This week we chat with talented entrepreneur, Siyamthanda Vetyeka, from Mdantsane, who is making a name for himself with his stunning cake designs, under his brand Paprika Dreams.
When and how did your cake business start?
It started about four years ago when my mom started to bake and cook for us. On Sundays, she would give away food to her close friends who ended up wanting more of the goods. She still gave away but started requesting compensation.
What inspired you to start your business?
I didn’t like what I was doing at first but due to no opportunities for young people, I had to teach myself to love this because at the time I was doing nothing. Then, as time went by, I saw that my work made people happy and that started to ignite a spark in me to do more.
How many people do you work with?
I work with my brother at the moment and sometimes my mom helps me out.
What qualifications or experience do you have?
I have no qualifications besides high school. I learned this skill from my mom and by watching videos on YouTube.
Where do you get the inspiration for your cakes?
I get my inspiration from almost everything because my way of operating is not focused on one thing only. I do sculpture cakes and buttercream cakes and I enjoy every bit of them, especially the challenging ones.
What sets you apart from other similar businesses in the area?
The improvement of my skill is what I would say is the one thing that sets me apart from other businesses. I also don’t only work with cakes, I also have food on the side, so that too plays a factor.
What are some of the challenges you have faced and how did you overcome them?
The load-shedding and water issues in my area are some of the biggest challenges I have but now we have a water tank to help.
Have you had any proud moments in your business so far?
My proudest moment was when I did my sister’s Louis Vuitton handbag cake for the first time. It was really a great and different experience.
What are some of your goals for 2023?
My goal for 2023 is to keep becoming better and better in my craft.
What advice do you have for someone who is interested in a similar line of business?
The only advice I have for a young person wanting to do this is that you must be able to sacrifice some things, but it will pay back in the end.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
We are a multi-holding business that works with multiple things. Paprika Dreams was and will always be for the people and hopefully, at the perfect time, we will get to offer our cakes to the world.
How can our readers get hold of you?
Paprika Dreams and my Facebook page as well @Siya_paprikadreams, on both platforms.
