Thembekile Mtshali, a dynamic entrepreneur originally from Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, has made a remarkable transition from a successful 18-year corporate career to founding and running iBizaWena, a flourishing personalized gifting business. Currently residing between Sandton, Gauteng, and Richards Bay, Mtshali embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience. Her journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship is a testament to her passion for unique, meaningful gifts and her dedication to creating a brand that resonates with her values and creativity.
Mtshali’s decision to pursue entrepreneurship was driven by a desire for change following a challenging personal ordeal. "I decided to take a break from an 18-year corporate life," she explains. This pivotal moment led her to focus on something she had always valued deeply—gifting. The art of giving worthwhile and unique gifts inspired her to establish iBizaWena, a venture that allowed her to channel her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit into creating personalized products that leave a lasting impression.
iBizaWena, a black female-owned business, officially commenced operations in 2022. The name "iBizaWena" is derived from a Zulu term meaning "personalized," reflecting the core ethos of the brand. The inspiration behind iBizaWena stems from Mtshali's passion for providing personalized and meaningful gifts that stand out. The business offers a wide range of unique products tailored to each customer’s desires, including engraving services on materials such as metal, leather, wood, and glass.
iBizaWena specializes in creating bespoke gifts that cater to a variety of occasions and preferences. The comprehensive services include design, branding, and custom manufacturing of items such as bags and accessories. Each product is crafted with attention to detail, ensuring that every gift is unique and memorable. Whether it's a personalized leather bag or a beautifully engraved wooden piece, iBizaWena prides itself on delivering high-quality, customized products that delight customers.
Starting iBizaWena was not without its challenges. As the sole owner, Mtshali had to juggle multiple responsibilities, including finance, customer service, and supply management. The initial phase of managing all aspects of the business single-handedly was tough. However, her dedication and determination enabled her to overcome these hurdles. She emphasizes the importance of consistency and customer satisfaction in navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. "Some days are great and some not, but remaining consistent with your outcome and customer satisfaction goes a long way," she advises aspiring entrepreneurs.
In a competitive market, staying innovative is crucial. Mtshali’s approach to maintaining the uniqueness of iBizaWena’s products involves embracing the creative input of her clients. She enjoys working with customers who have a clear vision of their desired outcomes, allowing her to create and personalize items that exceed expectations. This collaborative process not only ensures the uniqueness of each product but also builds strong relationships with clients who appreciate the bespoke nature of iBizaWena’s offerings.
One of the most significant milestones in iBizaWena’s journey was crafting and branding the MTN Executive’s Conference Gifts for their Cook-off competition in partnership with Chef Benny in 2022. This international event, which hosted MTN Executives from around the globe, was a notable achievement for Mtshali and her team. The success of the event, where Team Qatar took the prize, highlighted iBizaWena’s ability to deliver exceptional products for prestigious occasions.
Mtshali’s entrepreneurial journey is filled with valuable lessons. Her advice to those looking to start their own business is simple yet profound: "Some days are great and some not, but remaining consistent with your outcome and customer satisfaction goes a long way." Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, creativity, and a customer-centric approach in building a successful business.
We can all agree that Thembekile Mtshali’s transition from the corporate world to founding iBizaWena is a story of resilience, creativity, and passion. Through her dedication to providing unique and personalized gifts, she has built a brand that stands out in the competitive market. iBizaWena continues to thrive under her leadership, offering products that bring joy and meaning to every occasion.