South Africa: Phumeza Riah Mguzulu

Phumeza Riah Mguzulu’s story is one of confidence gained, livelihoods strengthened, and steady business growth through the Sunrise Campaign’s life skills and entrepreneurship training. Through her business, PMGUS Tradings, she has built a diversified enterprise offering baking, catering, sewing, printing, and church uniforms, supported by strong financial management, record‑keeping, and customer‑focused quality and packaging. The programme has helped her grow her income, expand her product range, hire part‑time support, and improve her family’s wellbeing, enabling her to provide for her children and earn greater respect in her community. Despite challenges such as cash‑flow constraints and uncollected orders, Phumeza has adapted by introducing deposits, improving pricing, and strengthening marketing through social media and word of mouth. With clear plans to invest in equipment, skills development, and new markets such as schools and organisations, her journey demonstrates how gender‑inclusive local economic development can translate directly into dignity, resilience, and lasting economic empowerment.