Ayabulela Mabinda is the director of an EL-based small business called Black Race Sneaker Wash.
What services do you offer?
We offer sneaker wash and footwear treatment, shoe colour restoration, upholstery and carpet cleaning.
When and how did your business start? What inspired you?
I started the sneaker cleaning business in 2019, and it was mostly pushed by not getting employment after having acquired a diploma in human resources management. The lack of employment forced me to think out of the box. I had to look deeper in myself, find what I love doing and turn it into a business. I had already been a sneaker collector growing up with the influence of being a big follower of hip-hop culture.
Are there any special cleaning techniques that you use?
Sneaker cleaning is a very open industry with no rules. I do have techniques but most come from me thinking on my toes, not following rules.
How many people do you work with?
In the past four years I have employed 20 people, but I usually work with five people at a time.
What skills are important for someone to do this type of work?
You need to love sneakers and consume a lot of knowledge regarding caring for them, then you must develop yourself in the customer space.
Do you have any sneaker cleaning tips to share with our readers?
It’s difficult as we have a lot of different shoes. Avoid water as it damages shoes.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I own my time. I surprise myself after every challenge. Self-employment and entrepreneurship have opened me to a lot of challenges that have developed my character.
How do you fund your business?
Most of the funding is re-investment of profits as I don’t have any investors.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced and how did you overcome it?
It was security and making sure no sneakers got lost. It was the first thing I invested in.
What are some of your goals for this year and going forward?
My short-term goal is to expand the team to fight unemployment and add more footwear-related services. My long-term goal is to open more branches around East London and beyond.
What tips do you have for someone starting a similar business?
Make sure you study any field you want to tap into. Never be average at anything you claim to love.
How can our readers get hold of you? (Contact details and social media)
Facebook: Ayerz Mabinda/ Black Race Sneaker Wash;
Instagram: @ayerzmabinda91/ @BlackRace_sneakerwash;
Twitter: @ayerz_mabinda/ @BrSneaker_Wash
