Dusty streets to entrepreneur

FOCUSED: YOUNG MAN FROM THE TOWNSHIP DOESN'T LET HIS PAST DEFINE HIM

- Thando Nondywana

Growing up in the dusty streets of Orange Farm, Lerato Sello's journey from a small township boy to an entrepreneur has been about more than just personal success.

The 26-year-old who is building businesses that impact his community, has proven that the most challenging circumstances can fuel the greatest dreams.

"I've always believed that no dream is too big, no matter where you come from," he says, as he welcomes us to his home.

Sello's environment was marked by a lack of resources, yet it was in this very environment that his entrepreneurial spirit was nurtured.

"Watching my mother run a tavern out of our home showed me how much grit and determination it takes to make something from nothing," he recalled.

"It was a popular hangout spot, always full and loud, especially on weekends, but we knew that this was how we survived our bread and butter – and until much later when we were able to help more with the business, we got an understanding of the hard work and sacrifice," he added.

Despite the hardships, he found his passion early on in the creative arts, which was sparked during his involvement in local afternoon programmes that kept kids off the streets.