Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams, recently visited Gqeberha, offering renewed hope to entrepreneurs, including Kariega-based small business owner, Natuscha November, who runs a small photography company.
During her visit to the Masifunde Kasi Economy Hub in Walmer, Ndabeni-Abrahams highlighted the importance of tangible support for township economies, stating that “true development means being present, actively engaging, and co-creating solutions with those at the heart of the township economy.”
The Minister’s sentiments resonated deeply with business owners like November, who emphasised that “township economies are the heart of South Africa’s economy because all services are locally provided and supported, ensuring that money circulates within our communities.”
November, who owns and manages Natuscha November Photography, believes that small businesses play an instrumental role in fostering economic growth at a grassroots level.
“My business contributes to our local economy by encouraging economic grit and the support of local consumption, keeping money circulating within our communities,” she explained.
She further noted that small community economies serve as an inspiration for her business approach, driving her to find innovative ways to encourage people to support local enterprises.
However, despite the positive impact of small businesses, challenges remain. November pointed out that infrastructure shortcomings often complicate her work as a photographer.
“One of the main challenges I face as a small business owner is that the quality of our infrastructure is not up to standard for photoshoots. Clients often have to pay additional fees and travel far to access proper locations, which can be impracticable and expensive for them,” she said.
Government-backed initiatives have made a difference for November, particularly the free Digital Photography course she completed through the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa.
“This course refined my skills as a photographer, and the certification I received is now an official skill I can add to my curriculum vitae,” she shared.
Despite the progress, November called for stronger community-based support structures.
“I think I speak for every small business owner when I say we need networking opportunities to connect with other businesses and potential customers, which can help us grow,” she expressed.
She also voiced concern over the lack of readily available opportunities for entrepreneurs.
“There aren’t many chances for us to advance and improve ourselves within our communities. And when entrepreneurship workshops are hosted, we usually find out days after the event has already taken place.”
Looking ahead, November remains optimistic about initiatives such as the Integrated Public Transport System (IPTS), believing it will positively impact businesses like hers.
“Sometimes last-minute transportation problems arise with no immediate solution. Knowing that I could just hop on to one of the buses and get where I need to be in time is a very comforting thought,” she remarked.
When asked about her long-term aspirations for her business, November shared a vision of expansion and community empowerment.
“I hope for my company to become so well-known and successful that I can later employ young people from our communities, train them in photography, and develop entrepreneurship among them. This would not only help decrease the unemployment rate but also equip our future generations with the necessary skills and knowledge,” she said.
November, who is also a full-time law student and model, emphasised the importance of community.
“I do a lot of charity work, and I have realised that that’s one of the most important things – always to give back in your little corner, in the smallest way you know how, even if you have your own challenges. People, community matters,” the 24-year-old concluded.
In a public engagement held by the minister at the Nangoza Jebe Hall, NMBM Executive Mayor said, “As the municipality, we have taken a resolution that from November 2024 until the end of the term, our focus will be growing local economy. We also want to assure the residents that we will deal with the issue of crime, because businesses cannot thrive in an environment that is infested with crime.”
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