By Musa Mdluli

MBABANE:Shoprite Eswatini Director and Shareholder Sylva Mthethwa narrated her humble beginnings story when addressing the Manzini Crime Surge Indaba on Wednesday.

The businesswoman was born from a poor family and spent her childhood sleeping in a stick and mud house, she was invited by National Commissioner of Police Vusi Manoma Masango as a Guest Speaker, to share her life experience and the possibility of working hard and be successful without engaging in criminal activities.

Regional Administrator Chief Prince Gija was also present and,the event was held at the Mavuso Trade Centre.

“I was raised up in an environment where I was taught how to make and handle money at an early age.My mother, who was my role model, taught me lessons that have made me become the women I am today.Typically, of a lioness, she taught me how to hunt practically.She taught me the fundamentals of life and business, and just like the lioness she taught me how to survive.As an entrepreneur, I have noticed that most people know how to start a business but a true entrepreneur knows more than just starting a business.They know how to grow and sustain their business for survival,” she said.

The businesswoman then shared business advice to upcoming and aspiring entrepreneurs, Mthethwa was once crowned the Businesswoman of the Year.

“First and foremost, before you do anything you must believe in yourself.If you don’t believe in yourself no one will believe in you.Convince yourself that you can be successful despite your background.Do not listen to the negative voices outside (community, friends). For example, when starting my business from scratch I had to get a loan from the bank. Your vision should be clear and should determine your preparations. Without a vision you will not have a mission in life. Never rush your vision, plan and strategies because without a proper plan you are building a house without a foundation.I will give an example of myself, when I was a young girl, I had a dream of some day running successful business,” said the businesswoman.