For the local entrepreneur, Thembi Sambo, who strongly advocates an entrepreneurial culture, being an entrepreneur is heeding her calling rather than attaining profits.
Not all heroes wear capes. Some are simply courageous entrepreneurs who are admired for their noble deeds.
The New Market resident and Mrs South Africa 2021 semi-finalist has gone against all odds and today she is a successful businesswoman.
The mother of three is an enthusiastic dream chaser who will not stop at anything to get to the top.
She has recently been nominated for the South African Heroes Awards
According to Thembi, this nomination is for individuals who bring change to the community and the country at large.
“I was in the space of a franchise business and this motivated people to realise that having a business doesn’t necessarily mean always going big. Being a licensed vendor is also entrepreneurship, and that is promoting the selling culture,” she said.
More than anything, she said she believes being an entrepreneur is her calling because she once was a little girl who had nothing but a dream.
“I grew up selling. I was taught by my mother who instilled problem-solving skills and taught me how to use the little that is in front of me. I want to inspire people who are in the same situation that I grew up in, that anything is possible. I’m currently in the entrepreneurial space and I wish to continue to empower, inspire and motivate through our recently established initiative Rebirth of the Mind,” said Thembi.
She told the Alberton RECORD to be nominated is an achievement on its own, and possibly receiving the award will be a victory, especially for an ordinary person like her.
Amanda Matshaka, SA Heroes Awards founder said: “The awards started in 2019 where they recognise community builders, people who uplift communities in different areas. We have seven categories and this year is our fourth annual awards, to be hosted in the Joburg Theatre.”