This week, we profile Bonke Monono, owner of SirB Foods & Gaming Zone, a one-of-a-kind entertainment and food establishment.
Q: What service do you provide?
A: We offer fast food and PlayStation gaming in the same location.
Q: How and when did you decide to start your businesses?
A: I have always had an entrepreneurial mind since way back. I am a co-founder of Duish Co, a clothing company that owns Andikuva Noba Uthini, Duish, and Strong Character clothing brands. I have been dreaming of a food and gaming business for a while until late last year, when I decided to stop dreaming and make it happen. It was not an easy decision to make as I had a full-time job. I made a call to resign and focus on starting the business. I resigned in November and started opening doors at SirB Food and Gaming Zone in January 2024.
Q: Which type of food do you make?
A: The plan is to grow to a fully operational kitchen that sells different types of food that speak to locals and visitors. I have started with a few items and have slowly added items as we go. I currently offer hot chips, wings & chips, pork & chips, burger & chips, amagwinya (fat cakes), russians, kota, umncindo (tomato gravy with a twist), and bottles of Ginger.
Q: What type of games do you offer?
A: We offer PlayStation games. We have Fifa, Unchartered, Mortal Kombart, UFC and many more.
Q: Who is the target market for gaming?
A: Gaming targets all ages. It caters to young children who do not have the luxury of owning such games but would love to have access to them. It also caters to older gamers who love gaming and competing. It also is a therapeutic session for those who need to unwind after a long day.
Q: Do you work alone?
A: I have two employees assisting in running both businesses.
Q: Where do you find your inspiration to keep both businesses running?
A: Family. Knowing I must provide for my family keeps me alert. Knowing that I am working on something that I can one day hand over to my children inspires me more.
Q: Are there any challenges that you have encountered in your businesses, and how do you overcome them?
A: Starting a business is never easy. In the early days, you might not make any sales but you must wake up and get ready on the next day. And the next, and the next. Consistency is key.
Q: What makes what you do unique?
A: It is rare to find a place where you can find good quality fast food at affordable prices. I guarantee the best quality and affordable costs.
Q: What are some of the goals or future plans that you have for your business?
A: My immediate goal is to make the brand seen and grow it to more of them around BCMM and outside.
Q: What advice do you have for someone who is also interested in starting their own business?
A: In most cases, people think running your own business means you have time. When you start out, you must work twice as hard. Believe in yourself otherwise all the negative comments will make you doubt yourself.
Q: Is there anything else you would like our readers to know?
A: Come by when you have time and you will not regret it.
Q: Where can our readers find you? (contact details/social media)
A: Facebook- Bonke Monono, Google: SirB Foods and Gaming Zone, Cell: 083-968-2828, Physical address: 728 NU 15 Mdantsane
