Economic empowerment through agriculture

Johannesburg, 25 April: Doris Mthethwa registered Nhlabosini Corporation in 2005 with six members on board and they went on to employ 23 women. The corporation is flourishing as she is supplying big stores such as Spar in Richard’s Bay, Boxer Stores, and Fruit and Veg in Empangeni to name but a few with fresh fruits, vegetables, butternuts, pumpkins and spinach.

Mthethwa lives by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideal that, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” Mthetwa holds many accolades were she was voted Eskom/Sowetan woman of the year in 1999 held at Kwazulu Natal Province. She is also the award winner of woman of the year (ngemisebensi yezandla) for self-employment.

She has travelled to Japan to learn how other women are succeeding in economic empowerment. “I want to help other woman around my turf and improve the communities around the province and the country, I am proud of what I have achieved and am proud to announce that Nhlabosini Corporation has more than R85 000 in the account. We are making a difference in women’s lives.”

The judges were jubilant about her success and they encouraged her to continue inspiring other woman. Angeline Phetlhe, one of the judges, said, “Your experience, confidence and the courage you have made you to be where you are now. Let the journey continue because you’re a guru now.”