Nzhelele Rabali resident Rilwele Mukatuni (28) has turned limited job prospects into an opportunity to build his own businesses in Limpopo.

Facing high unemployment after completing school, Mukatuni chose to start his own venture rather than wait for formal employment. In 2021, he launched Double M Auto Repairs in Polokwane using savings from his previous job.

“The scarcity of job opportunities made me want to become an entrepreneur. This business keeps me away from the streets. A lot of young people are struggling because unemployment is high,” he said.

After completing Grade 12 at Miriyavhavha Technical Secondary School in 2016, Mukatuni furthered his studies at Capricorn College. He gained practical experience by volunteering at One Stop Auto Shop in Polokwane, training at Columbus Stainless in Middelburg and working at Car Service City in Thohoyandou.

His business focuses mainly on Volkswagen and Audi vehicles, offering services such as repairs, spray painting and vehicle restoration. He said customer referrals have contributed to the growth of the business.

Despite this progress, Mukatuni said running a business comes with challenges.

“Some clients do not pay on time, and sometimes people take you for granted because you are young,” he said.

He currently employs one person and plans to expand into a fully operational workshop that can serve more clients and create additional jobs.

Mukatuni has also diversified his work by launching a second company, Double M Constructions and Projects, as part of his efforts to grow his income streams and broaden his impact.

His journey reflects how some young people in Limpopo are turning to entrepreneurship in response to limited employment opportunities.