5. Xolani Mashaya & The Avenue Internet Cafe
Xolani’s Avenue Café is as busy as ever. During our visit, the constant flow of customers made it necessary to pause our conversation multiple times so he could attend to them. While the cold weather outside was biting, the café offered a warm, inviting space filled with community energy.
According to Xolani, the services side of his business has seen significant growth. Although demand for access to the internet through the café has declined, there has been a marked increase in inquiries related to compliance services. With regulations constantly evolving, Xolani has positioned himself as a go-to resource for up-to-date compliance support in the community.
Financially, the business is on a healthy trajectory. Xolani attributes this improvement to the financial recommendations he received during the GE programme, particularly those that helped him better understand and manage his monthly financial statements. He expressed confidence in his current financial systems and is now focused on refining his overall business model.
Looking ahead, Xolani is considering a strategic expansion—not by opening another physical location, but by launching an online café to deliver services digitally. This move aims to reduce overhead costs while tapping into a broader customer base. His thoughtful, data-informed approach is a clear reflection of his growth as a business leader.