A true champion is not someone who never fails but someone who never quits. That is the mantra driving Lunga Khumalo, the visionary behind CutterzOnline Shop, a thriving Eswatini business that started with a simple ambition and a tiny investment.
Khumalo launched CutterzOnlineShop in October 2016. The business deals broadly with footwear, focusing specifically on the latest trendy sneakers. Occasionally, they also supply perfume based on client orders. This digital-first model is simple, clients send a picture of their desired product, pay a deposit upfront and he arranges timely delivery when the stock arrives.
Western influence inspiring local quality
His vision is monumental. He aims to expand the business, establish a prominent working structure and achieve full registration at the Ministry of Commerce. His mission is built on providing quality at affordable prices, a philosophy heavily influenced by the high standards of the western world.
“I want to ensure that emaSwati are getting the supply they need” Khumalo explains. He is also strategically using his profit to investigate lucrative sectors for further investment creating multi-businesses. This ambitious plan will ultimately create abundant job opportunities, a key focus for this socially conscious entrepreneur.
The grit that beat the critics
The beginning was not glamorous. Khumalo invested his entire first tertiary living allowance and some personal assets, including his laptop. The idea was initially a laughing stock met with critics and mockery. Yet Khumalo had faith that his business would succeed, thanks in part to an entrepreneurship module he took during his academic journey.
He resisted the negativity and the rewards are clear. CutterzOnlineShop is now doing vastly well, gaining popularity countrywide, with almost 19 000 followers on Facebook. The number of orders and clients increases daily, a testament to his tenacity and commitment.
Leadership driven by ethics and service
Khumalo describes himself as a leader driven by morals and ethics, a dreamer enthusiastic about a better tomorrow. He spends ample time brainstorming new ideas and strategies for implementation. Above all, he is amicable, hardworking, encouraging and a good problem solver.
A crucial part of his success is his focus on the client relationship. He maintains steady communication and ensures all services are delivered timely. “That is the key technique I use to keep the jovial atmosphere,” he says “it creates a healthy relationship between us”.
The positive feedback from satisfied clients fuels his work, leading to the exertion of positive energy. He also mingles with other entrepreneurs where they empower, encourage and equip each other with effective skills for daily business operations.
Giving back and looking ahead
His journey is deeply personal. Raised in an impoverished family, he was driven by the willingness for a better standard of living.
He recognised that economic growth was the only way to eradicate poverty and create a conducive healthy lifestyle.
His initial purpose was simply to relieve his mother financially during his university days, but the business took a giant step, transforming his entire family. He attributes his strength and wisdom to God.
Beyond business, he gives back to the less privileged, purchasing necessities like school shoes and bags to motivate children in their academics.
Khumalo is currently engrossed in Peter Thiel and Black Masters’ book ‘Zero to One,’ which perfectly mirrors his own story moving from nothing to something.
His message to aspiring executives and directors is powerful: “Everything is possible, it only requires determination, focus and faith”. He reminds them that stumbling blocks like critics and competition are inevitable, but they must train themselves to be resistant and overcome challenges positively because negativity can render all plans in vain. Winners are those who never quit.
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