Durban — Winners of the Durban Business Fair (DBF) Excellence Awards say they are pleased with their performances and that their triumphs will bring positive changes to their businesses.
The awards were hosted by the eThekwini Municipality at the Durban Exhibition Centre on Friday. They gave recognition to outstanding contributions by small, medium and micro enterprises in eThekwini.
Winners of the Lion’s Den Business Plan Competition and the Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) Recognition Awards were also awarded.
The eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development and Planning Committee chairperson, Thembo Ntuli, relayed his congratulations to those who emerged triumphant.
He said each would receive a share of the municipality’s investment in the winners, which totals R500 000 and includes essential equipment and enterprise development support to the value of their cheque.
Martin John Steenkamp, the creative director of Martin John Bespoke, who clinched the Fashion Innovation Award, said he felt very excited about winning.
“It is not just because of the fact that I have won but it is also an honour for me to be recognised in the space of innovation and creativity. Because as a brand and as a business, the brand Bespoke is built and created on the foundation and principle of forward-thinking and innovation.
“To be recognised by people who have been in the industry and who have paved the way for people like myself to exist in this industry is an even bigger honour,” he said.
Steenkamp sent a message to other designers who wished to one day see themselves in a similar position.
“It is important for you to know you, your aesthetic and the DNA you want to put on the table because there are a lot of creatives and designers. But what do you bring to the table? That is the biggest, most important conversation that you need to have with yourself because there is plenty of other talent out there,” he said.
Meanwhile, Zandile Myeza, who clinched Rising Stars 2nd prize and took home R10 000, said she was pleased with the outcome.
“I am very happy. Although I did have a feeling that I might win, I did indeed through the help of God,” she said.
Myeza said she developed a love of fashion design from a young age.
She did encounter some challenges on her journey, she said.
“There is plenty of stress and you have to focus and pay attention to everything you do and what is being taught. Also, always be able and ready to create something.
“Now I will finally be able to buy additional machinery for my business,” she said.
Sibusiso Dambalaza, owner of June D Cakes based in uMlazi township, won the Rural/Township-Based business prize and took home a R50 000 cheque, said he was lost for words.
“I am grateful to God. I am thankful to Him and for all those who lent a hand for us to be where we are. This is not only my win and I am grateful to everyone who has assisted me.
“The money will definitely help a lot towards the business,” he said.
Dambalaza said that he decided to establish the business of baking after facing difficulties brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.
He said they hoped to use the funds towards expanding the business.
“The money will definitely help a lot towards the business. I am looking towards getting more machinery and opening additional branches,” he said.
Bawinile Mkhize, owner of Umthuqasikababa Enterprise, which specialises in sewing school uniforms, won the Excellence Awards Category and walked away with R50 000.
She said she would use all her winnings to buy the material to maximise profits and create more employment opportunities. Her company, which is based in Savannah Park, currently employs 32 people.
Melo Nhleko, owner of Takkie Wash SA, won the women-owned business category. Her business washes sneakers and has branches in Musgrave, uMhlanga and Hillcrest. She has 16 employees.
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