. My charges are affordable and currently it will only cost a customer R350 per pair.
“However, the pricing will go up on 1 January 2022. Previously, I had a team but things did not go accordingly but most definitely next year I’ll be employing more people. I would like to encourage everyone out there to follow their dream and make sure they succeed.
Anyone who would like to be in contact with Motlhabane can go to their Facebook: Shoe Mechanic.
The Guardian 