0800 007 269 (Toll Free)
Get Compliant from Anywhere, Easy and Fast!
0800 007 269 (Toll Free)

Get Compliant from Anywhere, Easy and Fast!

0800 007 269 (Toll Free)
Get Compliant from Anywhere, Easy and Fast!

#SAStartUpStory

Real South African Start-Up Stories!

View Inspiring Stories from SA Entrepreneur just like you!

Discover the raw highs and lows of building a business and add your own #SAStartUpStory

View the Latest Stories
Share Your Story Here!

Latest SA Startup Stories

From successes to challenges to how it all started - Simply Click on the questions to view inspiring stories from SA Entrepreneurs.

All About Africa Sustainability Consulting bridges the gap between socially and environmentally conscious buyers and authentic African tourism suppliers through a network-driven approach that fosters genuine integration of climate- and community-friendly products, advises on responsible procurement, and rewards true sustainability leaders—proving that people, planet, and profit can flourish together.

One of my biggest challenges was convincing businesses that sustainability is not just a cost but an essential strategy for their future resilience and competitive advantage. I overcame this by demonstrating tangible returns on sustainable investments—showing how responsible resource use, waste reduction, and social impact initiatives create long-term profitability and stronger stakeholder relationships with both their B2B partners and travelers.

The most valuable lesson has been the power of collaboration and community engagement. South Africa’s unique cultural diversity and entrepreneurial spirit mean that when businesses, government, and local communities align around sustainability goals, we see transformation happening faster, with deeper impact.

I’m inspired by how local entrepreneurs, investors, and consumers are finally beginning to truly embrace green innovation and socially responsible models. There’s an expanding network of support—ranging from impact investors to mentorship programs—that is unlocking potential for businesses of all sizes to scale and contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive economy.

Picture of Melissa Foley

Melissa Foley

From All About Africa Sustainability Consulting

To describe it in one sentence, might be a bit challenging but i will try. Business Breakfast Club is more than a networking club, it’s a community of thriving and upcoming entrepreneurs. The platform is a safe space for business owners to step outside of their comfort zones by networking with potential clients and accessing resources. We are a tribe. 

The biggest challenge in growing the brand has been scaling the business as certain elements are based on complimentary and voluntary aspects. Overcoming this challenge has required the brand to create a sustainable membership to grow the business. 

The most valuable lesson has been to carefully assess collaboration opportunities. 

I’m absolutely excited about the future for entrepreneurs.. With AI and social media, business owners have technology at their finger tips to fast track their goals and aspirations. 

Picture of Kennethea Jackson Williams

Kennethea Jackson Williams

From Business Breakfast Club

The South African Ubuntu Foundation is an organisation working to break down barriers between people of different colour, culture, religion & language and get them to truly embrace one another, through carrying out various activities and initiatives, and at the same time contributing to addressing the challenges facing our country and the world at large.

Funding to get going and then grow the organisation. I overcame it through building strong relationships, building credibility, being transparent and working hard which led to people believing in me and supporting our activities and interventions.

To never give up but be genuine so people will believe in you and support you. To read my book CAN DO! making the impossible POSSIBLE!

We are a resilient nation and have overcome many challenges in the past so we will overcome the current ones facing us because there are so many people very committed to make SA work. There is so many positives happening in our country which outweigh all the negatives. The solution is that government, business/corporate, Npo’s and private individuals are working together and will continue to work together to bring about the changes and solutions we need. The Government of Nation Unity is working, despite it’s many challenges. There is no country in the world without its own challenges.

Picture of Kevin Chaplin

Kevin Chaplin

From The South African Ubuntu Foundation

My business, centred around my “With Hope” health supplements, aims to empower individuals to take control of their health and wellbeing by providing high-quality, natural products that restore balance and promote peak health. It’s available at selected stockists and online on our website.
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is accessing funding and markets, particularly as a female entrepreneur in a competitive industry. To overcome this, I’ve focused on building strong relationships with potential partners, leveraging social media to reach my target audience, and continuously adapting my business strategy to stay ahead of the curve.

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. As an entrepreneur in South Africa, I’ve had to navigate complex regulatory environments, economic fluctuations, and changing consumer behaviours. By staying focused on my vision and being willing to pivot when necessary, I’ve been able to build a successful and sustainable business through With Hope.

Despite the challenges, I’m optimistic about the future of business in South Africa. I believe that the country’s entrepreneurial spirit, combined with its diverse market and growing youth population, presents opportunities for innovative businesses like mine to thrive. Additionally, the increasing focus on health and wellness globally aligns perfectly with With Hope’s mission, and I’m excited to see how South African businesses can capitalise on this trend.
Picture of Amy Kleinhans

Amy Kleinhans

From with Hope

We help people find homes, and we build professionals in the real estate industry through accredited training and residential property services.

One of my biggest challenges waa shifting from a salaried mindset to an entrepreneurial one. I had to unlearn the comfort of a guaranteed monthly income and embrace the responsibility of creating consistent value. I overcame it by building discipline, backing myself and learning to thrive in uncertainty – turning mindset into momentum and relying on guidance of mentors.

Collaboration is key. We cannot be successful in this journey without collaboration.

Despite the challenges, I see resilience, innovation and a rising spirit of entrepreneurship everywhere I look. I am especially encouraged by how small businesses are adapting, how women and youth are stepping into leadership and how collaboration is shaping ecosystems. With the right support, policy improvements and a shared vision, I believe South African businesses will not only survive but thrive – creating jobs, uplifting communities and driving real, lasting change.

Picture of Carmen Gamieldien

Carmen Gamieldien

From Meraki Property Solutions

We provide financial education for women in South Africa.
Getting people to speak about money and overcoming their fears.
Don’t ask for less problems but embrace every challenge.
How much we can help especially women to get I independent through financial education.
Picture of Anna Reyneke

Anna Reyneke

From Money Magnet

Empowering individuals and organizations with compassionate guidance grounded in practical mind and body frameworks to manage stress, cultivate resilience, and live with greater purpose.
My biggest challenge as an entrepreneur has been managing cash flow — a constant reality in our economy. I’ve learned to meet it by planning ahead, reducing debt, trimming unnecessary costs, staying creative, and building multiple income streams.
My biggest lesson as an entrepreneur in South Africa has been to respect the incredible diversity of our people. It’s taught me the art of code-switching — staying deeply present to who I’m engaging with, listening for what they truly need, and adapting my communication in a way that makes sense for them, while still remaining authentic to myself.
What makes me feel positive about the future of South Africa is the spirit of collaboration with like-hearted people — coming together to plant and nurture seeds of hope. Each small act of care, courage, and creativity adds to a collective movement that reminds me of our resilience and our capacity to grow something better, together.
Picture of Deidré Baatjes

Deidré Baatjes

From Resilient Together

Construction, Security, Cleaning Service.
Funding, and I have over come it, by telling myself that let me focus on tax, and Maintenance.
It’s in South Africa they don’t care whether your business is running or not, they only need tax.
Company Partners, makes me feel positive about the feature, I learn more about business through working together.
Picture of Themba Themba Ubisi

Themba Themba Ubisi

From TUM

Construction.
To get my company tender.
Things comes slowly you have to be patient.
It’s to stay positive.
Picture of Seeiso Alfred

Seeiso Alfred

From Budibeng Shinning Star Electrical Engineering Construction

Placing your business on the map, literally.

Taking the leap from being an employee to an entrepreneur. My family circle played a big role in overcoming this challenge, and offered support and motivation which definitely helped. It is nerve racking going from a salary to having to fend for yourself

If you dont do it, it wont get done. You are responsible and accountable to yourself to make a success of your business

I feel really positive about business if I just look at the growth of my company. SME’s are looking for growth, so you can see business owners are motivated to grow in South Africa. This makes me positive as I can help them grow while growing myself.

Picture of Armand Briers

Armand Briers

From Itheta Labs

Youth Development program in the arts, music & entertainment industry space – we develop talent in a form of platform provision through hosting events.

Financial difficulties are the biggest challenge. We still haven’t overcome that challenge, however, through passion & dedication to the cause, we march on relentlessly.

Financial stability is a super power – without the funds, you can’t reach your desired heights.

The fact that there are still Constitutions such as this, who are willing to give startup business a chance to grow, gives us hope.

Picture of Moletsane Rampai

Moletsane Rampai

From Area 1520 Entertainment

Home upstyling and custom made decoration

For me it was learning about all the legal things and finance. With help from some institutions I was able to aquire enough information to my short coming

That everyone has a talent or a gift. But it’s if you choose to share it with the world or keep it to yourself .That’s the exception .so question is who do you want to be/what can I do to make a difference?

There is a lot of growing happening already and because of heritage and culture we are no 1

Picture of Audrey Barron

Audrey Barron

From Stitched Masterpiece

About the Movement

#SAStartUpStory is a community driven movement powered by Company Partners that celebrates the resilience, creativity, and growth of South African Entrepreneurs. Every story shared helps fellow and future Entrepreneurs learn, connect, and thrive.

#SAStartUpStory
Submit Your Story!

Our Directors Share Their Stories and Insights

Share Your Story Here!
Send via WhatsApp