Lessons from a Legend

January 14, 2020 • Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes

 A Tribute to Dr Richard MaponyaIssue: 13-17 Jan 2020A pioneer, trailblazer and dubbed the Father of Black Business, business icon Dr Richard Maponya (pictured above with Vusi Thembekwayo) died last week at the age of 99.

Dr Maponya’s business career began in the retail sector in the 1950s when he and his wife Marina opened a milk distribution company in Soweto. The couple expanded their business empire to include interests in retail, automotive, filling stations and property development. 

Dr Maponya will be remembered for many things, but perhaps most for his love of people. One of the greatest lessons he shared was on the importance of respecting people, irrespective of what class they belong to.“People were just people to me…“I looked at people as people, not as numbers.

When I meet with you, when you come into my business place, I will ask you for your name, if you come again, I will welcome you as Mr So and So.”Hamba kahle Dr Maponya. We salute you.

Tip of the week

Build relationships through networking.

“Through networking, you can find possible mentors who can open business opportunities for you and make recommendations.” -

 Emmanuel Bonoko, founder of EBonoko Holdings, a media consulting, public relations and events company. 

Support Networks to Join

We are launching something exciting this week - a series on business networks, incubation hubs and support services every entrepreneur should join. Find out what each has to offer entrepreneurs, the costs involved and how to join to be their next success story.  

- Township Entrepreneurs Alliance (Township-based entrepreneurs)- Riversands Incubation Hub (All)

- AlphaCode Incubate (Tech entrepreneurs)

- Tshimologong Precinct (Developers, entrepreneurs and innovators)

- FinFind (Finance seekers)

- Youth Ideas Development Tech Program (ICT entrepreneurs)

- Entreprenerdy (All)

Are you a part of a support network? Tell us about your experience – email us at

Have An Answer? 

“Hi, I started my own coffin and casket manufacturing business almost a year ago and want to expand. Where can I go to get funding for a woman-based business to uplift my community by employing and training?”

Here’s a list of stories others are reading on the website: South African Women Who Made Major Moves in 2019