From Selling Atchar to Selling Cars: Woman Gets Dream Job

A Story of Hope and Hard Work

Tlangelani Pearl Mamba, 38, from Thulamahashi in Mpumalanga, went through a very hard time. She lost her grandmother and other important things in 2020. She felt very sad and depressed. But she did not give up. She started selling homemade atchar from a roadside stall. This helped her heal and also taught her how to sell.

How Selling Atchar Helped Her Get a Car Job

Mamba had no experience selling cars. But she spent weekends selling atchar at Kyalami Corner. She learned how to talk to customers, understand what they need, and build good relationships. In August last year, she went to a car dealership in Boksburg to ask for a job. She told them she was not qualified, but she also told them she sold atchar. The dealership saw her potential. They said, "If you can sell atchar, you can definitely sell cars." They hired her as a car sales executive.

Balancing Two Jobs

Mamba now sells cars during the week and atchar on weekends. She asked the dealership if she could keep selling atchar on weekends, and they agreed. In December, she became one of the top salespeople at the dealership. She says selling atchar is not just about making money. It helps her connect with her late grandmother and heal from her loss.

Tips for Job Seekers

• Any skill you learn, even from a small business, can help you get a job.
• Be honest about your experience and show your willingness to learn.
• Never give up, even when things are hard.

Mamba's story shows that with hard work and the right attitude, you can turn your life around.

This article was originally published on Sowetan.