Tell us about a bit about yourself and your background.
My name is Imelda Beukes and I am originally from Upington. I am based in Kathu now for the past 5 years with a passion for catering and cleaning. One would say I am domesticated. The business is already 8 years old with a few projects done.

At what stage in your life did you decide to get into business?
At a mature stage, as I had other priorities in my life that I focused on first. I have always loved to bake and cook for my family and that made me realise to do this as a business to generate an income from it.

What sets your business apart from other businesses in your industry?
We believe in fresh foods/products that we use as well as being cost effective so that everyone can afford our products. Our cleaning side also strive to give speedy and quality services with the client’s needs a priority.

What has been your driving force as an entrepreneur?
The fact that I need to provide for my family and the passion that I have for my services and skills.

How did you come up with the name for your company? How easy or difficult was it?
It was quite easy as the name derives from my name… Imelda

What kind of culture exists in your organisation, and how did you establish it?
A culture of quality and working hard towards our goals and to make things happen. We also believe in the hard work will pay off.

What does your business do? What products or services do you offer?
We offer catering and cleaning services. We also do supply chain services which accommodate majority of supplying different products.

How has being an entrepreneur affected your life?
It has been difficult and satisfying at the same time. I have to work extra hard and long hours, but it is great to see how something grows from scratch and that it is all my effort.

It is difficult to get business and to be visible, but again the whole process made me grown on a personal and profession level.

Would you change anything in terms of your journey in business?
No, I would not change anything. Everything in my journey happened for a positive reason.

How do you manage the balance of being an entrepreneur?
I have taught myself to switch off and revive myself at some point during the week or month. I set time aside for myself and my family as that is the most important at the end of the day.

What motivates you every day?
The fact that I believe in myself and wants to make the business succeed. I also want to leave a legacy for my children, something to be proud of.

What is your vision in business? What is your mission?
Our vision –  To have a positive outlook at life and in the business sector.

To provide the highest quality service in all of the provinces in South Africa.

Our mission
To engage with the different government departments and private clients.
Continuous upskilling our workforce to stay market compatible and cost effective.
Our products and services to be our clients’ first choice.

What are your values in your business?
Efficient services
Transparency
Effectiveness
Honest approach

How do you define success in business?
To be able to grow the company to a sustainable, profitable business.
Also to make that positive impact in people’s lives and at the end of the day to be able to employ people.

Do you believe that entrepreneurs are born or made and why?
Entrepreneurs are born and others not. I think it all depends on how badly you want something. If you work hard then you will definitely reap the rewards.

What is your favourite thing you like about being an entrepreneur?
Being my boss, being able to manage my own time. Also, starting something that I can call my own.

What has been your greatest achievement in business?
We worked for a variety schools, private and government departments. The working relationships that we have build so far.

Could you please give us links to your business?
We do not have any as yet.

Are you an entrepreneur based in Kathu? Would you like to be interviewed?
Get in touch with us at Kathu at Kathubiz dot coza