Entrepreneur in waiting – Jabulani Lungu

March 19, 2010

By Miliswa Sitshwele

“I love my job; there is never a dull moment there. I mean, it’s a World Heritage Site,” says Jabulani Lungu, a waiter at Maropeng’s Market Place restaurant.

His first introduction to Maropeng was through a temporary placement agency; his manager at the restaurant was so impressed with his work that he offered him a permanent position.

Just 24 years old, Lungu dropped out of school in Grade 11, because his girlfriend fell pregnant and he needed to support his new family.

“When I found out my girlfriend was pregnant I needed to act fast, so I went around from pillar to post looking for a job. The placement agency took me in and that’s how I ended up working at Maropeng.”

This mean cappuccino-maker says he’s received ample comments, and tips, from guests for his signature cappuccinos.

Described by his colleagues as a cool guy who likes to see other people happy, Lungu says he hates seeing other people sad.

“When people are sad I encourage them to share their problems with others, so that they don’t bottle their pain inside.”

Lungu enjoys working at Maropeng as the staff is friendly, welcoming and united; “We are like one big happy family,” he says.

A true entrepreneur, Lungu has also started a small business selling eggs and chicken feet, to support his new family.

While he is at work at Maropeng his cousin manages the business, which, he says, is flourishing.

In his spare time, this hard-working waiter loves to DJ at parties and events in his community, and in the next three years, he sees himself owning a restaurant in his area. He plans to study part-time to prepare himself for this.

Lungu is clearly a talented asset to Maropeng’s hospitality corps.

 

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