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The journey of entrepreneur Ntokozo ‘Melo’ Ntleko’s vision to transform shoe cleaning into an art
By Raine St.Claire
In 2016, Melo embarked on her entrepreneurial journey with the launch of Takkie Wash SA, driven by the need to supplement her income while managing the dual responsibilities of studying and waitressing. As the financial responsibility of a car added to the challenges, Melo began scrubbing and rubbing shoes in her apartment, quickly gaining recognition and a dedicated following on Instagram.
Revitalising footwear, one pair at a time
Guided by her fervour for shoe care and the mission of providing professional care to make shoes last longer, Takkie Wash SA has flourished under Melo’s leadership since July 2018, operating seamlessly from the Musgrave premises in KZN. The business excels in a deep cleaning service. And for shoes demanding extra attention, there is a refurbishment option available, including colour restoration and rubber re-whitening services that caters to various materials, including sneakers and suede.
Melo’s strategic vision involves consistent reinvestment in the business, resulting in the successful opening of a second branch in uMhlanga four years after the inception of the Musgrave store. Through research and experimentation, Melo has developed her own specific method for cleaning shoes.
Currently employing a team of 11 specialists, she underscores the distinctive personality and sentimental value that shoes hold, influencing her proprietary cleaning method developed through thorough research and experimentation.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://www.topbusinesswomen.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/EmpowHER-resized.jpg” alt=”Winner of the 2023 Topco EmpowHER Entrepreneur award” title_text=”EmpowHER resized” admin_label=”Banner” _builder_version=”4.23.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Second Section” _builder_version=”4.23.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]
“The shoes we clean carry memories of where and when they were bought, where they’ve been worn, and how they’ve been walked in. We feel all of that when we clean them! “The best part of our job is seeing the delighted look on our customers’ faces when they are reunited with their spotlessly clean shoes,” she adds.
From humble beginnings to moving onwards and upwards
The commitment to delivering a rejuvenating “new shoe” experience is not only a philosophy but a reality reflected in the expanded services of Takkie Wash SA. Beyond cleaning, the business now offers lace sales, shoe repairs involving stitches and patches, and heel repairs.
Operating seven days a week for convenient drop-off and pick-up, the standard turnaround time is typically two to three days, with the added convenience of SMS notifications for customers, creating a consistently gratifying experience and leaving clients with impeccably clean shoes.
Starting from a side hustle to owning 3 branches in the KZN area, Melo has big plans to franchise her brand. “The goal is to now enter the Gauteng region” she enthusiastically shared.
The importance of recognition
Following her 2023 Topco EmpowHER Entrepreneur award, here is what this inspiring young woman contributed:
“Recognition matters! What Standard Bank Group and Topco Media have done is to recognise and validate my hardwork and has given me more confidence and connections to manoeuvre through this [economic hoax of an] economy. I am happy and exactly where I need to be. Nokuthula Khwela Don’t stop. Keep going. This is amazing. Thank you!”
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