HEROES ON BIKES
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent national lockdown we have seen numerous micro businesses come to life. From Khayelitsha in the Western Cape to Kagiso in Gauteng, Qhubeka bicycle beneficiaries are using their bicycles to build new businesses delivering groceries, take-aways and medication.
Qhubeka has also experienced an unprecedented increase in requests for bicycles.
These businesses are particularly well adapted to the new “normal”. It provides community members with access to basic necessities without the risk of being exposed to the virus.
Qhubeka is partnering with key bicycle related Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in South Africa, Tour de France, Western Cape Government Department of Transport and Public Works, IRONMAN Foundation and individual donors from all over the world to support projects to put more of these community heroes on bicycles.
LETAH MHLONGO
Letah, a 22 year old student from Limpopo, is one of these “Heroes on Bikes”.
“I started a hustle in the village, my little sister makes kotas, I deliver. It’s booming I’m happy ” – @letahmhlongo via Twitter
Letah started a small business in her village together with her younger sister who earned the Qhubeka bicycle in 2018 through a Qhubeka learn-to-earn programme at her school.
Although their favourite food is lasagne, they are making kotas at home and then delivering them using their Qhubeka bicycle.
The duo receives about 35 orders a day with the delivery distance being as far as 5 km (3 mi) from home.
Their next goal is to grow the business by opening a franchise.
HELP US PUT MORE “HEROES ON BIKES”
We have been experiencing an unprecedented increase in requests for bicycles recently. This includes a request for five bicycles from Letah to grow her business. We need your help to put more of these community heroes on bicycles.
CLICK HERE to help us put more “Heroes on Bikes”