Chronicle Editor
Canditar Chapanduka
Chronicle Reporter
THAMSANQA Ndlovu from Cowdray Park suburb in Bulawayo, is making a name for himself in the field of carpentry.
Inspiration from his uncle, who was a woodwork teacher, helped him identify his potential and strengths in carpentry at an early age.
The 34-year-old specialises in fitted cupboards, wardrobes, ceiling coffee tables, TV stands, headboards, and doors, among other things. His market is gradually expanding through referrals, and he supplies individuals in Bulawayo, Harare, Gweru, and even South Africa.
His journey in carpentry began when he was only nine years old, learning skills from his uncle. He then took woodwork as a practical subject in high school and passed it. However, he decided to further his studies and enrolled at Lobengula Vocational Training Centre in 2005, where he obtained a certificate in carpentry and joinery.
After becoming a qualified carpenter, Thamsanqa worked for Baobab Industries and Arusha Timbers, gaining even more managerial and leadership skills. He saved up enough money to buy machinery such as sanders, planners, and wood routers, allowing him to quit his job in 2019 and start his own carpentry workshop in his backyard.
“Being a qualified carpenter did not open any doors for me to then venture into entrepreneurship since I had no capital to start the business by buying appropriate machinery to use so I went and got employed at Baobab Industries and at Arusha Timbers where I was even groomed more and managed to gain even managerial and leadership skills,” said Thamsanqa.
Thamsanqa has employed two people and expanded his machinery with the profits from his business, allowing him to make high-quality products and work efficiently. However, starting a business was not easy, and he had to advertise his products through social media to establish a market.
In addition to his woodworking skills, Thamsanqa also possesses excellent managerial and leadership skills, which have helped him expand his business and employ other people. He is a true entrepreneur who has taken advantage of the available opportunities to grow his business.
His decision to use social media to market his products is a brilliant move, especially in today’s digital age, where social media platforms have become powerful marketing tools. Through social media, Thamsanqa has been able to reach a wider market, beyond his hometown of Bulawayo.
“The business has sustained me since I started it as I am able to take care of my family. I have bought two cars for myself and the other car is helping in transporting business materials.
“I had to advertise a few products that I had produced for the first client that I got as I made a wardrobe and a shoe rack for him. I used Facebook and Instagram to advertise and started to receive phone calls from individuals who loved my products,” said Thamsanqa.
His vision is to register his company, expand his business by producing more furniture, and supply Zimbabwe and other countries. He advises people to do what they are good at, work hard, and be focused and committed to what they love, as it pays more than working for someone else.
Thamsanqa’s success story is inspiring to many, especially those who aspire to start their own businesses. He is a true example of how one can turn their passion into a profitable venture with dedication, hard work, and determination.
His advice to children is also worth noting. It is essential for children to identify their talents and interests early on and pursue them relentlessly. Practical skills businesses, such as carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work, are just as important as academic careers, and they can also provide financial stability and independence.
Thamsanqa’s success story in carpentry is an inspiration to many, and it demonstrates that with hard work, dedication, and determination, one can turn their passion into a successful business. His vision to expand his business and supply other countries is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and ambition. -@NomqheleC
Online Reporter