Tendani Mudau, a resident of Valdezia, embarked on a remarkable journey three years ago when she started her own shoe-repairing business in the village. Her goal was to become self-sustaining and provide for her family without relying on others or government grants.
Motivated by the challenges of living in a village with limited resources and job opportunities, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, Tendani was determined to learn the art of repairing shoes from her husband, who was an expert in the trade.
Driven by her determination and passion, Tendani has not only supported her family but also became an inspiration to the community, especially as a female shoemaker in a field dominated by men. She received positive feedback and overwhelming support from the residents of her village, which further encouraged her.
Although she faced challenges with clients who refused to pay for her services, Tendani persevered and gradually built a large client base. She recognised the importance of not relying solely on SASSA grants and took it upon herself to provide for her family amidst the rising cost of living.
Currently, Tendani is considering relocating her stall to a busier location, such as a mall. She is also exploring the idea of designing clothes, aiming to contribute to job creation. Recognising the high unemployment rate in her area, Tendani hopes to inspire other unemployed women to utilise their available resources and overcome the economic challenges in South Africa.