Onndwelani (18) opens own bakery in Itsani to serve sweet treats

Onndwelani Manganye, a young entrepreneur from Itsani village, recently opened his own bakery, Onndwela's Sweet House.

Growing up with a mother who was a baker inspired him to pursue this dream. From an early age, Onndwelani watched his mother create delicious treats, learning essential baking skills along the way.

After building up a reputation in the baking community for over two years, Manganye, at just 18 years of age, felt motivated to start his own business. He is now the owner of a successful bakery that specialises in homemade sweet treats, including cakes, scones, and muffins.

“The experience I gained from my mother, who baked while I was still in primary school, sparked a passion inside me. This passion led me to open my very own baking studio with the support of my parents and sister,” he said.

As a Grade 12 learner, Manganye has also hired two employees to help run the bakery. “I only bake during the weekends and sometimes during the week. It motivates me to study hard because I know I need to finish school and pursue a degree in hospitality management,” he said.

His bakery is not just a place to buy baked goods, but it also serves as a baking studio focused on pastries. However, he acknowledges that he has faced financial challenges along the way. “What I’ve learned is that every entrepreneur should be mindful of their finances and know how to spend wisely,” he said.

Date:28 September 2024

By: Thembi Siaga

Thembi Siaga started as an intern during 2021. He assisted with video photography and editing. He also produced numerous small documentaries, focusing on the Vhembe region and its people. Currently he works as a freelance journalist, covering stories in the Elim area.

Thembi studied at the Tshwane University of Technology, where he completed his diploma in Journalism in 2021.

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