Entrepreneur Florence Mosepele is on a mission to transform the cleaning industry with exceptional added value.
Mosepele is the founder and owner of the cleaning company, Cleaners On Call. With a passion for youth development and creating a platform for opportunities, Mosepele aspires to empower young people and previously disadvantaged individuals. She gives these individuals the opportunity to acquire experience and develop their skills through her business.
"From a young age, I have been a dreamer, with a vision to excel in what I do and to also create employment for other young people. When you work hard, you distinguish yourself from your competition," she says.
Mosepele had to endure the pain of not continuing with her studies after matriculating on the West Rand, as her family couldn't afford tertiary fees.
She knew that she had to start a business in order to generate income and contribute to the country's fight against poverty and unemployment.
Today, she is the owner of two successful businesses – the other being hair and beauty salon Cutting Edge Pro.
She recalls that she couldn't allow her family's financial challenges to cloud over her dream.
At the age of 23, she realised that there was a need for her to face the world of entrepreneurship after she recognised an opportunity in the cleaning sector.
She saw a gap in the market for trained cleaners who respected their jobs and a need to reshape the status quo, with professional, accredited cleaners who are just a phone call away.
"That's when the thought of Cleaners On Call was born," she says.
Her business has empowered many young and previously disadvantaged individuals who have been given the opportunity to acquire experience and develop their skills.
While facing the challenges of securing funding and resources, she strives to render professional, well-presented and efficient services.
Mosepele says that becoming an entrepreneur has taught her about the qualities she possesses that she would have never otherwise developed.
"I have learnt that I am strong, confident, focus-driven and a risk-taker. I have learnt that I have bigger dreams than I realised."
She says she is aware that there is little support for SMEs from government. "But if you're just starting out in business, don't give up. Remember, that the beginning is always the hardest. Life rewards those who work hard at it."
Moselepe, who believes that education is key for entrepreneurs, has completed a diploma and is now studying for a BCom in Accounting Science through Unisa.
She served her accounting articles with De Wets Chartered Accountants and later joined Thebe Investment Finance Department and Raizcorp.
This experience helped her understand how the corporate world works and build networks. Both of her companies employ 42 people.
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