QBS LBNSS, a small business established in 2008 whose service portfolio includes construction, landscaping, cleaning, catering and transportation, has set goals which it aims to accomplish in 2016. Transform SA Online’s Joy Kunene had the rare privilege of interviewing the very busy owner, Tshidi Linda Jacobs, 52, in Dobsonville, Soweto. Jacobs’ busy schedule means she hardly has time for media engagements.
TSAO: What can you point out as something that makes your business unique?
What I do consider distinct in the business is that is the diversity of its services. Besides, we are very dynamic and are not restricted when dealing with customers. For instance, our catering services services funerals, weddings and events.
You also have to note that cleaning, construction and catering need totally different approaches. They are like chalk and cheese. Catering is very delicate. Thus, I make good food and hygiene is fundamental.
When starting your business, didn’t information that many businesses do not go beyond one year since establishment put you off? If not, why did you choose to be an entrepreneur?
TLJ: To address both questions. I am someone who sees a silver lining out of challenges, I choose to see them more as opportunities than obstacles. In addition, I am someone who loves being independent. I hold the view that, no matter one’s circumstances, we all have equal abilities. It just a matter of how we utilise them to take advantages of available opportunities. Overall, having my own business makes me feel empowered and important because I contribute to economic growth, in some way. I head the other day the Minister of Small Business, Lindiwe Zulu stating that small businesses are drivers of the world economy. We do have 8 full time workers.
TSAO: What are the future plans for the business?
TLJ: As someone who wants to see the women being given more access to economic opportunities, I want to inspire other black women to venture into construction, which still remains decidedly a male-dominated field. It’s sad that where some women still feel intimidated to enter into it.
TSAO: Any qualifications or credentials related to what any of the services which the business provides?
TLJ: Yes, I do have relevant qualifications in some way related to the business. That would be a Level 4 in the supervision of construction processes. The other is something much unrelated – a certificate in nursing.
TSAO: The certificate in nursing part is what is odd for someone who is into construction related services. Why did you acquire it, yet end up in construction?
TLJ: I worked for more than 12 years as a nurse, which was fulfilling. Sincerely, I enjoyed helping the sick and vulnerable. But then a part of me, deep down my heart, wanted to be self-employed and contribute to the country’s economic development.
TSA: In a word, could you tell us about yourself?
TLJ: I consider myself to be at my prime, when I should be accomplishing my goals, which I am trying my utmost to do. I am a parent of one, with three grandchildren. I am church goer and rarely attend social functions. In other words, I breathe, eat and sleep my business all the time. Seeing it succeed is what fuels my passion.
TSAO: There is a young woman in Dobsonville who has just passed her matric, and sees you as a role model. What can you tell her if she wants to follow in your footsteps?
TLJ: Be ambitious but at the same time also be realistic. Set goals that are achievable. Have an open mind, do not run away from the challenges, they are inevitable in any business, let alone in construction. Do not abandon your precious dream, when times are tough. You may never know. It could be a life changing breakthrough is around the corner. God bless South Africa! Thank you.
Compiled by Joy Kunene; edited by Transform SA Online Editor
