Canyon helps Daisy to build legacy
It’s easy to spot Daisy Maseko in the bustling office of Mancamane Trading Enterprise – the founder and CEO of this thriving mine supply company exudes a quiet authority, but has a ready smile for everyone. Currently employing 74 people, Daisy’s life has changed dramatically from the days when she worked as a teller at Absa
“When I was growing up, I thought if I could make a change in just 20 people’s lives I would be happy,” the warm 40-year-old entrepreneur says with a chuckle. “Now I influence more than 70 people! I have the heart to help others – when God blessed me, I decided I should be a blessing to others.”
Born and bred in Delmas, Daisy received her National Diploma in Marketing from Pretoria Technikon in 1999 and immediately found a job at Absa. She moved quickly through the ranks and soon became a relationship manager for small businesses. “This taught me a lot – I could see first-hand how people developed themselves and their companies,” she says.
Although she developed her skills while an employee, studying finance and customer service through UNISA, she felt her ambitions would be best served striking out on her own. “When I learned that Kusile was focusing on black women-owned companies, I decided to take a chance,” she recalls. Leaving a secure job was a risky move, particularly with three small children. “My husband said, ‘You can’t do this – you don’t know what to do,’ she says, roaring with laughter. “But I said that I wanted to leave a legacy for my kids. I didn’t want us to be short of soap or toothpaste any more – I wanted something better.”
Starting her small business in her bedroom, Daisy relied on pension fund money as she jumped through compliance hoops to become a mine vendor, which took six months. Although she took on any job initially, she chose to focus on supplying Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to mines as there was only one other company in the area doing this, and it was white-owned.
Her relationship with Canyon Coal began in 2016, when the company was seeking an enterprise development partner. “Canyon Coal approached me and, from the get-go, they were very supportive. They knew that, as a small business, I needed reassurance – and true to their word, they have provided me with ongoing work,” she says.
“I not only provide them with PPE – I also supply them with stationery as well as signage. Thanks to them, my cash flow is more regular. They are unique in that they are always accessible – and they always pay on time! We have a relationship of trust. They are really committed to helping my small business to flourish,” she says.
Running a business is a challenge, but Daisy says she puts a premium on customer service. “I’m a straightforward, purpose-driven person. I still do all my marketing myself,” she says. “My motto is, if you want to up your game, provide the best service – and treat people with humanity!”
She frequently makes donations to the local township, helping with school uniforms and registration fees. “My mom was a domestic worker and couldn’t give me money for things like rent and Technikon fees. Coming from a disadvantaged family, I wanted something better for my kids – and for others, too,” she says passionately.
“I have learned that, when we do things on our own, we don’t succeed. It is all about grace and favour!”
