Thandeka Dlamini

Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) latest report recorded their Quarterly Labor Force Survey which revealed the country’s unemployment rate at 30.1% higher.

According to stats SA employment statistics decreased after unemployment figures increased to 7.1 million. Stats SA reported that largest employment decreases were observed in the formal sector. The youth (aged 15-34) being the most affected and accounting for 63.3% of the total number of unemployed individuals.

Gomolemo Zituta, 18, founder of Suduka Café which produces cakes, biscuits, scones and muffins. The Rustenburg based business owner said her love for baking is what propelled her to start her baking business.

“As young as I am, I knew I wanted to make something out of myself,” Zituta said.

Gomolemo said the lockdown put a strain on everything, and many people were losing their jobs. She also explained that she had to work really hard to keep her business going.

The young founder of Suduka Café said she did not want to be included on the statistics of unemployed youth.

“The journey had challenges but with the support from my family I had to keep pushing. It is not easy but hard, you need to trust the process,” said Gomolemo.

Gomolemo’s aunt, Tebogo Zituta said their daughter took everything they taught her and turned it into a business.

“Gomolemo bakes and deliver around the North West and her clients are always pleased. The youth needs to understand the importance of having their own businesses. They can start small and grow them into bigger businesses,” said Tebogo.

Picture: Gomolemo Zituta