ACTOM has officially launched Siyakhona Differently (Pty) Ltd, a new enterprise development initiative aimed at demonstrating that meaningful employment and entrepreneurshipopportunities should be accessible to everyone.
Established at the company's Knights facility in Germiston, the laundromat business is operated by differently abled entrepreneurs and forms part of ACTOM's ongoing commitment to creating sustainable opportunitiesthrough skills development and inclusive economic participation.
The initiative was developed after ACTOM identified a need to extend its enterprise development programmes to a group that often faces significant barriers to employment. Ratherthan viewing disability as a limitation, the company chose to invest in individuals with the skills, determination and ambition to build successful businesses when provided the right support.
As part of the programme, 20 candidates were selected to complete an accredited venture creation course focused on entrepreneurship, business management, customer service,financial management and procurement. Following the training, two participants were selected to establish and lead the laundromat business based on their performance, commitment and vision for the future.
Beyond the training programme, ACTOM supported the participants through the formal businesses registration process and provided practical mentorship and guidance to help themnavigate the administrative, legal and operational requirements of establishing a sustainable enterprise.
To support the venture, ACTOM also transformed an underutilised area at its Knights facility into a fully operational laundromat. The premises were redesigned to ensure accessibility,while specialised equipment was purchased and installed. Additional practical training was also provided to equip the entrepreneurs with the skills needed to operate the business efficiently. The business currently provides laundry services for ACTOM’s PersonalProtective Equipment (PPE) and workwear, with plans to expand its services to employees’ personal laundry as well as external customers over time.
“Siyakhona Differently is about recognising potential beyond disability,” says Sylvester Makamu, Group Executive Director at ACTOM. “Too often, differently abled people arejudged by their physical limitations rather than recognised for their capabilities and potential. We wanted to create an opportunity that allows talented individuals to build a sustainable business, earn an income and demonstrate what is possible when barriersare removed.”
While ACTOM will continue to support the enterprise during its start-up phase, the long-term objective is for the business to become financially self-sustaining. The initiativecurrently supports three employees, including the two business directors and an additional staff member employed by the enterprise.
Makamu concludes, “We hope this initiative encourages other organisations to be inclusive, look beyond disability, and recognise the value that differently abled people canbring to the workplace and the broader economy. Creating opportunities is about more than meeting obligations; it is about restoring dignity, unlocking potential and building businesses that can make a lasting difference in people’s lives.”