In the pursuit of financial freedom and generational wealth, a young Lazola Kubukeli received priceless wisdom from his grandfather, who was an estate agent at the time, hailing from the town of Mthatha. This guidance became the cornerstone of his entrepreneurial journey.
At the tender age of 22, with a future brimming with potential, Lazola took his grandfather's advice to heart. Recognizing the security and long-term potential of property investment, he decided to embark on a path that would forever alter the course of his life. While studying for his Quantity Surveying BTech, Lazola wasted no time and enrolled in a market valuation course.
Armed with knowledge and determination, he was ready to take his first step into the world of real estate. In 2010, he made the leap and invested in his very first property in Witbank, Mpumalanga, giving birth to JKN Development Consultants. From that moment, he refused to look back, steadily growing his real estate portfolio.
Today, thirteen years later, Lazola's holdings are valued at an impressive R20 million. His portfolio includes a diverse range of assets, from freehold residential properties to vacant land and even a mixed-use four-storey building, the Grace Villas in East London. The name pays tribute to his late grandmother, Grace Gxaweni. Originally housing nine apartments, Lazola and his team converted it into 30 apartments, featuring a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units.
In June 2023, Lazola mentioned that they were on the brink of achieving a remarkable milestone. With just four more units to go, he will reach the significant feat of having 100 rental units under his belt. This is a testament to the dreams he dared to chase and the unwavering tenacity that propelled him to this point.
In an interview with Property Wheel, he shared, “One thing that I have learned throughout the years, and that I continue to carry with me, is that teamwork makes a successful development. You need to have a good team while giving it your best shot.” Lazola's story is a shining example of the power of dreams and tenacity in the world of entrepreneurship.
It illustrates how one young man's decision to heed his grandfather's advice led to the creation of a thriving business empire rooted in property investment. Lazola Kubukeli's journey is a source of motivation and encouragement for all aspiring entrepreneurs, reminding us that with determination and a clear vision, even the most ambitious dreams can be turned into reality.
Article by: Banele Moyi